Mode at Rowan--even better in real life

Sometimes you just don't know how a thing is going to be until you see it. When the Mode at Rowan book came out, I was all about this blue cardigan.  Maybe it's just I am so entranced by the model, but honestly, I thought this was going to be the standout piece of the show.  It wasn't.  Looks great on her, as I said, she is stunning, but on the rest of us, not so much. 

These two, however, were amazing on everyone.  The Cowl Cardigan, which I couldn't figure out and couldn't imagine wearing turned out to be a garments I couldn't take off.  Both days. Same for everyone else who tried it on.  It's lovely. Great shape, beautiful drape--and that built in cowl I couldn't figure out was wonderful  I don't know what it is about it, but I love it. Sometimes love is like that.  Don't try to figure out why it works, just go with it.

The other piece that was much more fabulous in real life than in the pictures is the Sleeveless Jacket.  When Mary and I pulled it out of the box, we both said, "Ginni!"  Its long clean lines are a perfect match for hers. It did indeed look wonderful on Ginni with her tall black boots and gray blouse.  But here's the interesting thing.  It also looked wonderful on Paula B. who's not tall.  The ribbed fabric and deep v-neck give the garment long vertical lines making it  a great layering piece that's flattering to everyone.

Both the Cowl Cardigan and the Sleeveless Jacket are wonderful third layer pieces that are at once relaxed and elegant and can really elevate your wardrobe. Top jeans and a simple shirt with one of these layering pieces and suddenly it's an outfit that makes you look and feel really pulled together. 

I am excited about both of these pieces, and while they are a lot of knitting, they are so worth it because they're classic and timeless.  These are the kind of quality pieces you will reach for again and again, year after year, and they'll always make you feel fabulous. We don't mind putting the time, money, and effort into a knitting these pieces because they are an investment, and we get pleasure from both wearing them and knitting them.

I invite you to knit the Cowl Cardigan along with me or the Sleeveless Jacket with and Ginni. We're both probably going to knit both garments, so all you have to do is decide which one you want to knit first and join the fun. The Cowl Cardigan kicks off Friday, December 6th.  

I look forward to seeing you in the shop and around the table.  You are always welcome here. ~Ellen

Back to 12 November 2019 newsletter