Autumn 2012 Accessories: Day 4

Today's installment of my accessories collection introduction is quite special and close to my heart. Almost two years ago to the day, I blogged about my very first foray into design - my Rustic Elegance shawl. I was so excited about the piece but never wrote up the pattern. (I should note that I still wear that piece all the time as a cowl.) It's been pinned and repinned quite a bit on Pinterest, which surprised and pleased me since it was far removed from any response I ever expected from that first design effort.

Fast forward to today, and my introduction of the retooled Rustically Elegant Shoulder Warmer. This piece will also be published a little later this fall in an F+W Media booklet. It was the call for that booklet, plus the knowledge that the original had been pinned with some frequency, that led to the redesign. I thought a cowl neck plus an asymmetrical edge would give the design a fresh new lease on life. I'm so glad I did!

I was limited in my yarn choice, so I eventually went with Patons Lace & Sequins held double. It is super warm, very comfortable and easy care (although technically able to machine wash this fiber, I still might want to hand wash the piece to save the sequins).

The best aspects of this Rustically Elegant Shoulder Warmer is its versatility and ability to look good on most any body type. This sample (the smallest neck circumference) is shown here on two very different body types - with great results. The top shot shows the cowl unbuttoned and on one side; the bottom shot all buttoned up for warmth and worn on the opposite side. Versatile, versatile, versatile. I love that!