Navigating through fashion shows, scrolling Pinterest, and flipping through glossy magazines, it's clear that the knitting and crochet worlds are constantly evolving and now asserting themselves boldly in haute couture. Puff and balloon sleeves were the domain of DIY crafters during the pandemic but now grace the runways, demonstrating the ongoing innovation in our beloved yarn crafts. But some things remain comfortingly constant - the enduring beanie, for instance, steadfastly refuses to go out of style. And while the cooler months might traditionally lean towards darker hues, Fall and Winter 2023 are not shying away from a vibrant color palette in knitwear. So, let's dive deep into the knittable and crochetable trends of the season, ensuring your knitting needles and crochet hooks are primed and ready for action!
Knit a Ribbed Beanie
Ribbed beanies, in all their simplistic splendor, are making a statement this year, showcasing variations like the 1 x 1 rib (featured in our photo example), the 2x2, and the dynamic two-colored brioche patterns. Not only are they the epitome of minimalistic chic, but they also serve as an excellent project for beginners and those who want to hone their skills in knitting rounds using either short circular interchangeable needles or the timeless double-pointed needles.
The process is straightforward: knit a generous slouch, ranging from 20-26 cm to allow for a substantial, stylish brim, and then initiate decreases at 3 or 4 points in the pattern every two rows. Stitch markers are a necessity in this pattern, though. As you approach the finish, knit two stitches together throughout every second round until you have 6 - 8 stitches left. To finish your beanie, leave your remaining stitches on two needles. Then cut your thread, leaving a generous tail, grab a repair crochet hook, and crochet two opposing stitches on each needle together, et voila! Your bespoke beanie is ready to turn heads this season.
The Textured Mini Scarf
Evoking the charm of 1960s fashion, neck scarves have made a fashionable comeback with a cozy twist. While their resurgence nods to past elegance, today's scarves sport sumptuous knitted textures. Featuring tweed wool or lighter cotton options, they are guaranteed to become a must-have fall accessory worn by all sexes. Knitted neck scarves are ascending in popularity, infusing daily ensembles with luxury. They range from those crafted with straightforward stitches to ones featuring intricate elements, like the detailed Leaf Cravat by knitwear designer Faina Goberstein.
This unisex shawl is crafted from sideways from one end to the other. Start with 3 stitches, and increase your stitch count slowly towards the middle, then decrease similarly. melds style and practicality beautifully, guaranteeing a chic accessory and a shield against the crisp chill of autumn mornings.
The Broad Shoulder Wrap
The vintage spirit of Austrian folklore garments is evoked in this elegant, uni-colored shawl by Drops Design, featuring a mix of cables on top of a seed stitch pattern and bobbles, typical in traditional Bavarian clothing. The 14.5-inch wide and 78 inches long piece uses 650 g of Merino wool. It is crafted on 3.5 mm (US size 3) circular knitting needles enabling knitters to distribute the considerable weight more evenly.
Cardigans and Sweaters with balloon sleeves
Puffed balloon sleeves, a striking feature of 1890s Victorian blouses, have revived and reshaped modern fashion. Though they found a place in hand-knitting a few years back, their resurgent presence on numerous international runways this fall has been notably impactful. The cyclical phenomenon, intertwining vintage charm with contemporary style, continues to enchant designers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Think figure-hugging cardigans and sweaters made from fingering and airy wool yarn with voluminous sleeves like this minimalist uni-colored example by petiteknit. With the body knit flat on circular knitting needles, size 4mm (US size 6), and the sleeves crafted in the round, the balloon cardigan makes for a meditative and beginner-friendly project.
Boxy Vests with Structured Patterns
Embrace the chill with a flat-knitted boxy cabled winter slipover perfect for knitters ranging from beginner to intermediate. Knitted bottom-up on 4.5 mm circular needles using a blend of alpaca wool and brushed lamb silk yarn, this piece combines style and functionality. A vest with a textured pattern is a relatively quick knit, featuring design intricacies like two long side slits, a double turtleneck, and dropped shoulders. Although presenting a few challenges for beginners, it is worked in a stocking stitch, with a two-colored braided cable on the left side employing an intarsia-like technique. Shaping the armholes and rounding the shoulders involve the German short-row method.
Start by casting on with 4.0 mm needles for the edges, gradually crafting from ribbing to cabling. Final touches include sewing the shoulder sides and crafting a trendy dual-layered turtleneck for that extra snuggle against winter's crispness.
Artisans know that having the right tools is pivotal when crafting new fashion trends this fall. Knit Pro knitting needles and accessories seamlessly intertwine the essence of timeless craftsmanship with every stitch created.
