What do you do when it’s too warm for a sweater, but too cold for a shawl? Add layers, of course! Lately, vests, capes, and other layering pieces have cropped up as stylish options. Here are five from the Farm & Fiber Knits Library to help you chase those chills away!
Zephyr Vest is a Breeze
The Zephyr Vest is a loose-fitting, wear-with-everything layering piece with architectural twisted-stitch details. Thoughtfully designed by Sarah Pope with deep armholes and a V-neck cardigan front, this versatile vest knits up quickly with a minimum of seaming, offering just the right amount of warmth.
The Zephyr Vest is designed with comfort—and ease of knitting—in mind.
Celebrate Ranch-Raised Wool with the Smith River Vest
Why not cast on a Smith River Vest in Kami Noyes’s natural-colored Targhee yarn? Designed by Joanna Johnson as a tribute to the people who work together to preserve tradition and ranch responsibly, the Smith River Vest is a lovely warm gray color that’s sure to go with everything in your wardrobe for years to come.
The Smith River Vest is a celebration of local wool.
Knit a Classic Cabled Vest for the Cricket Match
With her proclamation that “there’s no wrong way to knit,” designer Annie Modesitt quickly became one of my knitting heroes. Her sports-inspired V-neck vest pattern has been updated with expanded sizing. It’s a classic and versatile style, with thoughtful details—the cables on the front are complex, while those on the back are simpler for quicker knitting and less bulk when worn under a jacket. No matter how you wear it, the Vest for the Cricket Match is a game-changer!
The Vest for the Cricket Match is a classic piece and designed for comfort.
The Cache Cou is the Best of Both Worlds
Want the look of lots of layers without all the bulk? When you need to keep cold winds away from your neck and shoulders but don’t want the bulk of sleeves beneath a jacket, slip on this cuddly turtleneck to face the chilliest day. Designed by Jen Geigley in Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok, the Cache Cou is a fashion-forward way to stay warm (but not too warm) and look stylish at the same time!
With plenty of warmth and no bulk at the underarms, the Cache Cou is the best of both worlds.
Style with the Chill Chaser Poncho
Have you heard? Ponchos and capes are back in style! They’re not quite shawls, not quite sweaters, and oh-so-chic. Start with the Chill Chaser Poncho—a fashion-forward, yet classic, layering piece with rich cables and eyelet lace. Designed by Deborah Newton, this poncho has lots of design details that will keep you warm, cozy, and comfortable, no matter the weather.
The Chill Chaser Poncho is a beautiful and stylish layering piece.
Further Reading
- Want more ideas for layering your handknits? Check out Pat’s 10 Tips.
- Find out how you can use vests to level up your knitting here.