Inspiration
Dana’s Edit: Lady Sweaters
It’s the time of year where you might have a lot of events with family and friends through the new year—and don’t you want pretty knits to wear?
This is a category that I call Lady Sweaters, because when I put them on I automatically feel dressed up and ready for whatever office holiday party my husband throws my way. They’re more special than your simple pullovers and cardigans, with details and structure that give you a flattering shape.
This month, let’s take a look at knits that get you ready to paint the town red.
Pont Neuf by Tin Can Knits
I have had the Pont Neuf sweater on my list since my early days of sweater knitting. The front lace panel says you’re smart and chic and that you aren’t wearing just any cardigan. The fact that you knit it for yourself says you’re wonderfully talented. I keep promising myself I’ll make this sweater, but I haven’t found the right color that I want to make it in.
Do I go bold and make it in a vivid red? Or soft and feminine in pink? Or perhaps just make it in my favorite shade of green? Or should I go neutral so I can wear it with everything? Once the color inspiration hits me I’ll know and this will fly off of my needles.
Pont Neuf photos by AiméE gille and kate gilbert for twist collective courtesy of Tin Can Knits.
Retro Pullover by Norah Gaughan
This sweater had me at Retro. I love the shape, the stripes, and the pattern within the stripes.
This sweater says it is meant to be worn on a night out. Imagine knitting it in a yarn with a little bit of sparkle, to really make it the ultimate addition to your evening wardrobe.
Retro photos courtesy of Berroco.
Ingrid by Corrina Ferguson
I love the styling of this sweater on a ballerina. But when you look closer at the sweater you realize how delicate and fitted it is, and that it’s screaming to be worn with a big skirt or an amazing pair of wide leg trousers.
It’s the epitome of femininity and functionality.
Ingrid photos courtesy of Interweave.
In the MDK Shop
Chroming by Quenna Lee
Into cables? Love a menswear-inspired piece? Then Chroming might be the sweater for you. It’s a classic crew neck, cabled sweater, but the curve at the hem takes it to a new level. I like to think of it as being preppy and polished in one piece.
Knit any of these sweaters and you’ll always have a piece you can put on and immediately feel polished.
Chroming photos by crissy jarvis courtesy of Quenna Lee.
In the MDK Shop
Dana, I love your posts every time. Your knitting is so inspiring and your smile brightens up this dark November morning here in Maine. Many thanks!
Ditto!!!
Ditto too!
What she said!!!
Oh, those are so nice! You’re absolutely right, sometimes a nice retro stylish ladylike sweater is a needed contrast to pullovers and cardis, as much as we like those. I’m currently on a Fibre Company/ Kate Davies kick (Myrtle or Oran do Chaora, anyone?), but several of these may go onto my list.
These are stunning! I always look forward to your posts.
These are beautiful! Any chance for a men’s set as well?
Love your posts, and go back to look at your choices often. Today, it’s the ballerina sweater! Thank you.
Thank you for introducing me via your email to Dana Williams-Johnson. I love her posts and love her newsletter. Happy Holidays to all of you at MDK.
Thank you Dana. These are beautiful. Again, thanks for taking the time to write this. I know you are extremely busy right now.
Love the first two. The neckline of the 3rd and the hem of the 4th. Red or a sophisticated shade of pink would be my choices for color because they can be both dressy and casual. But knowing you, Dana, you will come up with something unexpected and marvelous.
Ooh, Pont Neuf in some gorgeous Thing For String DK I have in red. I have been looking for a suitable pattern to show off this beautiful tonal yarn. I may have to drop my Christmas knitting (sorry girlfriends!) and cast this on?
Oof! I need to make all of these, IMMEDIATELY! Thanks for the awesome rec’s Dana!
Beautiful sweaters! Thanks Dana!