vest envy

My secret is out: anytime I make clothes for Milo, I want a version for myself. It's just that the shapes and styles of menswear appeal to me, and always have. When I think of outfits I've loved in movies, I picture what Annie Hall wore when they were in the theatre line, or Meg Ryan as she walked through the park with Billy Crystal in When Harry Met Sally. Both inspired (or even borrowed) from menswear. So it was only a matter of time before I made myself a vest. Milo has a growing pile of them (and a new pattern in the works!) and vests are just as practical for adults as they are for kids.

I used Alison Hansel's Leftovers pattern, which is free from Knitty. It's a great pattern for using up scraps of wool, but even without the stripes the shape is perfect. There is enough negative ease to give the vest a flattering fit while still being the classic v-neck style. Not only was the vest a quick knit, but by using Cascade 220, it was also a very economical garment. With one already knit - and worn to work a few times already - I think I will make another but splurge on some more exciting wool. And by more exciting I probably mean my favourite wool, Debbie Bliss' Luxury Donegal Tweed, because I am actually quite boring and prone to habits.

(Side note: the vest also looks great with a tie. But I'll have to sew my own because Jay's collection is a little too 1970's for my taste. And then Milo might need one too. Of course.)