A new favorite!

This was such a lovely make and I’m so pleased with it. It’s no exaggeration to say this is now one of my favorite pieces I own. Lily Kate is truly a details queen!

I started by making this as a size 5, since I have a 45” bust measurement. I couldn’t get gauge on my first two swatches so ended up going up two needle sizes from the recommended needle size. THIS WAS A MISTAKE! The chain ply of the yarn stretched considerably more than expected when knitting the straps and the armholes were comically large when I tried on. Lily Kate recommended I size down to a size 4 given that my bust is proportionally much larger than my other measurements (I am an F cup in bras). I was skeptical at first but speaking to other makers it seems pretty common to size down on Lily Kate patterns. I threw all caution to the wind and knit a size 4 with the recommended needle size. It’s a snug fit but not uncomfortable and I’m really happy with the more fitted look. It’s inspired me to try knitting a size down more often to avoid a more baggy/boxy look.

Given my cup size, I did add the optional bust darts. I’m really glad I did, as even with them the front of the shirt still is a little shorter than the back. I would recommend anyone who is a D cup or larger add the bust darts.

I was very intimidated by the curved double knitting on the sleeves and neckline when I read the pattern instructions, and the more I read them the more confused I was. However, I trusted the pattern and just took it one step at a time and it turned out lovely!

The yarn was great to work with, though as noted above, it was tricky to get gauge on my swatches and trial and error was the way to go. I’ve since worn this in New York City humidity and it held up beautifully in the gross weather. I did notice a ton of dye in the water when blocking and rinsed 3 times to get it out! The color is still vibrant but if I knit with multiple colors I’d be worried about bleeding.