I added the henley-style opening with buttons to add visual interest. The buttons are antique brass finish with a thistle motif and go well with the color of the sweater. The sweater is several years old now and has worn well; it’s very warm due to the mohair content of the yarn, and I often wear it as outerwear instead of a jacket when it’s cool to cold out. Without the button placket, it would make a good beginner project because English Rib is an easy stitch.