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"When winter paints the world grey, reach for a little Cotton Candy instead—soft, sweet, and unapologetically pink."
With the release of my newest pattern, the Cotton Candy Capelet, I found myself wondering just how long people have been wrapping warm things around their shoulders and calling them fashionable.
As it turns out, quite a long time.
Capes, capelets, mantles, cloaks and every variation in between have been making appearances throughout history for centuries. They have kept royalty warm in draughty castles, accompanied travellers on long journeys, and featured in more fairy tales than I can count.
Let's be honest though. Most of us aren't trying to stay warm while riding horseback across medieval Europe. And while Little Red Riding Hood may have been a role model for the modern independent woman, having to deal with angry wolves is one historical fashion trend I'm happy to leave in the past.
We're trying to survive winter.
And perhaps look reasonably stylish while doing so.
A capelet is a scarf with an identity crisis. It sits somewhere between a scarf and a full cape. It gives warmth where you want it most—around your shoulders and neck—without leaving you tangled in metres of fabric every time you reach for a coffee.
Practical? Yes.
Elegant? Also yes.
Likely to get caught in the wheel of a horse-drawn carriage? Probably not. Although I imagine that was a much bigger concern back in the day.
The Cotton Candy Capelet takes this traditional garment and gives it a thoroughly modern makeover. Instead of dark, sombre winter shades, it embraces colour.
With a touch of whimsy.
Because while winter may be compulsory, dressing in shades of grey is not.
While the prototype is worked in delicious shades of pink and cream, the colour possibilities are endless. Make it your own through colour choice, button selection, or both. The buttoned neckline makes it easy to wear, while the gentle shaping creates a comfortable fit that sits beautifully around the shoulders.
It is the sort of project that works equally well paired with jeans and boots for a morning walk, or as a statement piece for an evening out.
The pattern includes sizes from Extra Small through to Extra Large and is provided in both US and UK crochet terminology.
Winter may already have arrived, but facing it in style—and perhaps your own unapologetic shade of pink—seems entirely appropriate.
After all, winter may paint the world grey.
There's no reason you have to match it.