Lion Brand Notebook ®
No matter how the forecast is looking, our October Color of the Year makes it clear: Fall is here. Warm, rich, and strong, Chestnut has all the power of a much-needed morning cup of coffee, but it’s surprisingly gentle, too. Earth tones in general are having a resurgence in the fashion world, especially in the past two seasons. And while it’s unusual to see brown tones featured on the runways of Fashion Week, there’s something undeniable about this hue. Whether it evokes an era of the recent past, or a present desire for grounding, we’re craving a little more Chestnut in our lives. For the list of our richest yarns, as well as five sumptuous patterns, read on
Since Chestnut and other browns have been burgeoning in our consciousness, Vogue highlighted the trend as a surprisingly fetching yet soothing ‘it’ color. If you’re desperate to reconnect with nature as your schedule picks up for the fall, then dressing the part can evoke those ‘off the grid’ vibes. In addition to evoking an emotional state we long to achieve (whether it’s calm or confidence), colors can also cultivate a nostalgia for bygone eras. The deep russet brown of Chestnut hearkens to the seventies, a time defined by its suede boots and bags, brown leather mini skirts, and whimsical afghans in questionable color combinations.
Top Down Raglan Cardigan (K)
Another memorable hallmark of the 70s was the first wave of American Feminism, notable because our current moment has also been called the Year of the Woman by CNN. Chestnut is actually the perfect banner color: romantic without being frilly, feminine (but not weak), fashionable – not trendy. If you’ve been savoring notes of Chestnut popping up in your favorite brick and mortar stores, then take a chance, and make your own.
CHESTNUT
Top Down Raglan Cardigan (Knit)
There’s nothing demure about our October color, and there’s nothing demure about this cardigan! The Top Down Raglan Cardigan (Knit) is worked up in Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in Sequoia, a rich, super bulky yarn with subtle tweedy glints. The complementary tones in this wood-y yarn add depth to your project, creating more of a statement piece than you might expect.
This classic shape will empower your knitting skills with a fun technique, and it features timeless cuffs and edging. Because it’s got a fabulous and over-sized squish, it’s easy to substitute this for your Fall jacket for a different look. You can highlight the glints in the tweed by matching your top to one of them, or go for the monochrome style that’s so popular right now.
Colorfully Modern Cardigan (C)
Our Colorfully Modern Cardigan (Crochet) is a crocheter’s delight. You’ll have the chance to combine post stitches, surface slip stitches, and set in pockets in a simple stripe sequence that will really show off your skills.
Your crochet hook prowess will be further amplified by the two different yarns called for in the pattern. Heartland Yarn in Sequoia will provide the deep base for this special cardi, and will also add fabulously soft texture. You’ll also use our beautiful Landscapes, a self-striping yarn that will add those distinct hints of color throughout your stitching.
Level 2 Knit Pullover & Basic Hat (Knit)
We couldn’t resist all the bountiful possibilities when it comes to Chestnut, so here are two for one!
First, the Level 2 Knit Pullover, with a still-trending square body and interesting stitch variation. This clever combination of knit and purl stitches is accentuated by a lighter-colored yarn, which really lets them shine. While the Woolspun called for in this pattern is out of stock, we’d suggest substituting Vanna’s Choice in either Honey or Toffee.
The terrific tam topping off this look is our Basic Hat (Knit), made with Landscapes in Mountain Range. Go ahead and let this self-striping yarn do all the work! Even beginning knitters can embrace some Chestnut this fall with this straightforward pattern.
Fisherman Rib Scarf (Knit)
If you’re craving more accessory options in this rich color, then look no further than our Fisherman Rib Scarf (Knit). There’s nothing like a super scarf – it’s the ultimate statement accessory. This look says, “I own the changing weather, and I’ll look fabulous doing it.” Plus, if you choose to wrap it several times around your neck and shoulders, it can even replace a jacket on a cool day.
This pattern calls for two of our favorite yarns this Fall: Mandala and Touch of Alpaca. We’re smitten with yarn combos right now – blending complementary colors and textures to create complete unique possibilities is so 2018. Mandala adds roving color to this piece, keeping it from feeling cumbersome in one color. For added warmth, the second fiber is our Touch of Alpaca, a cozy blend of Alpaca and Acrylic. These two are definitely a winning combination, in color, texture and overall coziness.
There’s no wrong way to wear this striking-yet-soft color. Since it could never be mistaken for a passing trend, it’s even safe to lavish in it, head to toe, in monochrome. Or, you could mix solids with some perfectly Fall tweeds for a richer effect. You don’t have to have loved it the first time around, decades ago, to embrace it now. That’s the beauty of cyclical fashion – good taste comes around and around, so we’ll all get the chance to enjoy it.
Written with Adina Klein, Creative Director of Lion Brand.
You must be <a href="https://blog.lionbrand.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fblog.lionbrand.com%2Foctober-color-chestnut%2F">logged in</a> to post a comment.
Margaret Hier
The colors are beautiful….I think. Placing the models on the dark background is very artistic and captures a mood, BUT certainly doesn’t show off the knitted clothing.