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FASHION ‘INSIDER’ FOR THIS FALL

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I was at the mall today and was drawn to the women’s accessory department.  There are oodles of pretty scarves there in all colors and fibers.  There is a definite trend toward purples/burgundies for this Fall and Winter.  Many of these scarves fall into the ‘scrap’ category for us crocheters.  Here are a few goodies that wouldn’t take much of a pattern to recreate.

fossil scarf macy 1009This one is by Fossil.  Ges some variegated yarn in deep teal and other blues, some solid blue/black for the embellishment, and a large gauge crochet hook.  It would take an hour for the scarf and maybe another hour for its ‘flower’.

This Ralph Lauren sells for $48!  Pretty colors.  Easy to create some motifs and join them to suit yourself.

ralph lauren scarf macy 1009

echo scarf 1 macy 1009echo scarf 2 macy 1009

Here are two by Echo that sell for about $35. How easy would these be? Grab your orphan skeins and get busy!
The cutest scarves there today (IMO) aren’t on their website. They were made in bulky yarn, rows of burgundy and off white with slightly ruffled ends like the one on the orange sweater.  These are really no challenge to make.  So, start crocheting your holiday gifts now.  Just pull out what you have on hand and work up some splendid scarves of your own today.  Save at least $25 per scarf!

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The Forest Valley Shawl – Crochet Pattern

This is one of those shawl patterns that feels instantly calming, even before you pick up a hook. The Forest Valley Shawl (After Party Pattern 23) by Scheepjes, available through Jimmy Beans Wool, has a very gentle, nature-inspired feel that really lives up to its name.

What I love about this design is how wearable it is. Some shawls are beautiful but awkward to style; this one feels practical in the best way. It drapes naturally, sits nicely on the shoulders, and works just as well for everyday wear as it does for something a little dressier. It’s the sort of piece you grab when the air cools in the evening and you don’t want anything heavy.

From a crochet perspective, this is a lovely “slow and steady” project. The stitch pattern has enough variation to keep your interest, but it’s not overly complicated. It’s very much the kind of crochet you can sink into — the sort that lets your mind wander while your hands keep moving. Perfect for quiet afternoons or evening crochet sessions.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate territory. If you’re comfortable following a pattern and keeping your stitch count in check, you’ll enjoy this a lot. It’s also a great pattern for appreciating beautiful yarn — especially colourways that shift and flow, as the shawl really lets them shine.

Overall, the Forest Valley Shawl is one of those free crochet patterns that feels thoughtful and soothing. It’s wearable, relaxing to make, and finished with a look that feels timeless rather than trendy. If you enjoy shawls that are as comforting to crochet as they are to wear, this one is definitely worth bookmarking.