Cables were a big trend on the catwalks for autumn/winter 2017.
At Temperley and Lanvin, they formed classic, crisp, symmetrical designs. Sonia Rykiel and Ulla Johnson created more richly decorated pieces by combining multiple cabled strands with lace, ruffles and textured popcorn stitch, respectively. There was a more relaxed look at Joseph, with soft, slouchy cables that lacked the definition of more classic designs.
Clockwise from top left: Lanvin Cable Knit Sweater, Temperley Shade Knit Sweater, Ulla Johnson Gwendolyn Cardigan , Sonia Rykiel Aran Knit Sweater with Basque Hemline
The variety continued in how the cable designs were featured in cardigans and jumpers- some in narrow panel details and others filling the piece with an all-over design. Some created a cosy feel with chunky, oversized fabrics, while others created a neater, more sleek finish with finer yarns and closer fit.
So, whatever your style, there should be a place for the new season cables in your wardrobe.
Knit-inspiration:
Starting small- Shoulder Details: Light Trails by Suvi Simola – this 4-ply/fingering weight jumper is all about subtle details: vanishing cables across the shoulders and upper arms, reverse stocking stitch/stockinette on the sleeves and an oversized, boxy fit all combine to give an elegant, modern twist to what is otherwise a simple stocking stitch/stockinette jumper. A great introduction to cables for new cable knitters.
Cosy cardigan: Pumpkin Ale by Ysolda Teague – this worsted weight, long cardigan flares slightly from the waist and features a richly textured back panel of garter stitch and cables. The warm, burnt orange of the original was also a recurring colour on the catwalks this season.
Oversized sweater: Chloe by Amy Miller – this aran weight, cowl neck jumper is adorned with dozens of cables, from the intricate Celtic style front panel, to the more simple, narrow cables of the sides and back. Designed to be worn with about 38cm/15″ of positive ease, the oversized fit and boxy shaping give a more modern and elegant feel to classic cables.
Classic v-neck: Brookings by Marie Greene – a more accessible project for beginner cable knitters, this worsted weight v-neck jumper has a simple, central cabled panel and cable detail on the sleeves. Knitted top-down and in one piece, without seams, it makes a great every-day garment that has a comfy, cosy feel that is still flattering and contemporary.
Cosy, chunky cowl neck: DownEast by Alicia Plummer – perfect for chilly winter days, this chunky/bulky weight jumper features a cowl neck and chevron-effect cabled panel on one half of the front, while the remaining fabric is simple stocking stitch/stockinette. Knit in a tweed or heathered wool for a hard wearing, rustic finish or follow the pattern recommendation and use a soft merino to give an edge of luxury to an everyday jumper.
knitting through the back loop 
Love those vanishing cables
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They’re one of my favourites too- they remind me of a fading ripple that just disappears back into the water. . .
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I’m just starting a cabled project myself, the Botanical Yoke Pullover by Purl Soho. Using Anzula Cricket in Olivia. So far I have less than an inch so there’s not much to show!
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I just had a look at the Botanical Yoke Pullover pattern- wow! Beautiful cables- I can see why they went for a name like ‘botanical’ as they remind me of roots or weaving tree branches. Love how they fade away into the ribbing of the main body. It’s funny that you’ll be working on a cabled sweater but the cables are the last thing you’ll get to! Do you prefer having the high concentration, pretty bits to look forward to? I think I alternate between wanting something interesting ahead to motivate me onwards, and getting it all done early so I can relax for the rest! (Ps love your yarn- such a gorgeous colour!)
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