Knits That Truly Fit: Making Clothes for Your Life

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a knitter is that patterns are a starting point, not a rulebook. Whether you’re modifying a yoke to suit narrow shoulders or adjusting stitch counts for fuller hips, knitting for your body means making pieces that don’t just look nice—they work for your lifestyle.

My yellow Zweig sweater is a perfect example. Made with Retrosaria Mondim from La Bien Aimée, this fingering weight yoke sweater hits that sweet spot between structured and relaxed. The stitch definition makes the lace and colorwork shine, and the soft, rustic wool gives it that gentle bounce I crave in daily wear. I’ve worn it over dresses, paired it with jeans, and layered it for evening walks. It’s beautiful, yes—but more importantly, it’s wearable.

WIPs That Are Already Favorites

This summer, I’ve been deep in a few knitting projects that I already know will become wardrobe staples.

The Venilia Tee by Sari Nordlund has been a joy to knit. With its light construction, delicate lace yoke, and effortless shape, it’s the kind of piece that easily slides into any outfit. I’m knitting it in the Yellow Brick Road Graffiti colorway of Mondim, a yarn I keep returning to for its crisp stitch definition and breathable texture. It’s wearable in warm weather but has enough versatility to carry into fall.

The Isabella Sweater is another labor of love—crafted with intentional fit tweaks and raglan construction that reflects years of learning what works best for my frame. I’ve leaned into shaping choices that prioritize comfort and silhouette, using Helix by La Bien Aimée in the rich, romantic Lise colorway.

And then there’s the Diona Tee, knit with a stunning silk-BFL blend from The Wool Kitchen. The cable motif adds elegance, while the 2x2 ribbing gives structure and flexibility. It’s exactly the kind of knit I imagine dressing up or down, making it a go-to for both casual days and moments that call for something special.

My Cast-On: The Slanting Slipover (with a Fit Update)

My latest cast-on is the Slanting Slipover—a minimalist vest with graphic lines and a timeless silhouette. I’m using Isager Aran Tweed, which brings a rustic softness that’s perfect for cooler months. The structure is thoughtful, and the top-down construction makes it easy to modify… which brings me to something important.

💬 A Quick Note on Size Inclusivity:

This pattern didn’t include my size—something that still surprises me, especially in the knitting world. I’m adjusting the pattern to suit my body, adding stitches and customizing the shaping to create a piece that fits me well. While I have the skills to modify patterns, I believe everyone deserves access to size inclusive patterns. I’ll be documenting my mods in case it’s helpful for others working with similar proportions. Because plus size knitting should be empowering, not discouraging.

What Makes a Knit “Wearable”?

For me, wearable knits come down to three things:

Fit, fiber, and functionality.

If it fits my body, feels great against my skin, and works with the rest of my wardrobe—I know I’ll reach for it again and again. And when a piece checks all those boxes, it becomes more than just a finished object. It becomes part of my story.

Tracking which knits get the most wear has helped me better understand what I truly want to make: pieces with purpose. It’s changed the way I choose yarn, patterns, and even colorways (spoiler: I’m still in love with that golden Yellow Brick Road).

Final Thoughts: Knitting With Intention

Whether you’re adjusting a neckline for comfort or choosing a yarn that’s breathable enough for warm days, making practical knits is a form of self-care. It’s about being honest with yourself—your lifestyle, your body, your preferences—and then crafting something that meets you there.

If you’re also on a journey to build a knitting wardrobe that fits, both literally and emotionally, I hope this post offered a bit of inspiration. You deserve garments that you love to wear, not just ones that look good in a photo.