Gocce

Gocce Fitted Lace Cardigan and Cowl by Linda Marveng

What is Being Made

Gocce is a sophisticated fitted summery lace cardigan designed by Linda Marveng, paired with a coordinating cowl. The name "Gocce," Italian for drops, references the delicate lace pattern that adorns this v-neck jacket. The cardigan is inspired by Shibui Knits' Rain chainette cotton yarn and its poetic introduction about fleeting drops falling. This is a refined piece suitable for warm-weather layering, available in six sizes ranging from Extra Small to 2X-Large. The cowl is a one-size accessory that can be worn loose or wrapped twice around the neck for versatile styling options.

Finished Measurements

• Cardigan Bust/Hip: 77 (85, 92, 103, 114, 125) cm / 30.5 (33.5, 36, 40.5, 45, 49) inches
• Cardigan Waist: 71 (79, 86, 97, 108, 119) cm / 28 (31, 34, 38, 42.5, 47) inches
• Cardigan Length: 61 (62, 63, 64, 65, 66) cm / 24 (24.5, 24.75, 25.25, 25.5, 26) inches
• Sleeve Length: 49 (50, 50, 51, 51, 51) cm / 19.25 (19.75, 19.75, 20, 20, 20) inches
• Cowl Width: 102 cm / 40.25 inches
• Cowl Height: 29 cm / 11.5 inches

Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using the knitted in pieces method, which allows for precise shaping and an optimal fit. Each component—front panels, back panel, and sleeves—is knitted separately before being seamed together. This approach is particularly effective for achieving the fitted silhouette that defines Gocce. The v-neck design and waist shaping demonstrate intermediate to experienced-level garment construction. The cowl is knitted as a separate circular or flat piece that coordinates with the cardigan's aesthetic.

Stitches and Lace Pattern

Gocce features a lace pattern throughout, which is the signature design element of this cardigan. The lace motif evokes the concept of falling drops, creating visual interest while maintaining the lightweight, breathable quality essential for a summery garment. Lace knitting requires attention to yarn overs, decreases, and stitch placement to achieve the delicate openwork design. The pattern is integrated into the body and sleeves, creating a cohesive aesthetic across the entire piece.

Materials and Yarn

This pattern is designed for DK weight yarn, a medium-light yarn weight that provides excellent drape and definition for lace patterns. The designer's inspiration came from Shibui Knits' Rain, a chainette cotton yarn known for its lustrous finish and fluid characteristics. Cotton yarn is ideal for summer garments due to its breathability and natural temperature-regulating properties. The DK weight allows the lace pattern to be clearly visible while maintaining the fitted structure of the cardigan. Standard knitting needles appropriate for DK weight yarn are required, along with basic seaming supplies for finishing the piece.

Skill Level and Difficulty

This pattern is rated as Intermediate to Experienced skill level. Knitters should be comfortable with lace knitting techniques, including managing yarn overs and decreases in pattern sequences. The fitted construction with waist shaping and the integration of lace throughout require attention to gauge and stitch counts. Seaming multiple pieces together with precision is also necessary for achieving the intended fit and polished appearance. This is not a beginner project but is accessible to knitters with solid foundational skills and some experience working with lace patterns.

Design Details

The Gocce cardigan features a v-neck opening that adds elegance and sophistication to the design. The fitted silhouette is achieved through strategic waist shaping, with finished waist measurements that are noticeably smaller than the bust and hip measurements, creating a flattering, tailored look. The coordinating cowl adds a refined finishing touch and provides styling versatility—it can be worn as a simple collar or doubled around the neck for added warmth and visual interest. The sommery construction and lace detailing make this cardigan suitable for layering over