Anchored

Anchored Summer Top by Ruth Garcia-Alcantud

What Is Being Made

Anchored is a sophisticated summer knit top designed by independent designer Ruth Garcia-Alcantud. This garment is a versatile piece that transitions seamlessly from day to evening wear, offering a minimalist aesthetic on the front while featuring intricate shaping details on the back. The finished bust circumference ranges from 30 to 44 inches (76.20 to 111.75 cm), accommodating sizes from XS through XXL. The sample shown measures 34 inches (86.40 cm) at the bust and is displayed with minimal positive ease for a close, flattering fit.

Design and Construction Techniques

Anchored employs strategic decreases throughout the garment to create figure-shaping and visual interest. The upper back features a series of decreases that work in conjunction with crossover details to create an elegant, sensual silhouette. The front of the garment maintains a clean, streamlined appearance with a sleek look and minimal visual distractions, while the back showcases skin through crossings and strategic shaping. This contrast between front and back creates a garment that is both demure and sensual, making it suitable for multiple occasions and styling options.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used in Anchored is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, refined fabric surface ideal for a summer top. Stockinette stitch is worked over the body of the garment and provides the foundation for the structured shaping created through decreases. The decreases are strategically placed, particularly on the upper back, to create fitted shaping and visual texture through the crossover details.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Sirdar Luxury Soft Cotton DK, 100% natural cotton, 104 yards (95 meters) per 50-gram ball, shade 669. Yardage requirements range from 4 balls for the smallest size to 7 balls for the largest size.

Needles: US size 6 (4mm) circular needles, 24 inches (60 cm) in length.

Gauge: 20 stitches and 24 rows equal 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch on US 6 (4mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential to ensure the finished garment measures as intended for your chosen size.

Additional Notions: Stitch markers, stitch holders, tapestry needle, and scissors are required to complete the project.

Yarn Weight and Difficulty Level

Anchored is worked in DK weight yarn, a lightweight and versatile yarn weight ideal for summer garments. The pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle garments with shaping and more complex construction details. The combination of stockinette stitch with strategic decreases and crossover elements requires attention to pattern instructions and gauge, but remains accessible to experienced beginner and intermediate-level knitters.