Our friend Annabella Serra rarely knits from a pattern. She just takes off and makes it up as she goes! We love this cowl she created—with its lavish length and unexpected switch from rib to stockinette—and she was kind enough to share it with us. Knit in a sublimely soft pairing of Alchemy hand-dyed yarns, it’ll be the most versatile piece you own.

How many ways can you wear this beauty? Slip it over your head and slouch it around your neck, or fold it with either the ribbed or stockinette end out. Want it closer to your neck? Take a pleat in the fullness, pull it to one side and add a pin. Pull it up over your head for a soft hood. Or pull it out long as a scarf, wrap it around your neck and tie it or fasten it with a brooch or shawl pin. Did we forget anything?

If you want to substitute other yarns, be sure to choose a dk weight yarn that’s at least 50% silk so it will drape nicely and its luster will catch the light. Laceweight mohair adds a hazy aura that allows you to knit more loosely for great drape—choose one that’s soft enough to wear next to your skin.