Inspired by the Japanese belly warmers known as haramaki, the concept behind Makiko is that keeping vital organs covered will warm the entire body.

Makiko is a versatile wonder that eradicates the ungainly bulkiness of winter layers. The compact piece can function as a trim layer under the suit jacket, a double layered cowl or hood with neck hugging ribbing to block any drafts.

The stitch patterns are completely reversible, and in the case of Metamorphosis Stitch, wildly different on the right and wrong side. One side has the delicate look of a butterfly, while the opposite resembles organic pods.

Both are worked with a double strand of HiKoo Kenzie, a soft and lightweight blend of wool, alpaca, silk, angora and nylon, which lends a high degree of curve hugging memory.

The 1x1 ribbing can nearly double in circumference to fit snugly under your bust or at the waist, so choose a size that is roughly half of this measurement. This ribbing will also fit comfortably around your neck to block any cold drafts when you wear the haramaki as a cowl.

All photos by Kathy Cadigan