Andorra alerted me to a crocheted sweater by Michael Kors in Saks on Michigan Avenue. (third floor, by the east escalator) I went to see it this morning. Camel colored, 100% cashmere yarn from Italy and made in China. Unlined. Price: $1265.

Now, let me tell you what it really is: a very simple stitch and a very simple shape ..... with patch pockets. The stitch is nothing more than a *2 dc in next st, skip 1 st* repeat. The workmanship is exquisite and the yarn feels great. But if you think knitting and crochet are expensive hobbies, you can save yourself oodles of money by making it yourself. Arcadia Knitting has patterns that are very similar, or if you're the type who likes to go for it, take your measurements and go!

I can think of a number of yarns in the shop that would be great for this - the Margrite from Karabella, a cashmere/merino blend, Ultra Alpaca from Berroco, alpaca & wool, and Bel Air from GGH Muench. Cost of the wool would be from $120 - $300 depending on what you choose. The Michael Kors sweater comes only in camel. I don't look good in camel. Another benefit of do-it-yourself: pick your own color.

You can make great things for yourself. This is a classic look and you can wear it for years.