Paisley Ruana - CLK-106

• Ruana cloak • Machine washable. Easy care. Of all the fabrics I've worked with recently, this has got to be my favorite. So soft, so warm, and such rich elegant colors. What should I call that background color? My powers of description simply aren't up to the task at hand. In various lights, it looks like a deep burgundy, or mahogany brown, but perhaps just a bit purple-ier, like raisin. In any case, darker velvety areas set off the antique gold of the pattern perfectly, and it is truly gorgeous. Are you looking for effortless fashion? Look no further! This style of outwear is known as a "ruana", a wrap that is at home in everything from the most casual to the most formal of settings. The split panel in the front can be left to hang open, or one side can be draped across the other shoulder, for more elegant look. If you really want to dress it up, add a nice pin at the shoulder. This ruana measures 31' from the back of the neck to the bottom hem. What makes your cloaks so special? Before any sewing occurs, the fabric is washed in hot water and dried on high heat. The same happens with any trims that will be used. I typically do not know the fabric content of the materials I work with, and doing this ensures that there will be no unpleasant surprises, like shrinking or fading, down the road when you wash your cloak. The finishing touches are what it's all about! All seams are flat felled or French seamed, all hems are double rolled and double stitched, and all corners are mitered. Yes, it's a pain, and yes it takes longer to make it that way, but it means that you will not have any raw edges on your cloak that will ravel. In short, I take a great deal of pride in each cloak I make, because I want it to be something you will wear and enjoy for years to come. These are not cheap costume pieces, meant to wear once and throw away. They are carefully crafted garments which will stand up to years of wear and tear. Does this item come from a smoke-free, pet-free home? Smoke-free? Most definitely. Pet-free? Absolutely not. Every cloak is washed once it is completed and ready to be shipped. But if you have super severe allergies, please keep in mind that my cats do like to "help" me as I sew.