As summer turns into fall, these sweaters by Sonia Rykiel (b. 1930) epitomize cool-weather chic. Details like shoulder pads, bows, fitted bodices, and full sleeves gathered into ribbed cuffs illustrate Rykiel's talent for treating knitted wool like fabric.

Sonia Rykiel, Paris
c. l977-79
Gift of Patricia G. Waldron
2002.149   

Rykiel wanted her knitwear to take the shape of the body; therefore, she urged women to forgo wearing undergarments beneath her sweaters. This modern twist on sweater dressing gave a contemporary edge to Rykiel's retro-inspired silhouettes, undoubtedly influenced by Faye Dunaway's braless 1930s-style sweaters in the 1967 film Bonnie and Clyde. (Rykiel opened her eponymous Left Bank boutique in 1968.) The white hem on the square panel falling from the collar of this sweater calls attention to its unique construction, as well as adding depth and visual interest to the black garment.

Sonia Rykiel, Paris
c. l987-93
Gift of Patricia G. Waldron
2002.149   

This version is embellished with 36 metal beads in the form of seashells, perhaps a wistful reminder of summertime. Though made a decade after the first sweater, it could easily be from the same time period–or from our own. The Sonia Rykiel label is still going strong under the guidance of Artistic Director Julie de Libran, and recently announced a revamped children's line for Spring/Summer 2016.