Duchess Collection
How One Shawl Became a Regal Crochet Wardrobe
How it all began…
Some designs take shape stitch by stitch. Others spark something deeper — a whole new path. The Duchess Shawl was just that: a simple, regal shawl that opened the door to a growing collection of garments and accessories built around elegance, structure, and transformation.
In this post, I’m taking you behind the scenes of the Duchess Collection — how one crochet idea led to a whole family of designs: a cozy shrug, a mirrored shawl, and who knows what’s next.
The Duchess Collection: Timeless Crochet Elegance
The Duchess Collection is a carefully curated set of crocheted shawls, wraps, and gloves, all designed with a signature stitch pattern that has become a customer favorite. This collection showcases the beauty of handcrafted accessories, offering a variety of styles to suit different occasions and preferences.
Each piece in the Duchess Collection is thoughtfully designed to highlight the intricate details of crochet artistry. Whether you prefer classic elegance or a modern twist, you’ll find stunning designs in various shapes and forms. On the one hand, some pieces are embelished with delicate fringes, while others keep their plain, sophisticated look without much detail. On the other hand, unique patchwork variations stand contrary to the seamless one-piece construction. The versatility of this collection makes it easy to find a piece that complements your wardrobe while adding a touch of sophistication.
🧵 1. The Original: Duchess Shawl
It all began with the Duchess Shawl — a triangular wrap with a sense of poise and simplicity. Unaware that it would soon become the initiator of a whole collection, the Duchess design focused on structure and elegance. I used refined stitches to create a timeless piece that feels both classic and modern.
🧶 2. A Surprise Offshoot: Duchess Shrugdigan
Sometimes, running out of yarn is exactly what you need. When I didn’t have enough yarn to finish the Duchess Shawl as planned, I wrapped the circular motif around my shoulders — and suddenly, a shrugdigan was born (Shrug + Cardigan) – the first child of the Duchess Collection.
From that happy accident came the Duchess Shrugdigan: a round crocheted piece with mini sleeves, cozy and flattering, open in the front and dramatic at the back. It’s simple to make, yet makes a bold statement.
🌕 3. Playing With Symmetry: Moon Duchess
Next came a new idea: what if I flipped the original shawl shapes? What if I played with symmetry — and reflection?
The Moon Duchess was born from that question. With semicircular front panels and a full-circle back, this shawl takes the Duchess silhouette in a new direction. It’s a meditation on balance, geometry, and creative transformation.
🧤 4. A Regal Touch: Duchess Gloves
For special customers who ordered the original shawl, I wanted to add a small, royal gesture — and that’s how the Duchess Gloves were born.
These crocheted fingerless gloves were made using the same yarn as the shawl, following the same design language. The top of the hand features a lacy detail with the familiar shell stitch from the Duchess Shawl, while the rest of the glove is worked in double crochet, crocheted in the round from wrist toward the fingers. They have two openings — one for the thumb, and another for the remaining four fingers — for a perfect fit.
The finishing touch? A delicate organza ribbon, laced in a criss-cross corset style across the top of the hand. This sweet, romantic detail was a favorite among customers and gave the gloves a charming, feminine flair.
🎨 Themes Behind the Collection
Across all the Duchess designs, a few themes repeat:
Circular vs. angular: Each piece explores shape in its own way.
Elegance through structure: These garments are dramatic but wearable.
Creative growth: Each new piece grows from the last — a visual story in yarn.
Whether you want to wrap yourself in a classic shawl, a cozy shrug, or something a little unexpected, there’s a Duchess waiting for you.
📚 Related Tutorials and Resources
Want to make your own Duchess-inspired piece?
- 🧵 Learn how to crochet in the round seamlessly: Invisible Seams Tutorial
- 💠 See how a circle became a shrug: Duchess Shrugdigan Construction
- 🔄 Curious about playing with symmetry in design? Flip the pieces in Moon Duchess.
Explore Free Crochet Tutorials
If you’re inspired to make your own Duchess shawl, wrap, or gloves, you’ll find a range of FREE crochet tutorials within this collection. Simply click on the item that interests you to access detailed instructions, diagrams, and helpful tips. Each tutorial provides step-by-step guidance, making it easy for both beginners and experienced crocheters to create a beautiful handmade accessory.
In addition to the patterns, you’ll also find detailed information about each piece, including material recommendations, yarn types, hook sizes, and styling suggestions. Whether you’re looking for a cozy wrap for chilly evenings, an elegant shawl for a special occasion, or stylish gloves to complete your outfit, the Duchess Collection has something for everyone.
Final Note
I never planned for the Duchess Shawl to grow into a collection. But that’s the magic of making: one idea leads to another, and before you know it, you’ve created something bigger than you imagined.
Crocheting is more than just a craft—it’s an art form that allows you to express your creativity while making timeless, wearable pieces. The Duchess Collection embodies this philosophy, offering designs that are both beautiful and practical. These pieces make wonderful additions to your own wardrobe or heartfelt gifts for loved ones who appreciate the charm of handmade accessories.
Explore the Duchess Collection today and discover the joy of creating your own elegant crochet accessories!
I hope these designs inspire you to follow your own creative threads — wherever they may lead.
The Most Popular Item
Check why Duchess Shawl is currently the most popular item in the named collection but also among other shawls.
Made in several colours – grey, light grey, dark grey, gold, or bronze, each shawl can have silver thread weaved in the garment at your desire. With the shawl, every customer receives a gift – fingerless gloves, which are a part of this lavish set.
Explore More Collections
If you enjoy working with one pattern in different ways, explore my other collections:
Pineapple Collection | Moonchild Collection | Mexicana Collection