Vintage Sass

I really like this little top.  It's from the 1942 Complete Guide to Knitting and Crocheting.  What I like in particular is the way the cables stop so abruptly and at different heights, creating such visual interest.  Also the picot edge on the sleeves is just adorable.
I'm kicking around the idea of giving this pattern a go.  My major concern is whether or not I'd get much wear out of it.  Cute as they are, short sleeve cardis can be terribly impractical - too hot in summer and not enough coverage in winter.  One could make the sleeves long but I feel somehow that would alter too greatly the original intent of the garment. Make it less sassy.
So.  Very.  Cute.
I've some mulling to do.