Fair Isle knits conjure images of open fires in chalets perched among snowy mountains. They’re the clothing equivalent of a hot water bottle
If you add a Fair Isle jumper to your winter rotation you’ll enjoy some hygge in sweater form. Originating on the eponymous island in Shetland, the Fair Isle jumper uses a traditional knitting technique that creates patterns using multiple colours at once. With their intricate patterns and artisanal credentials these knits are loved by designers, including Molly Goddard (pictured left), who has created a new spin on the style each season alongside her tulle skirts. Ralph Lauren’s British heritage aesthetic also favours the design, while Khaite’s creative director Catherine Holstein showed multiple versions of the printed knit, from a traditional turtleneck sweater to a street-style hoodie.
Be prepared to play fast and loose with the term Fair Isle while browsing online. It’s very much “inspired by” territory on the high street. Purists should try a hand-knitted jumper by Fair Isle with Marie, £365, or a fisherman’s kep (woolly hat), £85. If you’re handy with the knitting needles, you can download a pattern for £10 and whip up your own (fairislewithmarie.com). Knitwear specialists Eribé also offers made-in-Scotland styles for men and women, from £188.
Fair Isle knits conjure images of open fires in chalets perched among snowy mountains. They’re the clothing equivalent of a hot water bottleIf you add a Fair Isle jumper to your winter rotation you’ll enjoy some hygge in sweater form. Originating on the eponymous island in Shetland, the Fair Isle jumper uses a traditional knitting technique that creates patterns using multiple colours at once. With their intricate patterns and artisanal credentials these knits are loved by designers, including Molly Goddard (pictured left), who has created a new spin on the style each season alongside her tulle skirts. Ralph Lauren’s British heritage aesthetic also favours the design, while Khaite’s creative director Catherine Holstein showed multiple versions of the printed knit, from a traditional turtleneck sweater to a street-style hoodie.Be prepared to play fast and loose with the term Fair Isle while browsing online. It’s very much “inspired by” territory on the high street. Purists should try a hand-knitted jumper by Fair Isle with Marie, £365, or a fisherman’s kep (woolly hat), £85. If you’re handy with the knitting needles, you can download a pattern for £10 and whip up your own (fairislewithmarie.com). Knitwear specialists Eribé also offers made-in-Scotland styles for men and women, from £188. Continue reading…
