FashionUnited Marketplace.
What it is:
Geometric patterns are the defining mark of a Fair Isle sweater, a staple
knitwear item that has made its way from the coast of 18th century Scotland
to the runways of luxury designers. The sweater aptly takes its name from
the Fair Isles, where it is believed that a fisherman began experimenting
with the look firstly in the form of hats. Now, this piece of former
fishing workwear has become a classic, favoured by luxury labels
year-after-year for their autumn/winter runways. The knit itself takes its
own distinguished shape, an ‘OXO’ pattern that is repeated throughout the
garment, while prints that adorn the garment can range from fellow farm
animals to winter-themed symbology.
Brora. Credits: FashionUnited
Marketplace.
Why you’ll want it:
As mentioned, the Fair Isle sweater has become somewhat of a fashion
wardrobe must-have, endorsed by luxury labels and celebrities alike, who
have increasingly taken to the piece of knitwear over recent years. As
such, while the premise of the design has remained firmly in place, it has
seen a series of contemporary updates, namely in the way of colours and
pattern, the latter of which can now be found beyond just the neckline and
often instead traverses the body of the entire garment. These updates have
ensured that the sweater remains steadfast in the relevance of the
ever-evolving consumer, the younger of which are favouring these
generationally nostalgic items as part of current trends.
Madewell. Credits: FashionUnited
Marketplace.
Where we’ve seen it:
There was a slew of Fair Isle sweaters on the autumn/winter 2024 runway,
with menswear brands in particular showing a certain affinity for the look.
Among those incorporating a more traditional take on the design were the
likes of Officine Générale, Sacai and Kolor. The latter two brought in a
bold yellow hue for their own patterns, yet still stuck largely to subdued
colours elsewhere. This contrasted with the styles of Loewe and White
Mountaineering, both of which extended their geometric patterns down the
length of their garments, and infused a mix of shades into their intricate
designs.
Pieces. Credits: FashionUnited
Marketplace.
How to style it:
Looking at styling for transitional periods, the Fair Isle sweater can be
incorporated into an academia-inspired look. Pair the piece with a short,
pleated skirt or shorts and round it off with loafers, ankle socks and a
cap for a simple daily combination. For colder weather, the sweater can be
worn with any form of trouser, be it wide-cut jeans, baggy corduroys or
tailored office pants with a loose-fit. Each pant style works well with a
variety of shoe types, but white sneakers are a simple and effective
footwear to finish the outfit off.
Selected Homme. Credits: FashionUnited
Marketplace.
While its background and roots may be based deep in the confines of a
fisherman’s wardrobe, the Fair Isle sweater has worked its way up to become
something of a luxury staple. This has given way to modernised
interpretations of the look from high street brands, bringing the sweater
to a new, younger audience who are discovering its versatility for the
first time.
Na-kd. Credits: FashionUnited
Marketplace.
Similar items available for (pre)order can be found in the FashionUnited
Marketplace. You can
find them by clicking on this link.
http://dlvr.it/T5JSGV
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