There’s a renaissance in Fair Isle knits out there at the moment, som
e perfect as winter warmers, as sexy bodycon dresses worn with bare legs and (presumably) Ugg boots, or black sheer or opaque tights, or as chunky knitwear with jeans.If you’re a country girl at heart and you love Fair Isle, or you want to wear it because it’s a current look these are some of the most attractive Fair Isle sweaters and dresses around. Perfect to wear when it’s cold and over the festive season.
The very best Fair Isle knitwear is in pure wool, such as the knitwear here by Antwerp based Scottish brand Howlin’ by Morrison, with every piece being crafted in either Scotland or Ireland.
It doesn’t matter what colour scheme you go for, Fair Isle passes the test of time, is instantly recognisable and will stay a favourite for years – so traditional that whether in or out of fashion’s momentary whim it’s always a winter favourite.
There are numerous versions of Fair Isle knitwear out there – some will flatter and others, dresses particularly in lighter colours, are going to be more difficult to pull off. But every girl needs at least one piece of Fair Isle in her wardrobe to cosy up in in front of the fire, particularly if it’s snowing outside.
Did you know? Fair Isle is the most remote inhabited island in the United Kingdom and it part of the Shetland Isles. It is famous for its bird observatory, and for the traditional Fair Isle traditional knitting technique used to create patterns with multiple colours.
Fair Isle knitwear first gained popularity when the Prince of Wales (who became Edward VIII) publicly wore sleeveless Fair Isle knit sweaters in 1921. Traditionally there is a limited palette of about five colours in each Fair Isle knit, with two colours being used per row. They are knitted on circular knitting needles and each colour run is limited.
