The famous Aran jumper – timeless, classic, and stylish – originates from the time fishermen wore them to keep warm at sea.
Aran jumpers are a beautiful creation of intricately knitted cables and bobbles that can only be created with handknitting rather than commercial knitting techniques. They are an important part of Irish ancestry, with specific patterns linked to specific clans and families.
In the constantly changing and ever-evolving world of fashion, Aran knits have stood the test of time. Consistently recognised for their style and timeless charm, they are a firm wardrobe favourite for both sexes. Let’s take a look at why this is:
A classic style staple, steeped in tradition whilst remaining on trend, Aran knits are one of the most durable and robust pieces of clothing. They keep you warm and cosy in chillier months whilst being breathable and moisture-wicking in warmer climates.
They are crafted to last, using traditional, authentic methods. Made from high-quality 100% wool, Aran jumpers remain in good condition even after repeated washing and wearing, always retaining their shape and quality.
An Aran jumper not only holds its own in the style stakes but also offers unrivalled longevity throughout the years and the changing seasons.
High-quality Aran sweaters offer great movement, flexibility, comfort, and temperature-regulating qualities. They are all-year-round pieces that transition seamlessly through the seasons.
Stockists
Aran sweaters, which are also known as fisherman sweaters, are available to purchase online for quick, easy, and convenient shipping directly to your home. They come in a variety of styles and sizes, with a selection suitable for both ladies and men; in addition, you will find children’s styles, items such as scarves and mittens, and home accessories such as Aran throws available from some stockists.
For a selection of mens fisherman sweater styles alongside Aran sweaters for women and children, companies such as shoparan.com/mens-aran-sweaters/mens-fisherman-sweaters/ have a wide selection.
So robust is the Aran sweater that it often retains its quality and finish for such a long time that it is passed down through the generations.
Where the Aran style came from
The Aran jumper takes its name from the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland. Its roots are often traced further afield, though. One account holds that women from Guernsey, in the Channel Islands, shared their knitting skills and style with the women of Aran in the middle of the nineteenth century, and the islanders soon made the craft their own.
The classic version is white, with large cable stitches running down the front and along the sleeves. As more people took up knitting their own clothing, the designs grew steadily more intricate.
Knitting also became a source of income on the islands. Knitters began producing jumpers in larger numbers to earn more, and demand for the style grew with them. That mix of practical warmth and craft is a large part of why the jumper is still popular today.
Colours, garments and choosing a genuine piece
Although the traditional Aran is white or cream, the style now comes in many colours, including black, navy, green, grey, light blue, pink and orange. The same cable patterns appear on far more than jumpers, from cardigans and coats to scarves, gloves and mittens, so it is easy to add a touch of Aran to an outfit.
Good quality wool keeps an Aran comfortable across much of the year, and plenty of people wear theirs outdoors in the summer months too.
If authenticity matters to you, look for a maker with a strong reputation for original Irish knitwear and a clear promise that the garment is 100% wool. A careful knitter pays attention to every detail, and the better makers also follow fair trade practices and respect the local environment.