History Of The Aran Sweater

Comfortable, cosy, luxurious, warm, woollen, knitted, patterned, intricate, authentic, stylish, designer and textured are but a few words that can be used to describe an Irish Aran sweater but what is an Aran sweater? It is a style of sweater, also known as a fisherman’s sweater, which originated in the Aran Islands in Connemara, off the west coast of Ireland. These sweaters were traditionally knit in the natural colour of sheep’s wool, an off-white or cream colour. The natural sheep's wool retained their oils making these sweaters waterproof and perfect for the Irish weather. Originally these sweaters were knit by mothers and wives for the islander men who worked as farmers and fishermen but they have since become a fashion statement and a global symbol of Irishness.