As soon as fall turns to winter, people are looking for those pieces of clothing that will keep in your body heat and ward off the bone-chilling cold temperatures. The sweater is the perfect place to start. The history of the sweater began when fishermen’s wives knitted them tops out of wool, in order to keep out the cold and dampness while they were out on their fishing expeditions. The natural oil that was in the wool gave it a water repellant quality, which came in handy out on the sea. When the use of the garment spread from Europe to America, it acquired its current day name of the sweater.
One group that has maintained the use of fine yarns such as Merino and Donegal wool is the Irish. Since the 1890’s, hand knit Aran and Irish sweaters have made their way into appreciative customer hands. At The Irish Store, they have sourced a full range of men’s knitwear from some of the most prestigious Irish suppliers in Ireland. Each individual knitting pattern reflects the family history of the knitters throughout generations.
One example is the Fisherman’s Rib Crew Neck Sweater. It is a classic Aran design and knitted out of 100% pure with a ribbed collar, fully fashioned arm holes, ribbed cuffs, and with a longer torso that will keep you covered and warm for those outdoor events. It is probably the same kind of design that West End Knitwear descendant, Kate O’Shea, was selling in 1856 to keep her village’s fishermen warm. This crew neck sweater comes in navy, beige, charcoal, or green for $84.95.
Another of my favorite sweaters from The Irish Store is the Handmade Irish Aran Men’s Button-down Cardigan. This particular sweater has great texture with the diamond cable and infinity pattern knit designs. The cardigan is a staple layering item in any man’s wardrobe and this one is chunky, without being bulky, and has fashion detailing in the shawl collar. It comes in oatmeal and charcoal colors for $99.95 with $6.95 shipping and free returns worldwide. The Irish Store also has the added bonus of no sales tax on orders headed to the USA, so you will have a few extra bucks to spend!
