Irish Sweaters: Warm, Rugged and Full of History
Irish sweaters of Aran knitwear originated many generations ago in the Aran Islands, which are located at the mouth of Galway on Ireland's west coast. Fisherman frequently set sail on a stormy sea and the unpredictable Atlantic could be cold and unforgiving. Inhabitants of this area of century cliffs needed something to keep them warm and protected from the elements.
These islands are sparsely inhabited and yet those who live there, about 1,300 people, have made the place famous for Irish sweaters - specifically their highly sought after Aran knitwear. These sweaters are made of naturally oiled wool that acts as an extra barrier against the cold, moist winds that blow through the islands.
These Irish sweaters can actually absorb 30 percent of their weight in water before they really feel wet. The material breaths and draws water vapor away from the body to help stabilize the body's temperature.
Irish tradition has it that through the years many stitches and designs have been developed to help identify different families. Sweaters were originally knitted out of necessity and became tools for identification too. Knitting these Irish sweaters became an art form and different designs full of symbolism surfaced.
Some popular patters for these Irish sweaters are the honeycomb, the cable, the zigzag and the ladder. Some say the honeycomb represents hard work patterned after the industrious bees' known for their hard work.
The most famous Aran sweaters are created using cable stitches to represent the rugged ropes fishermen used to sweep the seas for a healthy harvest. These Irish sweaters are as rugged as the men who originally wore them.
There is some very rugged country in the Aran islands with cliffs that jut up in the sky and complicated rocky paths through those hills. The zigzag design in these Irish sweaters possibly represents the pathways through the islands.
It's not necessary to know the history of the Irish sweaters you wear, but if you buy a true piece of Aran knitwear, you will likely pay dearly for it. You are certain to enjoy the stylish look of the sweater regardless of where it comes from, but knowing the story of these industrious residents of Ireland will help you to feel that much warmer when you wear it.
Shop for these special Irish sweaters online and at fine department stores that specialize in imported clothing.
