For me, nothing signals the advent of the coldest season like the re-emergence of the Fair Isle jumper. The mere sight evokes fond feelings of warmth, cosiness and a particular slowness that is only afforded on those chilliest of days.
As we’ve experienced a drastic drop in temperature over the past few days, I’m starting to notice the chunky knit remerge on the city’s most stylish. Ever ahead of the curve, naturally it was Alexa Chung who first caught my eye for her relaxed yet polished styling of the cosy jumper. Wearing hers to a cocktail party in London, Chung gave her casual knit a neater feel through the use of clever styling. Opting for a straight leg white trousers, polished leather loafers and a smart leather blazer, Chung’s autumn evening outfit included structure throughout, which neatened the feel of the casual jumper outfit.
Heralding from Fair Isle, an Island in Shetland, Scotland, the Fair Isle knit is marked by a traditional knitting technique that creates patterns in the knit using multiple colours at once. From this small town the style spread, eventually making its way across the globe, crafted by high-street retailers and designer brands who have put their own touch on the traditional knit.
Supremely snug—typically crafted from wool, cashmere or alpaca, the Fair Isle knit pairs perfectly with slouchy wool trousers or simple denim jeans. The addition of a thermal layer or crisp tee underneath will keep you cosy on a bracing afternoon walk or into the evening hours during a relaxed night at the pub.
A mainstay in every wardrobe throughout the ’80s, the Fair Isle knit was once associated with frizzy fibres and a scratchy finish, but this year’s styles are a far cry from their predecessors. From H&M’s perfectly slouchy jumper to Khaite’s perfect turtleneck, shop the best Fair Isle jumpers for winter below.
This knit’s relaxed neutral tones mean that it can be styled with the majority of your wardrobe.
The turtleneck of my dreams. Khaite’s perfect knit has made its way to the top of my wish list.
Espresso brown is the growing colour trend of the season.
Every fashion person will be flocking to Ganni this winter to get their hands on this delightful oversized knit.
Throw this over your comfiest T-shirt for a warm winter outfit you’ll be coming back to all season.
I’d wear with chocolate brown trousers for the perfect winter-ready look.
Style with dark wash jeans and lug-sole boots.
This oversized knit features a ribbing at the cuff, neck and hem for a neat finish.
Add an easy splash of colour to your winter wardrobe.
Massimo Dutti’s muted knit styles so well with leather trousers and jackets.
Composed of pure merino wool, this chunky knit has a slightly slouchy finish.
Style with beige trousers for a tonal and perfectly cohesive look.
Wear with metallic trousers for some festive flair.
So chic, so cosy.
Composed of wool and mohair, this lofty jumper will keep you warm in style.
