Irish Sweaters for Women
Irish sweaters are a popular garment due to their style, appeal, and warmth. While the style of sweater was originally created for the hard working fisherman and farmers on the coasts of Ireland, today people from all walks of life have an Irish sweater in their wardrobe.
Irish sweaters are identified by their bulky knit with intricate cable patterns. The sweaters are also known as Aran sweaters, so named for the Aran Islands off the coast of Ireland where the sweater style originated. Two of the mainstays of the island economy were fishing and farming. Sheep were widely raised across the islands. The sweaters were spun from the wool of the sheep grown on the islands and the natural fiber yarn created a water repellent garment that remained breathable as well, a boon for the residents of the cold and wet climate of the islands.
Through the generations, each family or clan developed their own patterns by which individuals were easily identified. The heritage of these sweaters has been carefully preserved and a registry can be found in the Aran Sweater Museum on the Aran Islands.
The types of stitch found within the irish sweaters is also full of symbols and meaning. The combination of patterns would tell a story and extend a blessing to the wearer from the maker. The cable stitch represented the fisherman and was a wish for a bountiful day at sea. The Tree of Life stitch was a wish for a strong and healthy family and long life. The diamond stitch represents wealth and success.
While worn by both sexes and all ages, irish sweaters for women are very popular. Just as with women’s tunics, the irish sweaters are found in both pullover styles as well as women cardigan sweaters with a button or zip front.
Irish sweaters are not only beautiful garments, but are also a relic of a rich heritage.
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