Why Aran Sweaters are still so Popular
The Aran sweater got labelled so because of where it originated from many many generations ago. Located off the west coast of Ireland, the Aran islands rose up boldly out of the Atlantic sea and is an impressive sight of towering cliffs and stone walls. Due to the cold Atlantic temperatures and wind, it is no place for wearing a t-shirt and that’s just why the Aran sweater came about!
The Aran Islands are world famous for creating the legendary Aran sweater which is so sought after by thousands of people from every corner of the globe.
It is said that the very first Aran sweater was knitted back in the 17th century. Back then, the lives of the inhabitants of the Islands revolved mainly around the fishing and farming industries. The Aran sweaters were produced as a means of keeping them warm while out working. Each sweater was weaved a different way and the different stitches symbolised a family crest which have since been passed down through the generations.
The Aran sweater is one of the very few clothing items that have lasted the test of time. They are still as popular today as they ever were and there are many reasons why:
- Every Aran sweater is made with great care and the finest attention to detail. There is an estimated 100,000 stitches in every single sweater and each stitch represents Irish folklore and traditions. Owning your very own Aran sweater can give you a sense of pride and make you feel warm on the inside as well as on the outside.
- As it is made with natural wool, it is an extremely beneficial garment to wear when working outside in the cold. It is naturally breathable and will maintain correct body temperature regardless of how changeable the weather becomes.
- The sweater is water repellant and will provide you with protection from the rain. Even when it gets wet, it will still keep you warm.
- Buying an Aran sweater is almost like making an investment as they are known for their durability. It is something that will most definitely last you a very long time and will remain a key piece in your wardrobe for years to come.
- The sweater is one that is instantly recognisable and is considered to be very stylish. They look very attractive and can now be got in a range of different colours and styles to suit everyone in the family.
Nowadays, Aran sweaters may either be machine knit or produced on a hand loom. There are not too many genuine hand knit sweaters around but you can still get your hands on one at local craft fairs or at an Irish knitwear store.
Machine knitted sweaters use finer wool and consist of less complex patterns and stitches in comparison to a hand knitted sweater. Many of the original stitches and patterns cannot be produced using a machine and therefore it may not feel as authentic.
Hand-looming does allow for more complex patterns and stitches to be used and will have fewer stitches to the inch. It would be hard to tell the difference between a good quality hand-loomed sweater and a genuine hand knitted one.
So, if it’s authenticity you’re after and you’re willing to pay that little bit extra, a hand knitted Aran sweater is the best way to go.
About the Author:
Sharon O’Neill is a freelance blogger who writes on lifestyle topics. Sharon enjoys hill walking in and around the Dublin mountians.
