Solid, neutral sweaters [1] are cool, but it's hard to beat the rustic charm of a cosy Fair Isle sweater. The kitschy-but-timeless look has been a coveted one for hundreds of years and a fan favourite of the British royal family.
Ready for a little fashion history? According to BBC [2], the uniquely festive knit design was originated by the people of Fair Isle (an island north of Scotland) way back in the early 1800s for local fisherman to wear. It caught on, and here I am in the year 2021, sitting on my couch, combing the internet for the same pattern. Talk about a style with staying power.
If you're looking for a sweater that's mega cosy and just a little bit whimsical, Fair Isle is the perfect starting point. I've made your hunt for the perfect Fair Isle sweater easy by picking 13 of the cutest ones. The hard part will be choosing which one (or two . . .) to buy.
For a Slight Puff Sleeve: Gap Cosy Fair Isle Sweater
This neutral Gap Cosy Fair Isle Sweater [4] ($85) number is an easy upgrade to the "sweater, jeans, boots" formula, thanks to the subtle puff sleeve.
For Autumnal Hues: Tory Burch French Cream Multi Fairisle Sweater
I love the burgundy and marigold colour combo in this Tory Burch French Cream Multi Fairisle Sweater [5] ($398).
The Roomy Option: Levi's® Slouchy Crewneck Sweater
The oversize look of Levi's® Slouchy Crewneck Sweater [6] ($80) gives this one a "grandpa sweater" but cool(er) vibe.
A Pop of Pink: Old Navy Crew Neck Fair Isle Sweater
Who says winter has to be about neutrals? If pink is your power colour, look no further than this Old Navy Crew Neck Fair Isle Sweater [7] ($45).
A Cosy Button-Up: Doen Hue Cardigan
Layer a delicate knit cami under this Doen Hue Cardigan Sweater [8] ($295) and pop on some gold hoops, and you've got yourself a winter look worth repeating.
For Dog Lovers: Rachel Antonoff Oscar Sweater
Who doesn't love a novelty sweater? The wiener dog motif on this Rachel Antonoff Oscar Sweater [9] ($295) is hard to beat.
A Neutral Palette: Geometric Jacquard Sweater Mango USA
The Mango Geometric Jacquard Sweater [10] ($80) has a preppy teddy bear aesthetic, no?
A Bubble Gum Pink Layer: LoveShackFancy Honeypie Boyfriend Cardigan
With pearly buttons and feminine flourishes galore, LoveShackFancy Honeypie Boyfriend Cardigan [11] ($495) is a total statement piece.
A Playful Take on Fair Isle: Tach Clothing Prisca Knit Cardigan
This Tach Clothing Prisca Knit Cardigan [12] ($274) feels like a modern interpretation of the Fair Isle look, incorporating neon colours and charmingly mismatched patterns.
A Monochrome Moment: Tory Sport Merino Fair Isle Sweater
Pair the Tory Sport Merino Fair Isle Sweater [13] ($298) with black leather joggers and sneakers, and — voila! — you have your winter uniform.
A Lighter Layer: Ulla Johnson Robin Fair Isle Henley Top
Not in the market for a chunky sweater but still want in on the Fair Isle fun? This Ulla Johnson Robin Fair Isle Henley Top [14] ($295) is a lighter layer for fall and winter dressing.
A Chunky Knit Option: Saylor Susanna Fair Isle Cable Knit Sweater
This Saylor Susanna Fair Isle Cable Knit Sweater [15] ($255) is a sweater that means business. With its chunky, heavyweight texture, you'll be both warm and styling in this option.
The Investment Piece: A.L.C. Oakley Sweater
The A.L.C. Oakley Sweater [16] ($475) is the kind of cherish-it-forever investment piece you'll whip out of your closet year after year.