13 Fair Isle Sweaters to Help You Channel Cottagecore Vibes All Winter Long
Solid, neutral sweaters are cool, but it's hard to beat the rustic charm of a cozy Fair Isle sweater. The kitschy-but-timeless look has been a coveted one for hundreds of years and a fan favorite of the British royal family.
Ready for a little fashion history? According to BBC, 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 cozy 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.
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A Neutral Palette: Geometric Jacquard Sweater Mango USA
The Mango Geometric Jacquard Sweater ($80) has a preppy teddy bear aesthetic, no?
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For Autumnal Hues: Tory Burch French Cream Multi Fairisle Sweater
I love the burgundy and marigold color combo in this Tory Burch French Cream Multi Fairisle Sweater ($398).
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A Pop of Pink: Old Navy Crew Neck Fair Isle Sweater
Who says winter has to be about neutrals? If pink is your power color, look no further than this Old Navy Crew Neck Fair Isle Sweater ($45).
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A Monochrome Moment: Tory Sport Merino Fair Isle Sweater
Pair the Tory Sport Merino Fair Isle Sweater ($298) with black leather joggers and sneakers, and — voila! — you have your winter uniform.
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A Bubble Gum Pink Layer: LoveShackFancy Honeypie Boyfriend Cardigan
With pearly buttons and feminine flourishes galore, LoveShackFancy Honeypie Boyfriend Cardigan ($495) is a total statement piece.
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For a Slight Puff Sleeve: Gap Cozy Fair Isle Sweater
This neutral Gap Cozy Fair Isle Sweater ($85) number is an easy upgrade to the "sweater, jeans, boots" formula, thanks to the subtle puff sleeve.
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A Cozy Button-Up: Doen Hue Cardigan
Layer a delicate knit cami under this Doen Hue Cardigan Sweater ($295) and pop on some gold hoops, and you've got yourself a winter look worth repeating.
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The Roomy Option: Levi's® Slouchy Crewneck Sweater
The oversize look of Levi's® Slouchy Crewneck Sweater ($80) gives this one a "grandpa sweater" but cool(er) vibe.
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A Playful Take on Fair Isle: Tach Clothing Prisca Knit Cardigan
This Tach Clothing Prisca Knit Cardigan ($274) feels like a modern interpretation of the Fair Isle look, incorporating neon colors and charmingly mismatched patterns.
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For Dog Lovers: Rachel Antonoff Oscar Sweater
Who doesn't love a novelty sweater? The wiener dog motif on this Rachel Antonoff Oscar Sweater ($295) is hard to beat.
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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 ($295) is a lighter layer for fall and winter dressing.
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A Chunky Knit Option: Saylor Susanna Fair Isle Cable Knit Sweater
This Saylor Susanna Fair Isle Cable Knit Sweater ($255) is a sweater that means business. With its chunky, heavyweight texture, you'll be both warm and styling in this option.
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The Investment Piece: A.L.C. Oakley Sweater
The A.L.C. Oakley Sweater ($475) is the kind of cherish-it-forever investment piece you'll whip out of your closet year after year.
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