Cable Cardigan with Collar and Pockets

The Ladies Collared Button Cardigan from Saol, a contemporary maker of Irish knits, is a beautiful and elegant example of a classic Irish sweater. A cream colored, cabled sweater is as quintessentially Irish as flat caps, shamrocks, and pints of Guinness. The sweaters originated in the Aran Islands, where the local fisherman faced wet and cold conditions in their daily work out in the Atlantic Ocean. The islanders began knitting crewneck sweaters made from undyed sheep wool—the wool contained lanolin, an oily substance that made the knits repel water—and decorating them with thick cabled patterns that added extra weight, and thus, warmth.

Now, no fisherman has to brave the elements in wool alone, and Aran-style sweaters have become a staple in the fashion world. Today’s Irish knits focus on comfort and fit, instead, and this lovely cardigan is no exception. Intricate cable designs of varying sizes decorate the body and sleeves. The cabled collar looks elegant when down, but it can also be folded up for extra warmth. The feminine cardigan is available in natural white, green, or grey, and matching buttons run down the front, making it an excellent layer, open or closed. Need a place to hold your phone or keys? Two small cabled pockets on the garment’s front offer a little extra storage, or a spot to warm up chilled hands.

Knitted from 100% Merino wool that has been pre-washed for luxurious softness. To care for your cardigan, hand wash only, using a mild detergent and lukewarm water. Reshape if needed and dry flat.