This modern Ladies Long Front Open Drape Cardigan is an elegant update on a classic Irish design. The iconic Irish sweater we know today originated in the 1890s as a way to keep fishermen from the Aran Islands warm and dry while at sea. The heavy knits featured intricate cables that added weight and warmth to the sweater, and the lanolin-rich sheep wool repelled rainwater and salt spray, despite being very itchy. Today, Irish sweaters need not be so technical, and instead, can offer more elegance and comfort.
Saol, a leading Irish knitwear producer, offers traditional Irish cabled sweaters and other knits in contemporary colors and silhouettes. This lovely draped open front cardigan for women is crafted from a wonderfully soft Merino wool blend that keeps the wearer warm and comfortable—no more scratchy sheep wool! It is available in both navy and grey, and the elegant, long shape hits most wearers at mid-thigh. Beautifully detailed cables run down the front sides of the cardigan, reflecting the long history of Aran knitwear. Cabled patch pockets are perfect for keeping the wearer’s hands warm on chilly fall or winter walks.
No buttons or zippers make this cardigan an easy and attractive option to toss on as a top layer or even use as a light jacket on milder winter days. The wool blend makes it easy to care for, as well. We recommend using a mild detergent to hand wash your cardigan in lukewarm water. Reshape if necessary and lay flat to dry.
