How to Wear a Fair Isle Sweater Like a Fashion Person This Winter
Don't reserve the knitwear for the holidays.
Chalk it up to being Scottish, but I've always admired Fair Isle. (Fun fact: The knitting technique originated on a remote Scottish island and dates back centuries.) IMO, the pattern is fun and festive without being too on the nose for the holidays. But for some reason, I've never owned a Fair Isle sweater—until now. Recently, I got my hands on a super-cozy Jenni Kayne cardigan, which I already know will be in heavy rotation this winter. Naturally, I've been gleaning outfit inspiration from my favorite fashion people on Instagram.
Yes, Fair Isle is practically synonymous with the holiday season, but you don't need to wait until late November to take yours for a spin. After all, if the fashion set has taught us anything, it's that intentional styling can transform any look. A Fair Isle sweater and casual jeans, for instance, make for a foolproof winter outfit perfect for weekend activities. The knit can be dressed up, too, with luxe fabrics like leather and silk. Essentially, a Fair Isle sweater is a winter mainstay for a reason.
Ahead, discover six ways to style your Fair Isle knitwear this winter, courtesy of fashion insiders.
Fair Isle Sweater + High-Rise Jeans + Leather Gloves
Give your Fair Isle sweater the spotlight it deserves by styling it with a single neutral hue—black or white work particularly well here. To keep the look from falling flat, reach for a playful accessory, like long leather opera gloves.
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Fair Isle Sweater + Blue Jeans + Suede Boots
Leave it to Olympia Gayot, J.Crew's creative director, to offer a master class in styling a Fair Isle sweater. For a day at the office, the fashion insider teamed her knit with light-wash jeans, brown suede booties, and a coordinating leather belt. No notes.
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Fair Isle Sweater + Flowy Pants + Ballet Flats
If you like to keep your outfits cohesive, try sticking to three colors. For example, if your Fair Isle sweater boasts cream, brown, and black, pull two of those shades into the rest of your ensemble. Easy enough, right?
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Fair Isle Sweater + Leggings + Beanie
Have a ski trip on the calendar? It's not too early to start planning your outfits for said excursion. A Fair Isle sweater, leggings, and suede boots make for the perfect après-ski look. Cozy meets polished.
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Fair Isle Sweater + Dark-Wash Jeans + Ballet Flats
If you're new to the Fair Isle game, there's no need to sport a bold knit. Instead, opt for a sweater with just a hint of the pattern around the neckline. From there, pair the piece with laid-back jeans and comfortable flats for an easy weekend outfit formula.
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Fair Isle Sweater + Leather Pencil Skirt + Pointed-Toe Heels
Whether you're dressing for a holiday party or work this winter, a leather pencil skirt is a luxe addition to a Fair Isle ensemble. Up the ante with pointed-toe heels, and don't forget the tights on those teeth-chattering days.
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