Daniel RidingIt may be of little surprise to most that the obsession for knitwear here at MFM has risen dramatically. We love how we can layer, and we love how much knitwear we have an excuse to buy now thanks to the sudden drop in temperature. While the chill is definitely not something to look forward to, the choice in clothing and in particular knitwear is something to be stylishly thankful for. It is something about being British that brings forth a sense of tradition and with our current infatuation with all things knitwear, it only seems right to take a look at one of the more traditional forms of knitwear pieces.
The cable knit sweater has been around for a long time; in fact they first originated in the Aran Islands of Ireland. Traditionally known as the Aran sweater fisherman’s sweaters due to the origins of its wearers, they were made from unwashed wool because of the natural lanolin oils present within the fibres to give these sweaters a waterproof quality. Although most of these types of sweaters are not made from unwashed wool, those made from wool are still quite water resistant and help the wearer to remain warm even when wet. The majority of the sweaters still are made from wool, but they may also be made from cotton and other fabrics, as well.
Cosy & Comfortable
What makes this kind of sweater so popular is the thickness in which they are made. Thick cosy knitwear is perfect this winter and when you add traditional, thick, cable knit into the mix you have a winning piece of men’s clothing. In particular this season, the folks here at MFM are feeling slightly partial to cable knit sweaters that features high and thick collars. Colours and styles are showing a nice varied mix to which gives a more modern and contemporary feel to something otherwise so strictly traditional.
One of the many great things about a decent piece of cable knitwear is how transitional it is between styles and occasions. For example a casual look may consist of, jeans, boots, and a super thick oversized cable knit sweater. Whereas a more formal occasion could allow for a look which is made up of tailored trousers, smart shoes, shirt, bow tie and a high collared cable knit jumper. Now with the high street making it’s mark this season you are most definitely never short on choice, and you will never be stuck for finding the right piece of cable knitwear just for you.
Second Hand Knits
If once you find yourself becoming bored with your cable knit pieces, we suggest you don’t aim them towards the bin. Keep them to wear around the house whilst you’re are relaxing, or just generally having a lazy evening. From personal experience I have found that an old baggy cable knit jumper goes really well with an old film, popcorn and an alcoholic beverage or two. The ideal way to make that chilly evening, so much better than initially thought is just to throw on that trusty cable knit sweater. We are also in the generation of vintage and second hand, so do yourself a favour and check out the local charity shops or even better your local vintage shops. You never know what treasures you may find. In particular if you do aim for a vintage piece, you will find that quality is so much better than that of today’s high street. Don’t forget, many years ago there wasn’t really this idea of mass produced items so pieces were made to last.
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Last Word
This trusty piece of knitwear has become a staple piece amongst the wardrobes of many stylish gents, and with the cable becoming a focal point we don’t see any harm in jumping on board this trend. The variety of pieces to chose from means that you won’t look like you are following a trend but simply making a trend you own. So don’t forget, it’s about to get really cold and very soon too so you may want to hurry up and incest in a few stylish cable knit pieces. You don’t want to get caught out in the cold (literally).