In the northern reaches of the British Isles, flung off to one side of the Shetland Islands, lies a gem of textile history – Fair Isle knitwear. We take a closer look at the heritage behind the design the tradition we love.

Remote islands have unique advantages for cottage industries, such as pattern knitting. Untouched by outside competition, well stocked with local wool, traditional methods passed down through generations. Fair Isle, buffeted almost out of existence between Orkney and the far Shetlands is more remote than most. There’s a theory that the name actually means ‘far-off isle’. But if you’re going to make a trade to passing ships, sweaters so warm and cozy you don’t need to wear a coat over them are the way to go. Patterns drew inspiration from the island's natural surroundings, and colours echoed the sea, sky, heather-covered hills and mossy rocks. By the 1920s, everyone from sailors to royals was wearing them and those distinctive styles have been in fashion ever since. For us, their charm is enduring.