J Crew Fair Isle Sweater

Fair Isle Sweaters

Nothing says cute, preppy and Christmas more than tartan and Fair Isle sweaters.  The next couple weeks will be filled with holiday parties, cookie and ornament exchanges, family get-together gift swaps.  With so many fun events coming up we want to look cute and be comfortable, right?  That is not easily achieved in an ugly Christmas sweater (can you tell I’m not a fan of this trend).  What I am a fan of is the classics.  That’s why I’m a huge fan of Fair Isle sweaters!  

What is a Fair Isle Sweater?

Fair Isle is a traditional knitting technique used to create patterns with multiple colors.  It is named after Fair Isle, a tiny island in the north of Scotland. 

When to wear a Fair Isle Sweater?

These sweaters scream festive with their classic patterns and colors.  Perfect for that holiday party or gift exchange.  However, don’t pack them up after the holidays.  You can wear these sweaters well into January and February.  These sweaters are perfect for the chalet on a ski weekend, a cozy country getaway, a cold city night or a casual weekend at home.    

Are Fair Isle Sweaters in style?

Hello.  Have they ever been out of style?  Just look around.  They are everywhere!  They are officially fashionable.  Not only are they stylish, they are warm, comfortable and affordable!

I’ve put together a list of my favorite cozy and classic Fair Isle sweaters.  You can look festive, classic and cute this winter without going the “ugly” route.   FYI click the titles for direct links to the sweaters and where you can buy them.  

J Crew Fair Isle Sweater
J Crew Fair Isle Sweater
J Crew Fair Isle Sweater

This is my favorite Fair Isle sweater!  Guess that’s why I own this one!  It’s from J Crew Factory.  The colors pop, especially in pics.  Made of cotton.  Can match it with anything.  Wear with tartan pants, jeans and can be dressed up or down.  Also comes in gray and pink but I don’t think it compares with the colors of this one.  Has a good weight to it.  Heavy enough to be warm but not bulky.  

LL Bean Fair Isle Sweater

I love this one from L.L. Bean.  Made from premium lambswool.  It is slightly fitted and falls at hip.  It softly shapes the body.  Fits TTS.  Sweater is softer than other ragg sweaters I’ve tried.  I absolutely love the navy.  L.L. Bean 20% off order with code CHEER20 (ends Dec. 17). 

Old Navy Fair Isle Sweater

This one is a soft cotton blend.  Has small side slits for a casual look.  Again, I love the navy color.  Perfect for a day of watching Netflix and drinking cocoa on the couch!

Halogen Fair Isle Sweater

A little twist on the classic style with a geometric take on the Fair Isle motif.  I love the cute raglan sleeves also.  

Madewell Fair Isle Sweater

This antique cream color with hint of navy and muted pink makes me swoon.  This sweater has a rolled hem sleeve.  It is thick and soft.  Runs a little big.  Not enough to size down.

Knox Rose Target Fair Isle Sweater

Fair Isle pattern carried down to sleeve.  Sweater has a soft eyelash construction.  Adds a textured look to this sweater.  Has a split hem and fabric is more lightweight.  Both the red and black are classic looks that would get a lot of use this winter.