The Classic Fair Isle Sweater Continues to Charm the Street Style Set

The Fair Isle sweater has long been a cold weather wardrobe staple, synonymous with skiers on the slope to even members of The Royal Family–the style rose to fame under the Prince of Wales in the 1920s. Named after one of the Shetland Islands off the coast of Scotland, the classic knitting technique has been reimagined adoringly on notable knitwear from ultra-luxe designers from Saint Laurent and Alexander McQueen to the high street. Stylish street stylers have also made the Fair Isle sweater cool again, wearing them as sweater vests over crisp white shirting, with a-line midi skirts, or tucked into a tailored-to-perfection trouser. On the fall runways each season, you can expect a Fair Isle sweater or two, but no designer is as synonymous with the style as Molly Goddard. From chunky crewnecks to sleek knit tanks, you can always expect the British designer to showcase the nostalgic, retro-to-wear sweater staple in more ways than one.

Fair Isle sweaters are a forever fall classic season after season, thanks to chic and cozy styles from Tory Burch, La Ligne, Dôen, and more. Back to Tory Burch–you can always count on the brand for notable knitwear and, more importantly, for Fair Isle statement sweaters that seamlessly transition from the slopes to the streets. This fall, their merino wool lime green turtleneck is one to invest in. The style also presents itself on stylishly smart sweater vests from Rag & Bone, Ganni, and Scotch & Soda. Throw a well-loved tee underneath for a casual yet polished look or layer an elegant fall coat over top for sartorial success. Oversized, relaxed-fit mock necks and cardigans are also making their market rounds courtesy of Derek Lam 10 Crosby and Staud. Preppy retro v-neck styles are also trending from Re/Done and Polo Ralph Lauren. You can even dress up the statement sweater for nights out with Victoria Beckham’s and Ashish’s knits, which come adorned with crystal metallic embellishment.

This fall, the Fair Isle sweater trend is a chic and cozy wardrobe essential to invest in. Below, shop 3 of the best Fair Isle sweaters to stay forever stylish and cool for that matter.