Cable Knits

Let’s have a look at the origins of cable knits, why they work so well in an autumn or winter ensemble, and why you simply must have some in your drawers or closet!

The Origins of the Cable Knit

The first experiments with cable knits were said to take place in Ireland’s Aran Islands. Here, jumpers were hand-crafted for fishermen, to keep them warm in the cold and windy conditions out at sea. The knitters used very thick and intricate patterns that were said to symbolise themes like love, protection, and good luck—things fishermen needed when they ventured out on the boats. The cable knit was very thick, durable, and built to last. Small holes or unwoven threads could easily be patched up, meaning that a fisherman could wear the jumper for years. The original cable knit jumpers of the Aran Islands were made using sheep’s wool, so were both warm and breathable, as well as having water-repelling capabilities, (sea spray and light rain would not easily take hold in these sweaters).

Though the cable knit style has a deep Irish heritage, the cable knit technique has also been seen in Scandinavian and British knitwear, where texture and warmth are key design elements. Today, the cable knit is celebrated not just for its cosiness, but for its timeless, artisanal appeal that blends heritage with high style.

Why Choose Cable Knits

A cable knit garment will be a great inclusion in your wardrobe. Here’s why:

1. Warm & Cosy
   The raised texture of the cable knit means that it includes extra fibre, which makes for a double dose of insulation. This means that cable knit dresses, jumpers, and cardigans will be a little warmer than a flat knit jumper. But if you’re worried it’ll be too hot to wear, you can find a lot of knit garments that mix segments of cable knit with flat knit as well, meaning that sections of the garment will be cooler than others.
2. Tough wearing
   Cable knit involves tightly interweaving stitches. These stitches tend to be a little more durable than flat knit stitches, and they resist wear better. This means that your cable knit cardigan or jumper will likely last you a long time, so makes for a worthwhile investment.
3. Interesting Texture
   Plain knits can be beautiful, but they often lack visual interest. The three dimensional nature of a cable knit, on the other hand, will really pop out and catch the eye. This means that rather than being a wardrobe basic, a cable knit garment becomes more of a statement piece.
4. Classic Style
   Cable knit women’s jumpers offer a rustic, handcrafted look, which is always in style during the cold seasons. This means that you can wear your cable knit year after year, and you’ll always be on trend.
5. Versatile Styling
   A variety of garments include cable knit patterns, including dresses, cardigans and sweaters. If you want an elegant look, you can opt for a fitted cable knit dress. For a relaxed vibe, consider an oversized cable knit jumper over some leggings. And if you want to layer, then cable knit cardigans make for a solid outer layer.
6. Mixed Fibres
   Whilst cable knits were originally made using animal wool, these days, a range of fibres will be combined in a cable knit garment. You’ll find cable knits in acrylic and cotton, which offer cotton’s natural breathability with the easy care of the acrylic fibres, (they can be thrown in the wash and are unlikely to shrink). You’ll also see some cable knits with metallic threads included in the mix, adding a dazzling touch.
   
   The added bonus of including synthetic fibres in a cable knit item is that it will add more stretch to the garment, making it comfortable to wear.
7. Great for Layering
   Cable knits are nice and chunky, so when worn on their own, they will offer a substantial amount of warmth. At the same time, they are usually soft enough to layer beneath jackets and coats.

Styling Cable Knit Jumpers

Cable knit garments pretty much speak for themselves. You can wear them with minimal styling, and they will make a visual impact. They also happen to be easy to style with a few simple additions. 

Here are some tips to easily styling cable knit dresses, cardigans, and jumpers.

1. Wear Chunky Knits with Slim Bottoms

An oversized cable knit cardigan or jumper will always look good with slim-leg pants, whether they be jeans, leggings, or tailored pants. This is because the sleek leg of the pants contrasts with the thickness of the cable knit jumper or cardigan, ensuring that the overall look is balanced, rather than bulky.

2. Cable Knit Dress with Belt

You’ll look immediately chic if you try this simple trick! To instantly transform the look of a cable knit dress, add a belt. It’s an easy touch that creates shape at the waist, and breaks the look up a little. The belt might be wide or thin—either way, it will change how the dress looks and add an extra something. 

3. Mixing Textures

Playing with textures can really bring dynamism to your outfit. So if you are wearing a thick, textured cable knit with a wooly appearance, pairing it with something smooth will work really well. Think faux leather pants or a skirt, satin bottoms, or even denim. This mix of textures will help to bring your rustic cable knit into a more contemporary and fashionable realm.

4. Layer with Structure

Cable knits have an inherent soft look to them, so work really well with structured under and outer laywers. So, consider wearing a crisp collared shirt beneath your chunky cable knit jumper, or a streamlined trench coat on top.

5. Accessorise Thoughtfully

Remember the cable knit’s rustic origins when you accessorise. You won’t need much, if anything, in terms of jewellery. A statement necklace or earrings will work well.

Scarves, especially silky scarves, will add a contrasting smoothness to your look. Then a structured bag will make you look polished. 

If you want to elongate your silhouette when wearing a cable knit dress, then opt for heeled winter boots.

Cable Knits at Femme Connection

Looking to add some cable knit women’s jumpers to your winter wardrobe? We have a range of stylish cable knits in our Women’s knitwear collection, including cable knit-dresses, knit cardigans and knit jumpers. Get ready for winter and check out our knitwear today!