When the temperatures drop to “I’m canceling all my plans” lows, cocooning yourself in swathes of wool and cashmere is the only way to make it through the day. This winter’s sweater trends had an unexpected twist: Mixed in with everyday cardigans and luxuriously soft knits was the Fair Isle sweater. Originating from the Scottish island of Shetland, this distinctive knitting pattern has hopped across the pond onto runways, to show-goers’ ensembles, and of course, into our wardrobes.
Though Fair Isle sweaters are distinctive, there is also a wide variety—not just in the colors they come in, but in their shapes. You’ll find everything from oversized crews and cropped V-necks to cardigans that could come from a still of When Harry Met Sally. Not only can you find your preferred version of a Fair Isle knit, but you can also style it in a myriad of ways. Whether your winter plans involve a trip to Aspen or you plan to spend the next two months hiding indoors, we uncovered five ways to style your new Fair Isle sweater.
Elevated Basics
For the fashion minimalist, the loud pattern of a Fair Isle sweater might feel overwhelming. If adding color to that ensemble feels like a step too far, a black-and-white moment is more than appropriate. Let the sweater carry your outfit, and keep accessories simple with your go-to pair of jeans, comfortable loafers, and monochromatic detailing.
Cos Double-Faced Wool Long Coat
Massimo Dutti Wool Blend Jacquard Knit Sweater
Levi’s Low Pro Lightweight Jeans
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DeMellier The Stockholm Bag
Cropped Crimsons
For the in-the-know dresser, adding a modern twist to Fair Isle’s heritage status can help the look feel current. Burgundy rivals chocolate brown as winter’s must-have shade, so adding hints of this tone—whether via accessories or the sweater’s fibers—brings this trend to the present. Swapping a classic shape for a cropped knit is another way to modernize the Fair Isle sweater.
Zara Cropped Jacquard Knit Cardigan
Déhanche Colette Suede Belt
Stuart Weitzman Val Slingback 85 Sandal
Ferragamo Small Hug Leather Shoulder Bag
Citizens of Humanity Pasha Trouser
Texture Time
If wintertime zaps you of your outfit creativity, playing with textures is an easy recipe for looking put-together. Pairing a Fair Isle sweater with a crystal-embellished sheer skirt or even cozy corduroy pants adds interest to the outfit. To keep everything cohesive, opt for neutrals.
Barbour Aoife Belted Water Resistant Trench Coat
Nili Lotan Chrissy Fair Isle Jacquard Sweater
J.Crew Gwyneth Layered Slip Skirt
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Mango Infinity Slingback Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pump
Layers Upon Layers
Ralph Lauren Fall 2025
When temperatures dip below freezing, keeping warm with layer upon layer is paramount. Tucking wool pants into riding boots, adding a shirt with a fun collar beneath your Fair Isle knit, and topping the entire look off with a fantastic coat is an easy recipe to keep out the frigid winds without sacrificing style.
Source Unknown Notched Lapel Faux-Fur Coat
Vince Fair Isle Cashmere Sweater
Ralph Lauren Alexandrea Crepe-Back-Satin Blouse
Veronica Beard Marbeau Wool Blend Pants
Coach Park Knee High Boot
Flared Isle
Whether you consider yourself a maximalist or prefer a capsule wardrobe, adding color and flair to your winter outfits helps you stand out from a sea of black wool coats. You can swap your gray knits for a brightly colored Fair Isle option, or find a flared cardigan à la Guest in Residence’s Sculpted Cardigan. The trick is to keep the rest of the outfit low-key with denim and simple accessories.
Guest in Residence Fair Isle Sculpted Cardigan
Madewell The Emmy Wide-Leg Jean
Toteme Mini T-lock Naplack Clutch Red
L’Agence Milou Domed Embossed Belt
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