In Praise of the Dad Jumper
"There’s a synchronicity with my desire to write my first blog post for Cape Cove in praise of the chunky knit jumper, and reading the last post on the Cape Cove journal that was posted this month, a year ago, celebrating the Fisherman’s jumper. https://www.cape-cove.com/blogs/journal/not-just-a-fishermans-friend Smiling at the similar language I’ve been drawn to, talking of nostalgia, the jumper’s timeless nature, how it's a comfort that you reach for as Autumn arrives. Truths that will continue for years to come.
I’ve inherited a collection of heavy, Aran jumpers from my Dad which carry a heap of sentimental value and I know many women with t-shirts, shirts, jumpers passed down (or pinched out of wardrobes!) from much-loved Dads and Grandads.
Originating from the windswept shores of the Aran Islands off the coast of Ireland, the Aran jumper emerged as a practical necessity for fishermen battling the harsh elements of the Atlantic Ocean. Keeping out the chill of the winds in an Atlantic storm, and protecting from the salt water spray. Hand-knitted using locally sourced wool, each jumper was a labour of love, with each stitch imbued with meaning and symbolism. Every family having their unique, recognisable pattern passed down from generation to generation. With its intricate patterns and cosy warmth, this iconic jumper holds a storied past that weaves together tradition, craftsmanship, and timeless style.
Since my father passed away, I’ve a heightened love and appreciation for oversized knitted jumpers. There’s an undeniable comfort that comes from pulling on a beautifully knit, soft woollen jumper. I feel all chunky knit, oversized jumpers carry a certain nostalgia and maybe even bringing back memories from your childhood, as you slip on this cosy layer. As you pull the knit over you, it feels like a hug. A layer of warmth and security. A nostalgic embrace of enduring style and timeless elegance.
For me, the appeal of the fisherman’s jumper lies in its ability to evoke cherished memories of adventures and carefree moments from family holidays in the West of Ireland. Childhood memories of falling asleep, cuddled into my Dad, with the softness of an Aran jumper, the added comfort of the slow rise and fall of a plump stomach, while sat beside a flickering fire. As responsibilities grow and lives become busier, slipping into the soft embrace of a knitted jumper offers a moment of respite from busy, everyday life. It's a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and savour the simple pleasures that bring joy and contentment.
Crafted from luxurious merino wool, the Dawn Fisherman’s Jumper from Cape Cove is a statement of sophistication and heritage. With its classic cable-knit design and relaxed silhouette, it effortlessly blends functionality with fashion, offering versatility for both casual outings and cozy nights in. You could layer it over a crisp white shirt for a classic look or paired with jeans for a relaxed weekend vibe.
It's a wardrobe essential which will effortlessly transitions from day to night with ease, and will be a reliable, favourite throughout seasons. Keeping you toasty, layered under lined parkas or padded coats in winter, or thrown over a tee and paired with shorts as the summer day’s come to the end and transition to a cooler night.
One of the core values of Cape Cove is to create timeless clothing, to encourage a more sustainable approach to fashion. I’m looking forward to year’s of pulling on this jumper, being reminded of memories it carries. Of coastal walks, beach days, road trips, weekends with friends, cosy nights by the fire...
As the seasons change and trends come and go, the fisherman’s jumper will remain a steadfast companion – a timeless symbol of grace, resilience, and enduring beauty. So, why not indulge in the nostalgia of days gone by and wrap yourself in the warmth of tradition with the Dawn Fisherman’s Jumper from Cape Cove? After all, some things never go out of style.”
The photos attached were taken by a photographer friend @rachltaylor.
Wonderful words by @thewanderingselkie