

Everything You Need to
Know About Aran Sweaters
At The Irish Store we love all things Aran! Here's your definitive guide
to Ireland's most iconic knitwear.
Everything You
Need to Know About
Aran Sweaters
At The Irish Store we love all things Aran!
Here's your definitive guide to Ireland's
most iconic knitwear.
An Aran sweater is a traditional Irish knit named after the Aran Islands. Known for its rich cable and textured patterns, it was originally designed to keep fishermen warm. Today, it stands as a global symbol of Irish heritage, with authentic styles beautifully represented in The Irish Store's Aran Sweaters collection.
They originate from the Aran Islands off Ireland's west coast. Local women hand-knitted them for fishermen and their families – a heritage proudly reflected in the collections at The Irish Store.
Each stitch carries meaning and The Irish Store has a sweater for every beloved stitch!
- Cable — safety and good luck — Shop The Ardara Cable Donegal Sweater
- Diamond — prosperity – Shop the Men's Heritage Aran Shawl Collar Button Cardigan
- Honeycomb — good fortune – Shop the Crew Neck Irish Wool Classic Sweater
- Trellis — protection – Shop the Men's Trellis Aran Sweater
Traditionally made from undyed "báinín" wool, known for warmth and water resistance. At the Irish Store, most of our Aran sweaters are crafted with luxuriously soft Merino wool.
Traditional báinín can feel coarse, while modern Merino versions are soft and much easier to wear. The Irish Store customers say it best; "Fine quality, perfect fit, warm, not at all itchy, beautiful design" Trustpilot Review
Rule number one; Step away from the washing machine! Hand wash. Use gentle detergent. Do not wring. Dry flat. Store folded. Discover all you need to know in our blog - How to Care for Your Aran Sweater: Our Top Tips
The classic Aran sweater has evolved into a full family of styles. At The Irish Store you'll find:
- Traditional Crew Neck Aran Sweater — the original silhouette, classic and versatile
- Aran Cardigans — buttoned versions with full patterning, perfect over lighter tops
- Hooded Aran Zipper — combines traditional stitching with a casual contemporary feel
- Kid's Aran Sweaters & Cardigans — the same heritage stitches in smaller sizes
Shop The Irish Store's full Aran Sweaters right here
