SAILOR SWEATER

The marine sweater is a local tradition.

Utility, it is originally knitted by the companions of Breton sailors. From the XVIII century onwards, manufacturing techniques allowed for a tighter, almost waterproof knit It aims to withstand wind, rain and storms. For the sailors of Cancale, Granville, and Saint-Malo, it quickly established itself as an armor.

From Brittany, the sea sweater gradually spreads to all of France and then to the whole world. Its usefulness and solidity make it a timeless and portable garment by all. The choice of wool is obvious, providing warmth and comfort. Two types are used: virgin wool, historical and rough, and merino wool, whose long, thin fibers create softness. These sweaters are knitted close to the body.

A button-down leg is on each sweater, making wearing easier. She’s not from Brittany, she’s from Scotland. Some knits are plain, others striped, the latter making it easier to save a man from the sea. This distinction also marks the hierarchy. Where sailors wear striped sweaters, officers prefer uni.

The navy sweater is one of those clothes that are both cult and solid.

GAINSBOURG. Serge, BIRKIN, Jane. Normandy, France. 1971. 

COLOMB, Denise, phot. Young sailor. Finistère, France. 1950.

TABARLY, Eric. aboard the Pen Duick VI. 1976. 

  • JAMES BALDWIN
    « clear, lucid, and familiar, yet punctuated and powerful »
  • THE SHOULDER
    « tailors also see it as the place of their uniqueness»
  • KITANO, THREE MOVEMENTS
    « His countenance and clothes then become the way to read him.»
  • THE PICK STITCH
    « historically done by hand, with a striking visual detail in lighter, brighter fabrics »
0
    Your Cart close
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop
    *deliveries may be delayed slightly during the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games
    This is default text for notification bar