Crew Neck Sweater: A Fisherman's Knit That Went to the Golf Course

Crew Neck Sweater: A Fisherman's Knit That Went to the Golf Course

A crew neck sweater comes from fishermen's guernseys, and the V&A traces knitted jerseys into sportswear by the 1870s. The Prince of Wales popularized the Fair Isle sweater in his golf attire in 1921, and sweaters first appeared in American Vogue in 1927. This is how to choose a crew neck sweater you will wear for ten winters.

From the boat to the course

The V&A traces sweaters to fishermen's guernseys, or ganseys, and says that by the 1870s knitted jerseys were being worn for sport and widely adopted by athletes. The Prince of Wales popularized the Fair Isle sweater by wearing one for golf in 1921, and sweaters first appeared in American Vogue in 1927. The crew neck is the plainest version of this long history, a sweater with a rounded collar and no fuss.

Crew Neck Sweater styled editorial photo 1

Fiber and weight

Wool, cashmere and cotton each have their place. A merino crew neck is warm and light, and a cashmere one is softer. Cotton is cooler and better for spring. Check the knit by pinching it. A tight, even knit keeps its shape and pills less. A fine gauge looks neat under a jacket and a chunky one looks like a weekend.

Crew Neck Sweater styled editorial photo 2

Fit and neckline

A crew neck should sit snug at the neck and loose through the body. A ribbed collar that lies flat is a good sign. Picture her in a navy crew neck over a white collared shirt, the collar peeking out, walking into a quiet office. Choose a hem that falls just at the hip if you wear it with trousers, and a cropped one with high waists.

Crew Neck Sweater styled editorial photo 3

Wearing it every day

A crew neck sweater works with jeans, skirts and trousers. Layer a shirt underneath for polish. Tie it over your shoulders for an old-school touch. Fold it to store, never hang it, so the shoulders do not stretch.

What I would skip

I would skip scratchy wool next to the skin, loose knits that snag on every bag strap and collars that curl. A crew neck sweater should be the piece that gets better each season.