Island Diary

From flax to fabric, the story of linen is deeply connected to Inis Meáin. One of the oldest textile fabrics in the world, flax was used in textiles in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) as far back as the Neolithic period. Its species name Linum utisatissimum—meaning ‘most useful’—is particularly apt, as flax has been grown in Ireland since the Bronze Age and been cultivated for use for clothing for a thousand years. read more

People all over the world join in the tradition of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th. Yet nowhere celebrates Ireland’s national day quite like we do here on Inis Meáin, with a Cead tournament. read more

There is a very old custom or ritual, which has been practised in the island for centuries. On the eve of the feast of St Brigid, January 31st, all the young girls (under twelve) visited every house in the island with a Brídeog, a doll made of straw and clothed in a bright dress, ribbons and some jewellery. read more

The unique natural beauty and rich Irish culture of the three Aran Islands have long attracted artists, musicians and literary figures. One of the latest visual and literary representations is The Banshees of Inisherin, mostly filmed on our neighbouring island of Inis Mór, pictured here behind Inis Meáin. read more

The traditional Aran pattern lies at the heart of our heritage, yet we are always looking at ways to creatively rework its unique, clever construction. This season, and for the first time, we completely deconstructed this complex style, unfurling it all the way back to the intricate, repeated rhythms of the pattern. read more

Our much-loved Carpenter’s Jacket is the comfortable alternative to that classic workwear staple, the chore coat. Finished with three pockets – two front and one interior – to carry a phone and glasses. Side vents ensure a neat, unbulky finish both standing and sitting. The saddle shoulder lends a squared, tailored jacket structure without compromising on comfort or fit. read more

Our Subtle Stripe Tunic heralds a new look for a new season. With it, we capture the way we experience the colours of our Island landscape and the constant shifts and blends created by changes to the light and weather. With a slightly high mock neck, the Subtle Stripe Tunic features reversed seam details, and uses roll trim and set-in sleeves to enhance the experience of relaxed, bohemian style. read more

Irish Aran Knitting is traditionally quite heavy, usually 2.5 or 3 gauge or 2 to 3 needle per inch. 12 gauge knitting or 12 needles per inch is rare in this part of the world. 7 years ago, we decided to experiment with 12 gauge because we saw it as an important addition to facilitate layering in our collections. We were also experiencing demand for lighter weight knitwear to suit modern living conditions. read more

It began with a single photograph, taken in 1918. We have it on the wall in our studio. A father and his daughter, with five young children alongside them. Everything they are wearing was locally hand-made. All the children are in petticoats, as was Island custom, because the tailor didn’t have time to sew trousers for boys until they reached seven or eight. He always made them his standard jacket though; even young lads got one. That tradition was part of Island life, and, in 1992, became the original inspiration for our iconic Shirt Jacket. read more

For centuries, Inis Meáin was the least accessible of the three Aran Islands. We were once completely dependent on sea travel, and communication with the mainland was sparse and unpredictable. Responding to the ever-changing weather is natural to daily life here in addition to being a significant influence on our design aesthetic. Traditional characteristics of islanders are self-sufficiency and resourcefulness. We are accustomed to living in a sustainable way and have always been deeply connected to our natural surroundings. read more