As the weather gets colder and the Christmas countdown goes from months to weeks,  I  find myself drawn to sweaters and boots that are functional rather than show-stopping.  This isn’t a bad thing, I know every wardrobe needs garments that make you want to snuggle up with a book and stoke the fire.  However, we need to be aware of the fit, cut, and look of these cozy pieces. There is no need to look frumpy and unfashionable when you want to feel comfortable.

The best way to be both fashionable and comfortable this winter is with Fair Isle prints. Traditional Fair Isle knit is known for having a limited color palette of yarn woven to create patterns, but today the terms is used loosely to describe a winter-y pattern on any type of fabric.   It is hot, hot, hot this winter as stores are stocked full of not only sweaters, but all pieces of clothing featuring this eye-catching trend; I found a number of pieces for this article from Blonde, and there was so much more I wanted to try on!

Going home for the holidays? A Fair Isle knit sweater is the perfect way to travel, providing warmth and comfort while being more interesting than a plain sweater. Pair a pullover with leggings and moccasins, and you’ll feel at home on a plane, in a car, or at the kitchen table wrapping presents.

To keep this look casual, make sure to add simple and season-appropriate accessories.  I love pairing mine with rugged boots with extras such as buckles or shearling detailing.  Adding faux fur to your Fair Isle print keeps the look warm and adds extra texture.  With a simple print of black and white, a pair of bright red jeans is both festive and right on trend; I found these at Extension 207, and they totally fit the bill.

(Photo: Rhys Albrecht - rhysalbrecht.com)

For more ideas on how to wear Fair Isle check out my blog (http://ilovedenham.com)