Meet the young, cool creative reimagining traditional Irish knitwear

Emerging knitwear designer Pearl Reddington is one of the cool creatives redefining traditional Irish crafts.

I come from a family of artists, makers and entrepreneurs. While knitting is traditionally seen as a textile craft, my design philosophy comes very much from a fashion perspective.

That said, I’ve always been more interested in the fine art side of fashion, so I was never particularly drawn to working for a big fashion house. Being an individual artist making limited edition and one-off bespoke pieces gives me the freedom to create what I want and to break down the stereotypes of knit.

Dromahair wrap scarf in charcoal and pebble, €120 at pearlreddington.com

I started my brand to fulfil a niche in contemporary knitwear here in Ireland. I want to bridge the gap between traditional knitwear and high fashion.

This desire was the starting point for the Nü Aran, a traditional Aran jumper modernised with a clashing neon cuff. The Nü Aran jumper is a tribute to the historic skill and hard work of the Irish, and our will to keep working toward a better future.

I want this alarming colour to serve as a warning to nostalgics — keep only the good parts of tradition, and progress with the rest!

Nü Aran jumper in charcoal, €280

I admire any brands doing something interesting with knitwear. Overseas, I love Dusen Dusen, Annie Lee Larson, Cold Picnic, Slowdown Studio, Lorien Stern and Salt + Still.

Irish designers I admire include Inis Meáin Knitwear and Fisherman Out of Ireland. I really look up to those brands that put a focus on beautiful materials and sophisticated traditional techniques without being twee or touristy.

Achill pom hat in rust and denim, €55

I want everyone to respond to my knitwear; all my designs are unisex, and businesswomen, art ravers and babies have all been spotted wearing my designs.

Photographs courtesy of Pearl Reddington.