With new patterns and limited-edition pieces, Aubin has Christmas all knitted up
As illustrated in its new festive collection, the British brand continues to take inspiration from techniques and traditions of the past...
Words: Jonathan Wells
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Christmas is a time for traditions. It’s a time for family recipes, classic carols and heirloom decorations. And, at Aubin, it’s a time for celebrating something else that’s also been passed down the generations: expertise. Since its relaunch, almost three years ago, the British brand has stuck to the nostalgic principles of its past, creating clothing that is both built to last and made to hang timelessly in our wardrobes.
Several heritage fabrics – from wax and corduroy to moleskin – feature in Aubin’s collections. But, this Christmas, it’s a more warming textile that takes centre stage: wool. Whether merino, cashmere or lambswool, the brand’s latest robust releases have been woven with traditional techniques, and many bear fresh takes on established patterns. Below, we’ve chosen some our favourite pieces for festive gifting.
Pick a patterned knit to bring cheer this Christmas
A rich tradition of patterns runs through Britain’s clothing history, including plaids and pinstripes. But, Aubin’s discerning design team always finds the finest motifs and can be counted on to sort the houndstooths from the herringbones. For Christmas, they’ve given their new knits a bold, celebratory feel, using two patterns that take inspiration from Scotland.
First up comes Fair Isle, named for the remote island found halfway between Orkney and Shetland. This pattern adorns an autumnal, rust-coloured crew neck, and can also be seen stitched into a suitably Christmassy cardigan. And, the yarn used to weave these Fair Isle options is, like the pattern itself, sourced from Shetland. Alternatively, Aubin has headed west on Scotland’s mainland to create another cardigan, one created with a large-scale Paisley pattern, a heritage design often seen on silk scarves and pyjamas.
Heritage wools and techniques ensure long-lasting gifts
But, the traditional touches don’t end with patterns. Aubin, which was originally established in 2008 and has always been committed to creating a more sustainable future for men’s fashion, also pays homage to the craft and techniques of historic garment-makers. You’ll find nine different traditional stitches in the brand’s knitwear range, with everything from classic cable to fisherman rib used to create the new collection’s intricately made pieces.
There’s the Brancaster, a heavy-gauge rollneck that takes its cues from the submariner jumpers of the Royal Navy. There’s also the Drayton, a uniquely textured cardigan created using crocheted moss stitch. And, there’s the Abersoch jumper, woven from flecked, tweedy Donegal yarn. But, our picks of these time-honoured pieces cross the border into England: the Earl cardigan, bright red and inspired by the nobleman who gave the garment its name; and the Hobbs, a cricket-style slipover named for the celebrated Surrey batsman.
All-important accessories will bring the warmth this winter
With winter in full, snowy swing, every day demands good, reliable knitwear. Happily, Aubin’s selection of woven pieces extends beyond jumpers and cardigans. Thanks to the label’s long-standing partnerships with traditional Scottish woollen mills, it also offers many gifting-friendly accessories that’ll keep your friends and family members warm during the colder months.
The Dales scarf is perhaps the finest example of this. Made in Scotland by specialists Roberts Mackie (who first fired up its looms in 1845), it’s another Fair Isle creation, which weaves together yarns of yellow, orange and green, and pairs perfectly with the brand’s matching Uppingham gloves. The Pembridge hat, too, would make an excellent present. Produced from lambswool, it may be a more muted offering, but there are nine colour options from which to choose.
For a refined Christmas, go for cashmere and merino wools
Chunky knits and bold colours may be comfortable and cheerful, but Aubin has also released a refined cashmere and merino blend range this season – knits that put a more luxurious spin on the classic Christmas jumper.
We particularly like the long-sleeved Brampton polo in ‘Bordeaux’ – it’s a beautiful, rich red shirt that’ll see you through any smart-casual gatherings this Christmas. Or, for another great gift idea, try the Sunningdale V-neck jumper, available in an equally festive dark green and cut slightly higher than usual for a more modern take on the traditional sweater. It’s a neat move, bringing together classic cashmere and saddle shoulder sleeves with a contemporary silhouette – and, ultimately, it’s one that blends old techniques with current styles marvellously, in true Aubin fashion.
Want more stylish gift options? Here are 12 of the best men’s watches to wrap up this Christmas…
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