As Aran Woollen Mills celebrates 60 years in business, we’ve taken time to reflect on the journey that’s taken us from our small beginnings to becoming one of Ireland’s most recognised names in knitwear. We recently sat down with Creative Director Vincent Hughes to talk about how innovation, adaptability, and staying rooted in our values have sustained the brand across generations.
His insight reminded us that our success has come from the careful balance of embracing change while preserving tradition. Here's a look at the key milestones that shaped Aran Woollen Mills into what it is today.
A Bold Beginning: The Vision of Máire Hughes
Back in 1965, Ireland was a very different place. Social norms often kept married women at home, despite their talents and skills. But Máire Hughes, our founder, saw an opportunity. Drawing on the rich tradition of Aran knitting passed down through generations of Irish women, she created a business that allowed women to work from home while supporting their families.
Máire’s first boutique, Carraig Donn, laid the foundation for what would later become Aran Woollen Mills. Her mission was clear: empower local women, honour Irish craftsmanship, and build something lasting. That same innovative spirit continues to shape everything we do today.
A Leap Forward: Introducing Modern Technology
Years later, Máire’s sons joined the business. Determined to push the brand forward, Patrick and Vincent Hughes brought modern knitwear technology back to Westport. This marked a turning point for Aran Woollen Mills.
By incorporating machinery into the production process, we could scale up manufacturing while maintaining quality. It was a move that helped future-proof the business and marked the beginning of a new era for Irish knitwear production. Máire’s vision had taken its next big step.
Going Global: Embracing the Digital Age
As the world moved online, so did we. Taking Aran Woollen Mills into the digital space was no small task. It required careful planning, collaboration with digital experts, and a clear goal - to grow without losing the heart of the brand.
Our digital presence allows us to share authentic Irish craftsmanship with a global audience, while still staying true to the values we were founded on.
Adapting Through Challenge: Finding Strength in Change
During the COVID-19 pandemic, like many businesses, we paused to reflect. How could we continue to protect the heritage of Aran knitwear in a time of global uncertainty?
The answer was to create something new: a dedicated Aran Woollen Mills collection that spoke directly to our story, our roots, and the land that inspires us. This line celebrates not just the craft, but the Irish language, landscape, and folklore stitched into every piece.
The Legacy Lives On
The last 60 years have been defined by passion, resilience, and innovation. From Máire’s first designs to the work of our talented team today, Aran Woollen Mills has always been about more than clothing. It’s about community, culture, and craft.
We are proud to carry this legacy forward, and we know the future will bring new challenges and opportunities. Just as we did in 1965, we’ll meet them with heart, heritage, and a belief in what Aran knitwear represents.
Explore our latest collection [here] and be part of the next chapter in the Aran story.
