For so long now, we’ve been eager to celebrate the incredible, Máire Hughes, co-founder of Aran Woollen Mills. Prior to the business’ conception in 1965, Máire was devoted to finding a way to celebrate, nurture and sustain the West of Ireland’s unique woollen craftsmanship, while simultaneously creating employment for talented locals. At that time Máire was a woman with grit, determination and unwavering dedication. The business began as all great family businesses do. Every family member playing their part developing products, making samples and delivering and collecting stock from local outworkers, all with the fervent hope that Aran Woollen Mills would bloom, thrive and grow. Máire’s son, Vincent, is our current Managing Director and still carries Máire’s torch proudly, crafting woollen pieces that honour the land, bring much needed jobs to this part of the world and showing Ireland and beyond what well-crafted wool can bring to fashion, sustainable shopping and the world of business.
Over 35 years later, Máire’s hard work and eye for woollen beauty has remained here within the company and we couldn’t be more proud to honour her with the masterfully crafted Máire Cardigan. It was important for us to craft a piece that balanced practicality, warmth, beauty and grace. With a contemporary, large collar, and timeless football buttons, this simple piece is the perfect addition to your all-year-round wardrobe. Cosy up by the fire and stay cosy in winter and continue to wear this piece in summer on a cool evening walk.
With the extra length, this cardigan brings a classy edge, indicative of the beautiful, sophisticated woman that Máire was. You’ll notice we’ve gone for some chunky cable stitching on this piece. Traditionally, this stitching is a symbol of good luck and safety. We know that Máire wished good luck for her business, safety for her staff and community and good fortune for everyone that engaged interacted and bought from Aran Woollen Mills. With large, deep pockets, this cardigan brings practicality to the front and champions a busy woman that needs a versatile piece for her everyday wear.
To say we’re inspired by Máire is a huge understatement. To build a business aliongside her husband, play an active role in crafting the business at a time when women didn’t always partake in that world, and have actively contributed to the protection and regeneration of Aran Wool products is nothing short of exceptional. Máire was a woman ahead of her time. She saw what was possible for this rural place in Ireland. She saw the magic in woollen craftsmanship. She saw the skill and talent in local people and she championed it.
We can only hope that every piece Aran Woollen Mills crafts, holds the same power Máire did. Her fervent passion runs through every facet of our work and we’re incredibly excited to share this very
special piece with you. As you’ll see from this wonderful photograph of Máire and her husband Padraig, she worked with a smile on her face and with great pride in every wheel and turn of Aran Woollen Mills. Máire is the perfect example of a working woman who believed in something bigger, chased it with all her heart and brought her community along with her.
With the Máire cardiagn, we’re Celebrating women, we’re celebrating Ireland, we’re celebrating Máire.
You can shop the Máire here!
