Inis Meáin, a New Gaelic Tradition

• Posted on 7 July 2021
• By Bruce Liles
• 0

Of all the lines with which we have the privilege to represent, none evokes a sense of place as much as the knitwear maker Inis Meáin. The wild and rustic landscape of the Aran Island that is the home to this brand is reflected in the character of each stitch. Beginning with a dream of the founders, Tarlach de Blácam and his wife Áine Ní Chonghaile, the company was created in 1967 to build a sustainable business and create an opportunity for the locals on the island that was so loved by this couple. Designs are taken from the Celtic ruins that dot the island, and colours come from flora and fauna of the natural land and sea scapes. Limited runs of each style are produced, building on a timeless identity to compose a modern aesthetic. The heavier yarns that protected the fishermen of yore have been supplanted by a more modern take on luxury including alpaca, cashmere, silk, linen and fine Geelong wool. Comforting to both body and soul are the contemporary renderings of this unique heritage brand.