Chunky cable-knit sweaters, itchy scarves, and pom-pom adorned hats are all things that come to mind when we think of vintage knitting. Winter (and autumn) is the time of year when the knitting needles reappear out of nowhere and suddenly the entire family has the same pair of heavy wool socks from the household knit addict. Cold weather has always been a time of creating new things from a good ball of yarn, but the revival of blissfully warm sweaters and cozy shawls has commenced!
Knitting has a sort of second life these days. What was once the craft of choice for grandmothers and Amish women alike has become a booming industry for whomever is brave enough to pick up a pair of needles. It has been around for generations, and although there was a lull in the craft’s popularity, it has only grown into an empire in the last ten years, roughly.
Especially in the preparation for the two major World Wars, knitting became a way for women to engage in the efforts to support troops overseas. From there, the interest and addiction to knit stayed rather constant. Sometimes, there were declines in the overall numbers of knitters, but in the grand scheme of things, the craft has stayed alive. In the most recent years, (approx. 2009-), knitting has gained serious praise and popularity across the nation once again. Although not fueled by necessity or war efforts, knitting became a stylish method of hobby uptake.
For those who have stigmatized knitting into the ‘chunky, itchy sweaters that great-grandmother used to force on the kids in December’, this classic craft has many different displays of elegance, for both beginners and experts alike. Look at the wares of Forever 21, Macy’s, J.C.Penney’s and other name brand carriers for the rapid marketing of all things knit and nuzzle-worthy. Pair a sweater or capelet with your favorite skirt, long wool socks, or toasty mittens. For the gentlemen, warm socks and felt hats match marvelously for a timeless, shamelessly snug wintry-welcoming outing. Bundle up, darlings!
Retro Curious Rebellious: The Revival 