Historical knitwear inspiration - the Norwegian jumper

Continuing this month's chunky knitwear theme, here's some historical inspiration. We've already seen this Antarctic explorer, George Rayner's, 1920s Fair Isle socks (here). We see him here at sea, wearing his seaboots and a wonderful Norwegian jumper. There's another shot of him at the bottom of this post.

Below are some ways you can recreate this rugged Nordic sweater look. I found a vintage one recently, soft, thick and warm. I've worn it on the coldest days here in London, layered with tweed or wind-proof cotton. This combination breathes well, keeping me more comfortable (and hopefully stylish) than shapeless fleeces and sweaty waterproofs. 

Modern outdoor clothes have their place on the mountain top or Arctic tundra. I certainly wouldn't wear a thick jumper and tweeds on a British winter mountain (although climbers did so before the 1950s). But if you're not facing such extremes, comfort and style should come first. Try a thick jumper and tweeds instead.

Photo Museum Victoria

And you can recreate the look today from these suppliers (or, for vintage, keep an eye on eBay) -

Peregrine

Tails and the Unexpected

North Sea Clothing

Devold

Vintage Norwegian sweater - Grey Fox collection. Heavy and beautifully warm.

And here he is again, photographed on the Antarctic ice on Christmas Eve 1934, wearing what looks like the same trusty jumper.