Origins of Cowichan Cardigan Sweaters
A Cowichan sweater or a cardigan is a garment that originated in the North American region of Cowichan, the coast of British Columbia. Produced by the indigenous people of that area, these sweaters are considered a significant cultural and folklore heritage of Canada. Since they are designed in a cardigan format with an open front and often in a shawl collar style, people like to call them Cowichan cardigans.
Cowichan Inspired and True Cowichan cardigan
Original Cowichan sweaters are produced by the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest tribes who own the rights to the genuine version and production style of the sweaters. Nowadays, you can either only purchase genuine sweaters hand-knitted by the native people of Cowichan or replica cardigans which are “Cowichan-inspired” versions of the sweater.
Cowichan Patterns and their popularity
Known for their geometric patterns and motifs as well as the heavy natural wool, original handmade sweaters are a work of art and they carry the “Genuine Cowichan” labels on them. Replica cardigans are usually made with various blends of fabric and yarn, much lighter weight, and in a variety of colors and patterns. They are equally attractive and stylish and have become immensely popular amongst celebrities, fashion models, and various luxury brands and shops in recent years.
Their craftsmanship, yarns, and of course, patterns are what makes them memorable. Most of us remember the movie Big Lebowski where a Cowichan-inspired cardigan came to prominence in Hollywood and remained associated with that movie to this day. That famous cardigan was made by an American-based company “The Pendleton” which has been making Cowichan-inspired knitwear for decades now. Some examples are featured in the tables below.
Cowichan Cardigan Sweaters for Men
In the table below, we’ve listed some Cowichan style-inspired cardigans sold on Amazon by various brands. Click on the thumbnail images to get a larger photo and sizing info.
| Style | Example | Fabric/Yarn |
|---|---|---|
  |
Pendleton Men’s Original Westerley The Zip Up Sweater Cardigan | 100% Wool |
  |
PJ PAUL JONES Men’s Casual Curling Sweater Cardigans Button Down Knitted Sweater | 98% Acrylic, 2% Polyester |
  |
Big Lebowski Style The Dude Cowichan Sweater Cardigan by OEM | 30% Wool, 70% Polyester |
  |
Starsky and Hutch Paul Michael Glaser Adult Costume Cardigan Sweater | 85% Acrylic, 15% Wool |
Check out this fabulous looking Cowichan inspired, women’s Westerley cardigan by Pendleton. Made from a 100% lamb’s work, this zip-up front cardigan is truly a work of art. Click on the image for more info on sizing.
The Cowichan Knitter story
Some Final Words
These cardigans usually come with the zip-up front but you can buy them with button-up fronts as well. They make great winter cardigans and are becoming more and more popular amongst skiers and snowboarders in recent years. They make wonderful, long-lasting gifts, especially during the winter months. Lastly, by buying an authentic Cowichan cardigan you help the knitters carry on the tradition and support their craft.
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