Knitted textiles in ethnic costumes around the world

As an ancient and exquisite handicraft, knitted textiles have always played an important role in national costumes around the world. It is not only a clothing material, but also a symbol of culture, tradition and national identity. Whether it’s the traditional Gloux of Scotland, the kimono of Japan, or the Alpaca cardigan of Peru, knitwear carries a rich historical and cultural connotation.In many cultures, knitwear is often associated with specific festivals, celebrations or ceremonies, and has become an important part of traditional clothing. They not only provide warmth and comfort for people, but also a status symbol, representing the identity and belonging of a specific group.

Traditional Scottish knitwear: such as Gloux and Isle of Arran sweaters

Traditional Scottish knitwear has a rich historical and cultural connotation, the most famous of which is the Gloux and the Isle of Arran sweater.Gansey is a sweater commonly worn by fishermen on the northeast coast of Scotland and is known for its strong durability and fine weave. The sweaters are usually woven from blue or black wool, using lines and patterns that identify the fishing boat or family behind the sweater. Not only do they provide warmth, but they also have waterproof properties, making them suitable for wearing in cold Marine environments. The knitting technique of the Glox sweater has been passed down through generations, and each piece is a masterpiece of ingenuity, representing the fishermen’s love of sea life and the value of tradition.

Alan island Sweater (Aran Sweater) originated in Ireland, but also had a similar tradition in Scotland. Known for its intricate weave patterns and thick wool, the sweater is a must-have for farmers to keep warm during the harsh winter months. Each weave pattern has its own unique meaning, such as the fishnet pattern symbolizing harvest and abundance, while the tangled vines represent family connection and unity.The traditional way of making the Isle of Aran sweater has lasted for hundreds of years and is still loved and respected by people today. They are not only fashionable clothing, but also a cultural symbol, carrying on the wisdom and courage of the Irish and Scottish people.

Traditional knitwear in Northern Europe: fancy sweaters from Norway and hand-knitted goods from Estonia

The Nordic region is famous for its cold climate and rich knitting tradition, and the traditional knitwear of Norway and Estonia shows the unique charm of Nordic culture.

Norwegian Sweaters are one of the most famous examples of Norwegian sweaters. These sweaters are known for their intricate geometric patterns and bright colors, and are often the result of hand-knitting at home.One of the most famous is “moss rose” (Marius) pattern, this pattern is composed of red, white and blue wait for color, a symbol of the Norwegian flag and national characteristics. Norwegian fancy sweaters are not only popular at home, but also highly sought after internationally, becoming one of the important symbols of Norwegian culture.

Estonian hand-woven goods show the unique weaving tradition of the Baltic region. In this small country, hand weaving is an ancient and important craft, seen as part of the cultural heritage and way of life. Estonian woven goods are often made from natural fibers, such as wool and linen, in a variety of creative patterns and colors. From traditional sweaters to rugs and scarves, Estonian woven goods show the richness of the national culture, attracting people from all over the world to admire and buy.

Japanese kimono and knitwear: for example, the modern kimono designed by Tadao Ando

In Japan, the kimono is one of the important costumes representing tradition and culture. Although the kimono has always retained its ancient design and manufacturing techniques, with the development of modernization, designers began to combine the traditional kimono with modern fashion, and Tadao Ando is one of them.With his unique perspective and creativity, he reinterprets the traditional kimono and incorporates knitting technology into it.

The modern kimono designed by Tadao Ando shows respect for tradition and the pursuit of innovation. By using knitting techniques, he adds flexibility and comfort to the kimono, making it more suitable for modern lifestyles. Compared to traditional kimonos, Ando’s designs focus more on comfort and practicality, while retaining the elegance and beauty of the kimono.

These modern kimono designs often use light and soft fabrics, combined with knitting features, to create simple and elegant lines.Tadao Ando’s work has gained popularity not only in Japan but also on the international stage, opening new possibilities for bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

Traditional Chinese knitwear: such as the Mongolian pullover and the Zhuang embroidered vest

As a multi-ethnic country, China has a rich variety of traditional knitwear. The Mongolian pullover and the Zhuang embroidered vest are two representative examples.

The Mongolian pullover is an important part of its traditional clothing, which is often famous for its exquisite knitting skills and unique pattern design.Jumpers are mostly made of wool or camel hair, which is warm and durable and suitable for the cold climate of grassland areas. Its unique patterns often reflect the Mongolian lifestyle, cultural beliefs and historical inheritance, and are an important symbol of ethnic identity and cultural inheritance.

On the other hand, the embroidered vests of the Zhuang nationality show the exquisite embroidery skills and rich cultural connotation of the ethnic minorities in southern China. Embroidered vests are usually handmade by women, using colorful threads and decorated with delicate embroidery patterns on the clothing. These patterns often symbolize auspiciousness and happiness, and also reflect the Zhuang people’s yearning and prayer for nature, life and a better future.

Mongolian pullovers and Zhuang embroidered vests are not only costumes, but also important carriers of traditional Chinese culture, carrying national emotions and historical memory, and adding unique charm to China’s multi-culture.