All About Argyle
Anything but preppy; what it really stands for, memories of my grandfather and a discerning edit.
Argyle traces its roots to the 17th-century tartan of Clan Campbell of Argyll in western Scotland which is the same lineage that gave rise to the distinctive kilts and Highlander socks. According to The Scottish Historical Review, after Mary, Queen of Scots quelled the 1565 Chaseabout Raid that opposed her marriage to Lord Darnley, only one rebel remained at large: Archibald Campbell, the fifth Earl of Argyll. Retreating to his castle at Dunoon, he stood defiant, beyond the Queen’s reach. From this ancestry comes the essence of argyle; a quiet resistance, a streak of independence against the crown.
The pattern reemerged centuries later, after World War I, when Pringle of Scotland popularized it by linking it to the Duke of Windsor (formerly King Edward VIII), whose flair for style helped make argyle synonymous with modern sophistication. It became a staple of golf attire, especially in the long socks paired with plus-fours trousers. Yet, argyle never belonged solely to the realm of elite leisure.
With its diagonal lines and overlapping diamonds, the pattern embodies contradiction: it appears on the socks of Wall Street financiers and the sweaters of unimpressed centenarians alike. It is both studious and subversive, a hint of rebellion beneath a tailored suit. Argyle endures as fashion’s perfect paradox as the original high-low pattern.
My earliest of memory of argyle comes from my grandfather.
He was a true Aquarian, an avid reader with a strong sense of discontent about the world and its ways. During the winter in Norther India, he’d get dressed every morning in a pair of corduroy or wool trousers, a crisp shirt paired with a v-neck sweater and either a tweed jacket or heavy wool cardigan. There were two constants; argyle socks and his tobacco pipe. Though he was retired, he would dress up to spend his day reading and sitting in the sunshine eating freshly peeled oranges. I’d often join him and he would test my arithmetic skills. I still remember the scent of his 4711 original eau de cologne mixed with tobacco.
So, I have a spot for argyle, tweed, and a subtle touch of grandfather chic. If you’re new here, any edits that I share are discerning and fabric conscious. I only share natural fibers and skip synthetics. I believe in quality over quantity and saving for one great piece instead of spending a little bit on several average pieces. If you want to get more regular content on the brands and pieces I love, you can follow me on Instagram.
As for the argyle edit, let’s get into it.
The colors of this 100% lambswool Argyle cardigan are incredibly flattering. The brown patches at the shoulders frame the face beautifully. &Daughter is one of my favorite brands and their knits are made in Scotland where the pure water makes the yarn incredibly soft. I think it would look lovely paired with this green jade or amethyst necklace.
This sweater leans more preppy, but is a relatively good price for 100% cashmere. Remember though, not all yarn is the same. I’d pair it with a great pair of dark wash jeans and chocolate brown toned boots like this.
My husband bought this last month and the cotton-wool blend makes it soft and light which means you could still wear it in milder winter climes. It looks absolutely brilliant paired with this 100% wool herringbone jacket and a pair of chinos.
If you’re not sold on argyle and just want to dip your toe in, these socks would look fantastic paired with a pair of burgundy or brown loafers.
Let’s not forget the little ones - this merino wool jumper would be so smart on little boys. This fabric is an all-season wonder which maximizes use and cost per wear.
This is the ultimate grandfather chic pick of the lot. The muted brown and grey paired with navy and streaks of pale yellow are subtle yet classic. I’d wear this with my favorite jeans and over a crisp striped white shirt finished with loafers and a long strand of pearls ( I am launching the most beautiful ones very soon!).
Alternatively, this is brighter version of the same knit. The pop of red is quite striking. I do think this would pair well with a pair of white jeans.
Another way to just add a touch of argyle to your outfit is this sumptuous 100% cashmere foulard. Like the other argyle pieces from this brand, this piece is also crafted from super soft 100% Scottish-spun yarn and made in the Scottish Borders.
Yes, I have a lot of picks from this brand, but their color combinations are flawless and this is true argyle from Scotland. The combination of hunter green and soft pink on this knit is eye-catching for winter. Wear with this highly unusual green jasper necklace.
If you want argyle that is a bit softer on your wallet, this cardigan is made of merino wool and cotton which makes it lightweight enough for nearly all year use. The burgundy and sky blue also makes for a cheerful pairing especially in the dead of winter.
I just loved the color pairings of these socks and will be ordering some pieces for myself for a little peep of argyle under my jeans and trousers.
I’d love to know your thoughts on argyle, or any treasured memories you have of your grandfather.
