Little Miss Cozy’s Cowichan Sweater

Cowichan Sweater

A redhead and a brunette walk into a bar….

No this isn’t the first line of a super funny joke, it’s the story behind this Outfit of the Day.

While my sister was in town for the holidays we set out on an epic shopping adventure which landed us at California Pizza Kitchen’s bar. As we sipped our cocktails we couldn’t help but notice a girl sitting across from us in the coziest, chicest sweater we had ever seen.  After a quick Rock Paper Scissors we determined my sister would ask her where she got it.

Little Miss Cozy Sweater said it was a Cow-wi-gen sweater and that she got it on E-bay.

If you don’t already know this, my sister and I love a good scavenger hunt.  We are OBSESSED with tracking down and finding impossible things, so once Little Miss Cozy Sweater gave us that tiny bit of information it was like signaling the start of a race.

We put on our detective hat’s and went to work on our phones.  After about 10 minutes we learned that Cow-wi-gen is actually Cowichan and it’s a form of knitting NOT a clothing brand.

Cowichan sweaters (also called Siwash Sweaters, Indian Sweaters, Curling Sweaters or sometimes Mary Maxim Sweaters) originated in the 1800’s with the native tribes on Vancouver Island, British Columbia and have become iconic to B.C. ever since.

Cowichan sweaters are knit from natural, hand spun, undyed sheep’s wool. The yarn is so strong the sweater will hold it’s shape for decades and the high lanolin content of the wool makes a water repellant, stain resistant sweater that keeps its wearer warm and dry, absorbs body moisture, and ventilates body heat.

After two more cocktails, I had located this Rockabilly inspired Cowichan beauty on E-bay and hit “Buy Now”.  My sister snagged one with a traditional Thunderbird on the back.

This gorgeous gal is even more cozy than Little Miss Cozy Sweater made it look.  WARMER than my puffer coat and wonderously comfortable it’s like a big hug from an old friend.

Stylist’s Tip: These sweaters are meant to be over-sized and are usually unisex so they are VERY roomy.  I am wearing a medium.  So keep in mind and check measurements when selecting your size before purchasing.

Cowichan Sweater

Vintage Cowichan Sweater

Vintage Cowichan Sweater

Vintage Cowichan Sweater

Square Dancing Cowichan Sweater

Cowichan Sweater

Cowichan Sweater

Cowichan Sweater

What I’m Wearing: Square Dancing Vintage Cowichan Sweater | Anna Sui for Inc. Dazzler Western Boots | Pim + Larkin Fit and Flare Dress | H&M Scarf | Old Navy Turtleneck |

Click to SHOP Vintage Cowichan Sweaters:

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44 Comments

  1. I love love love my new Cowichan! It pretty much pairs with any outfit. Thank you Christie Moeller and Little Miss Cozy Sweater 😉

  2. I’ve got a couple knitted wool sweaters, and for sure they are warm! I collect Native American art and jewelry, so now I’ve got to see if I can find a cowichan with a native t heme!

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