Guernsey (clothing)

A guernsey is a seaman's knitted woollen sweater, similar to a jersey, differing in that it is thicker and more likely to be hand knitted, or in having such an appearance in contrast to the latter's finer knit.

Related Topics:
Sweater - Jersey

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The traditional Guernsey, and traditional Jersey, are dyed a navy blue colour, using a dye that does not require stripping the wool of its natural oil, rendering these sweaters surprisingly water resistant. Although patterned in the body and upper sleeves, the lower part of the sleeves are knit plain so that when the elbow or wrist area is worn through, the lower sleeves can be cut off and reknit.

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Guernseys were first widely used in the rating uniform of the nineteenth century British Royal Navy, and as with the Jersey was named after the Channel Island of the same name.

Related Topics:
Nineteenth century - British - Royal Navy - Jersey - Channel Island - The same name

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In Australia, a guernsey is a sleeveless woollen shirt worn sometimes by rugby players. The top worn by Australian rules football players is more properly a "jumper", though it is still frequently called a "guernsey". Thus, "to get a guernsey" is to be selected for something or to gain recognition for an achievement.

Related Topics:
Australia - Rugby - Australian rules football

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