Anniversaries, Adaptations, and Appointments

This autumn will be the joyous 36th anniversary of the Chalet in the Woods. I am grateful. The Chalet has maintained a commitment to high quality gifts and clothing from Northern Europe, excellent customer service and a welcoming environment.

The tupa at the Chalet, a place for gathering, hosting, events, and classes

While adhering to these core values, there remains the ability to adapt. This flexibility has helped immensely in the last three trying years. Perhaps the biggest change was the move to being open by appointment. After a two year trial, this will continue; it has helped to create the best customer experience. For example, we are able to host a group without interrupting the quiet day someone else was hoping for. There have been Chalet book clubs and craft days, groups from out of state shopping and picnicking as several of the How to Harvest a Sweater experiences.

We look forward to seeing you to help you renew your wardrobe with well-fitting clothing, new textiles for your home, and gifts for the holidays ahead.

Saint James Colorado Zipped Cardigan

Saint James’ Colorado cardigan is a sober, timeless piece. Characterised by its zip fastening and welt pockets, it is practical and easy to wear. The inner collar has a contrasting trim, for an elegant touch.

• Jersey

• Zipped jacket

• High neck

• Welt pockets

• Contrasting inner neck

• Rib trim on neck, cuffs and lower body

• Comfy wool (100%)

• Regular fit

• Length : 28-1/3 inches; 72 cm

Labor of Love: Saint James has been busy!

Purveyors of the Original Breton Shirt

Our Normandy atelier has been busy knitting striped sweaters and Breton shirts since 1889. To make a quality garment is an expert’s job, a matter of precision, requiring accuracy, skills, and attention. We are grateful for your continued appreciation of our timeless collection.

The Nautical Sweater

The first Saint James garment was created in 1889. It was a wool sweater for sailors. It protects them so well from the cold and humidity that they considered it their second skin. An iconic garment was born.

The Breton Striped Shirt

Over its 130+ years in business, the Saint James brand has evolved from a workshop supplying sweaters to local Breton fishermen to fashioning the iconic wardrobe staple known as the Marinière or Breton shirt.

Our Compass

For the last 130 years, Saint James clothing’s identity has been linked to artisanal, slow fashion knitting know-how developed through a close “family” of employees. We are heirs to a nautical tradition that we are proud to share in France and around the world. We work every day to produce high-quality products, combining high standards, simplicity, and elegance.

How to Harvest a Sweater

What a year we have had. We continue to face both unknowns and clarity. I am longing to reconnect with dear friends in intimate gatherings while resisting going back to a life that felt hurried and over planned. I want to be more intentional with my time. How are you feeling?

The Chalet is offering afternoon classes on “How to Harvest a Sweater” exploring the processes that take raw wool to yarn ready for knitting or weaving. You may want to gather up a few friends, attend a class, bring a picnic and shop at the Chalet. The hydrangea gardens are in bloom in the cedar forest and make for a restorative day. It feels soothing to set aside the electronics and have your hands in natural materials while enjoying the forest garden and the sounds of the baaing sheep.

I understand that many of you are more comfortable venturing out slowly and may want to begin with a shopping trip, possibly some new Saint James clothing to start your reentry process. We are ready with a shop full of possibilities.

The Chalet remains open by appointment, please do not show up without one. To sign up for a class or visit for a shopping trip, call and leave a message or email the Chalet.