Margaret Thatcher’s 1975 Nine Flags jumper is back—but not as a tribute to the Iron Lady. London-based design duo Common Market has revived the iconic knit, bringing it into the modern debate over Europe.
With the EU referendum stirring discussions about Britain’s future, this jumper serves as a visual reminder of the UK’s historical stance on European unity. But why was this design so significant in the first place?
The Story Behind the Nine Flags Jumper
In 1975, Britain held a referendum on whether to remain in the European Economic Community (EEC). At the time, Conservative leader Margaret Thatcher campaigned in favor of staying, wearing a sweater adorned with the flags of the nine EEC member nations:
- Belgium
- France
- Italy
- Luxembourg
- Netherlands
- West Germany
- Ireland
- Denmark
- United Kingdom
The design symbolized unity and a shared European identity. Ironically, today’s political landscape has shifted, with many of Thatcher’s ideological followers now advocating for separation from the EU.
Why Revive the Jumper Now?
Common Market founders Emma Shore and Alasdair Hiscock were inspired by the historical irony of Thatcher’s pro-Europe stance in contrast to modern Conservative policies. Shore explains:
“We stumbled across photos of Thatcher in the jumper and looked into its history. What stood out was the positivity of that campaign—the idea of embracing a common Europe.”
Their version of the jumper isn’t meant as an outright political statement. Instead, it’s a way to spark discussions about the evolution of Britain’s relationship with Europe.
A Symbol for Both Sides of the Debate
One of the most intriguing aspects of this design is how it appeals to both sides of the EU debate.
- Right-wing Thatcher supporters might be surprised that she once advocated for remaining in Europe.
- Left-wing voters, who typically reject anything linked to Thatcher, might ironically embrace the kitsch nostalgia of this design.
As Shore puts it:
“We enjoy the conflict of it appealing to Thatcher-loving right-wingers who want to leave, and kitsch-loving left-wingers who don’t want to wear a Thatcher tribute.”
Fashion with a Message
While Common Market has made it clear that they personally support Remain, the jumper itself doesn’t take a direct political stance. Shore emphasizes:
“It’s not really about convincing people. If a jumper could swing an election, that would be worrying. But it’s important to show that there’s more to this campaign than just economic arguments.”
Whether worn as a historical reference, a fashion statement, or a conversation starter, the Nine Flags jumper remains a symbol of Britain’s long and complex relationship with Europe.
Where to Get It
Currently, Common Market sells their clothing in Japan, but if demand rises, we might see a wider release of this thought-provoking knit.
Would you wear the Nine Flags jumper? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
