Cardigan Sweaters
A cardigan sweater is simply a sweater that has buttons, hooks, or zippers up the front. The cardigan sweater’s namesake is the 7th Earl of Cardigan, James Thomas Brudenell who was a British military commander during the Crimean War. During the 17th century the cardigan became wildly popular in France, and the British Isles, with fisherman, who used them to layer for extra warmth in the cold winter. Production of the cardigan sweaters took off on Ireland’s coast, where they are still made today, along with many, many other locations around the world.
Cardigan sweaters come in all shapes and sizes, all colors, and can be found in most clothing stores. It is an acceptable addition to most any outfit, and worn anywhere. A cardigan is particularly handy for people who tend to get cold easily, because it lends warmth, without the bulk of a full coat or jacket. Some will tie a cardigan around the waist, or the shoulders, for a more casual look, while some may simply have it handy for when they may need it. Since there are so many styles to the cardigan sweater, they can be worn for any occasion, such as a nice party, or to a football game. Having one or even more in one’s closet is appropriate for all types of climates and weather. Many people have them, because they can add just the right “look”, or in order to “layer” an outfit for uncertain weather conditions. The sweater is a staple in both men’s and women’s wardrobes.
The cardigan sweater can be made with most any type of fabric, such as cotton, rayon, wool, cashmere, polyester, lycra, linen, or even silk, and plenty more. They can be made for babies to adults, women to men, although they appear to be more popular for women than for men these days. They can also be fused together with other more “utility” fabrics to add bulk for extra warmth and style. The sweaters come in many different patterns, such as stripes, argyle, plaid, or even polka dots for lots of fun and fashion! Many people enjoy taking the cardigan look up a notch by accessorizing them with scarves, belts, ties, or a broach, or you could have fancy buttons added! There are probably a million different ways to don these sweaters, and be fashion forward. From the everyday look, to the dressed up occasions, from the average Joe to the celebrity style, the cardigan sweater is for absolutely everyone!