What’s a Cardigan?

When you think of comfort, versatility, and style in clothing, your mind may not immediately jump to the word ‘cardigan.’ Yet, this often under-appreciated knitwear piece can be all that and much more. The cardigan, with its unique history and distinctive style, has been a staple in wardrobes around the globe for centuries.

The cardigan is a type of knitted garment that is open at the front. This popular knitwear style typically has buttons or hooks in the front, although there are also modern versions with open fronts or zipper closures. Cardigans can come in a variety of designs, including V-necks, crew necks, and even waterfall fronts, which drape down in the front.

If you’re wondering where the name ‘cardigan’ originated, it’s from the 7th Earl of Cardigan in the 19th Century, a British military man named James Brudenell. He popularized the style during the Crimean War when he wore a knitted waistcoat during his time in the freezing Russian weather. it was soon adopted by many as a practical and versatile piece of clothing.

An essential charm of the cardigan lies in its versatility. Whether you’re headed to a business meeting or a coffee shop, a cardigan can adapt to your needs. You can wear it buttoned up, open, or even belted. Moreover, it comes in different materials, colors, and patterns, making it an ideal layering piece for all seasons. It can be thrown over a dress during summer evenings or layered over a turtleneck during cold winter months.

Perhaps the most luxurious variant of this versatile garment is the cashmere cardigan. Cashmere is a fine, soft kind of wool that is sourced from cashmere goats. It’s known to be exceptionally warm, lightweight and incredibly soft to the touch, making it the ultimate material for comfort and luxury. While cashmere cardigans may be slightly more expensive than their cotton or polyester counterparts, their superior quality, longevity, and unparalleled comfort makes them a worthwhile investment.

If you’re ready to add an elegant layering piece to your wardrobe, you may want to buy cashmere knitwear.

When shopping for cardigans, it’s important to understand the different types available. There is the classic button-down cardigan, the open-front cardigan, the waterfall cardigan, and the oversized cardigan, each offering a unique style and fit.

Color and pattern choices, too, can make a difference. Solids are great for mixing and matching with multiple outfits, while patterns can add visual interest and personality to an otherwise plain outfit. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different colors and patterns to find what works best for you.

Finally, while a cardigan may seem like a simple piece of clothing, the right one can truly elevate an outfit, adding color, texture and warmth. Whether it’s a bite in the spring breeze or a chill in the winter air, there’s something wonderfully assuring about wrapping yourself in the cozy comfort of a cardigan. With countless styles and designs available today, there’s a cardigan out there for everyone. Whether you seek casual comfort or classy elegance, you’re sure to find it in a cardigan. Embrace the cardigan trend and tailor it to your personal style.