Another forgotten favourite, the cardigan.
I’m talking about a classic style, “tailored” not too long and not the too short style of button-up sweater. Wearing these with a man-style shirt and jeans or trousers was once one of my most worn looks – the cardigan was a relaxed alternative to the blazer but still had the put-together feel I wanted. I was a fan of lace-up flat shoes and would wear those – they need to come back too.
Cardigans can be very tricky and go very wrong.
Too long or too full and they run the risk of looking very dowdy. A trim, two-pocket button-up is another matter; they remind me of an old-fashioned cardigan my grandfather would wear with his shirt and tie.
Wearing a cardigan with an A-line skirt or fuller style mid-length is also a winner. Imagine a pretty blouse underneath or simply alone with tights and lace-ups, a small heel or a pair of booties. The cardigan is a very practical and also comfortable addition to both mid-season and winter wardrobes. A heavy coat can sit comfortably on top when we need it.
More and more I am falling back to familiar pieces; to the classics I know and trust. I wear them differently than I once did but I am starting to see a pattern. The cardigans were a staple, in grey, in black and sometimes in a camel colour (paired with grey flannel trousers and a white shirt) and a work uniform for me.
The cardigan will never replace a blazer for me – a tailored blazer will always hold first place – but they make a wonderful alternative when the structure of a fitted jacket is prohibitive.
I’m all for alternatives and making our wardrobes work together. Never underestimate this one. xv
This Is The Style I’m Talking About
1901 wool & cashmere cardigan || madewell arbour cardigan sweater || joseph button cashmere cardigan
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image,carolyn murphy, naked cashmere 19
