Wardrobe Basic: The Cardigan

My mad crush on cardigans has nothing to do with energy conservation. I’ve had this weak spot for over two decades now. Starting with wearing twin sets in the late 80′s, my favorite work uniform then which, against all likelihood, I actually wore quite stylishly. Now, some twenty odd some years later, I wouldn’t dare pairing anything so matchy-matchy unless I was into purposefully aging myself into the “wearing sensible shoes only” age group. Which I am not.

But, let’s be clear, I still love cardigans. A lot. They are a staple in my wardrobe and now that the weather is cooling off, I can affirm that they are actually an essential element for “transition of seasons” dressing.

Cardigans come in every possible shape, length, material, thickness and color, but I’m mainly referring to the most classic (and thus versatile) version of the cardigan, button front, long sleeves, hip length. A great item to dress up or dress down a skirt, pants, jeans or even a simple dress. I love to wear cardigans knotted over my shoulder, sometimes in the place of a scarf.  I was “forced” to do a little fantasy shopping on Polyvore.com (as you can see from the above collage) to demonstrate – as if you didn’t already know – how a simple cardigan can take on so many styles. Cardigans add color and interest to any outfit. A patterned cardigan is great over solid colors and vice versa.  Besides that, they also allow us to stretch our summer dresses and tees a little longer into the fall season. Wear them belted, with a scarf… Oh, and they are a great layering piece, especially under this season’s boyfriend blazers. Michelle Obama is also a great fan of the cardigan. See how InStyle Magazine captured her style here.

In case you now have an irremediable need to go shopping for a cardigan – or two, I’ve poked around and found these well priced ones:

This one from Boden. They have several other models. I like Boden because it doesn’t take its classic too seriously. Mostly always free shipping and get on their mailing list to get their 20% or more discounts.

Gap is great for their classic basics. This cardigan is a perfect example. Six colors in this particular model. Something to go with everything!

Cheap. Cheap. This cable knit cardigan from Old Navy is only $25. At that price, the quality might not make it an “enduring” classic, but at least one won’t feel too bad for going for a trendy color, of which there are 13 to choose.

What’s not to like! There is also embroidery on the back. I know that Anthropologie would style this cardigan with all sorts of patterns and textures and “bold” accessories. I would rather be tempted in showcasing it by wearing it simply with jeans. And funky shoes.

A classic cashmere crewneck cardigan by J. Crew. Available in 19 colors! So, whatever your cardigan needs may be, they can surely be met here!

Banana Republic does great classics too. This cardigan looks a little more formal too me. Probably a better choice for dressing in a “serious” work  environment…

Garnet Hill sells many types of cardigans. I arrested my choice on the printed ones, because I think that wearing one over solid colors or denims would add interest to the outfit. Nice graphics and color combinations.

And,thought you’d like to know:  just like the sandwich which was named after an Earl, so was the cardigan, named after the Earl of… Cardigan, who wore a knitted waistcoat. thankyouwikipedia.