The Cardigan Sweater

  • Lifestyle
  • Outerwear
  • Winter

This classic piece of outerwear has evolved over the years to suit the wearer.
From its subzero birth at sea, to a more present life ashore, the cardigan sweater is nothing short of a Winter staple.




BRIEF HISTORY


Named after British Military Commander James Thomas Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan, this sweater is typically made in fabrics from wool to cotton, and even more signature fabrics like cashmere. A cardigan is a type of button-front sweater also known as a ‘jumper’. Becoming more commonly worn toward the 17th century, the working class especially took to wearing these heavier sweaters to keep warm during the bitterly cold Winter. Fisherman in particular popularized this look giving cardigans a more nautical attribute.

Cardigans range in construction, usually having a v-neck collar, but also being seen in anything from shawl-collars to even faux-fur collars. Some manufactured with button-front, or zipper-front, while others use a navy-inspired toggle design.


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DETAILS

• Quilted Gilet – J. Crew
• Toggle Shawl-collar Cardigan – J. Crew
• Legend Wash Crewneck T-shirt – Eddie Bauer
• Create Jobs for USA Wristband – Starbucks⁂
• Slim Fit Chino Trouser – Land’s End Canvas
•Striped Socks – BDG
•Mexico 66 Sneaker – Asics Onitsuka Tiger
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THE HARBOR

It’s no mystery the cardigan makes quite a useful layering piece during the Winter season. Unlike the bulky, over-sized design of our elder generation, cardigans today feature more trim silhouettes and some like this one use toggles rather than buttons. Fitted with a shawl-collar, these nautical-inspired sweaters pays fitting homage while exploring the harbor. A short stroll on the docks reveals a certain presence of the open sea. The nonchalant melody of waves crashing ashore, in tune with the subtle sway of bell buoys. Among the mass of chatty seagulls shadowing from above, interrupted by the overpowering bellow of fog horns. A simple, yet absorbing experience. (Press to begin.)























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“ If a man knows not what harbor he seeks, any wind is the right wind. – Lucius Annaeus Seneca


INDIVISIBLE

Another go-to piece this Winter is none other than a quilted gilet or vest. After a few wears, it becomes obvious how versatile and functional these vests are. They’re designed with ample storage room for the outdoors. As complex as life is, sometimes we benefit more from our more simple days. Leaving the collared shirt at home, something like a long-sleeve crew neck shirt in the right thickness works well. Speaking of simplicity, I find myself more on the simple side when it comes to accessories. With just a single band, I’ve decided to add another in support of a good cause after having learned of it at a local Starbucks. These ‘Indivisible’ wristbands stand for the creation of jobs for America, with 100% profit of each one sold going to further their efforts. Even if the impact is slight individually, these gestures can greatly impact others collectively.


CREATURES OF COMFORT


The day certainly comes when one must retire the wingtips or loafers for a moment in turn for the more appropriate and comfortable sneaker. A casual piece of footwear all the same, matched with your favorite pair of funky socks making them a great wear for days like these where constant walking is inevitable. Sneakers also offer the grip for trekking that a proper dress shoe, no matter how good looking, cannot. Lastly these chino pants from Land’s End Canvas have a great feel, their slim fit line is something I can rely on having confirmed the fit with my first pair during the Café Racer Jacket post.

Expressions Realia wants to wish you a Happy New Year! Many thanks to those who have supported our journey even as it unfolds.

6 Notes

  1. victor
    January 1, 2012

    Great job on the layout guys.

    Reply
    • ∞ (unyime)
      January 2, 2012

      Thank you Victor.

      Reply
  2. martijn
    January 2, 2012

    The tigers! Always wanted a pair myself. Great job and design is on another level

    Reply
  3. jenn
    January 2, 2012

    your new layout is siiick! i love it so much, good job! Really digging the asics…i’d borrow them if i could, lol. i cant wait to see all your amazing new posts on the new layout. keep it up, yall!

    Reply
  4. jack
    January 2, 2012

    I just found this website a few days ago, and I really love it.
    Keep up the great work. Liking the new layout too!

    Reply
    • ∞ (unyime)
      January 2, 2012

      Glad to hear it Jack!

      Reply

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