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Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Fashion 263
Should we say winter is here? Or we are quick to judge.
Anyway, I hope you all prepared for it.
On social media last week, there was a debate on wearing a suit with sneakers with most men asking if it is proper and professional to wear such a style.
Yes, please you can rock your suit with sneakers, but it also depends on the occasion, type of suit and sneakers.
What you also need to know is that men’s fashion, all start as sports clothes and progress to the great occasions of state and fashion repeats.
I was having a discussion with my boss about wearing a cardigan and suit to work which we later took to Twitter where he even posted a picture of late Joshua Nkomo and late Ndabaningi Sithole wearing theirs.
Some thought of the cardigan sweater worn by a sympathetic grandfather sitting by the fire, smoking a pipe or a college professor.
In fact, you will think of “old ballies” but have you thought of a student wearing a school blazer and a cardigan.
From one view point they may seem a little “old-fashioned,” but they also represent maturity and a secure, sociable, calm authority — steadiness over faddishness.
Good fashion sense is timeless.
Wearing a cardigan and a suit gives out that gentleman outlook.
While cardigans may have an old school feel, it is perfectly possible to wear them in a way that is sharp and up-to-date, thus conveying both style and stability need not be a contradiction.
According to the history of cardigan, from Art of Manliness, it dated back from the mid-19th century, where members of the British military had taken to wearing thick knitted sweater coats, and no one wore them with more regularity and panache than James Thomas Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan.
The cardigan emerged across the pond in the form of letterman sweaters worn by American high school and college students, which were emblazoned on the left breast with cloth letters that signified the achievement of certain standards in athletics and other activities.
Stripes on the sweater’s sleeve indicated further awards.
The tradition of the letterman cardigan began at Harvard in the late 19th century, and particularly took off during the Roaring 20s, when the sweater became a prominent example of preppy collegiate style.
In the 30s, the cardigan also became go-to outerwear for the golf course, then in the 1950s, the cardigan had a resurgence, both in the form of letterman sweaters, and as golfing attire. Crooners like Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, and Bing Crosby frequently rocked the sweater both while hanging out and hitting the links (Como made them his trademark look on his weekly television show).
Though the cardigan became popular day-to-day wear among celebrities, as well as creative, “avant-garde” types on the West Coast, it was too casual for the typical mid-century man to wear to the office.
It was casual, comfortable, but smart-looking leisure wear. Well, back to the closet after learning more about cardigan, seems we have best options on how to rock it.
Winter means changing colours and changing your wardrobe, a little.
It is true that you need to stay suited up for work, but the typical of suit and shirt combo might not be warm enough and at the same time, it is not yet time to don the overcoat or a trench. While the term “cardigan” can cover many styles, it essentially refers to a knitted jumper that opens at the front.
The classical style comes in many varieties, making this wardrobe staple ideal for almost every occasion. Although the garment may not be considered modern or exciting, it is adept at adding a polished and stylish touch to outfits.
So how should a cardigan fit?
Trends Spotter said that finding the right fit for your cardigan depends greatly on the look you are trying to achieve.
“If you want to create a relaxed or casual appearance, try a loose style.
“If you’re after an outfit that appears more polished, consider fitted cardigans that lightly hug your body. No matter which style you’re going for, you should only ever choose cardigans that fit your size, or the proportions may appear awkward,” said fashion writer Taylah Brewer.
Here are the types of cardigans
As mentioned, a cardigan can refer to many unique styles. From loose longline silhouettes and chunky cable knits to dapper button-ups and sophisticated shawl collar styles, the seemingly simple cardigan comes in countless varieties.
While all these styles may fall under the same category, each is unique and will contribute a different aesthetic to your overall outfit.
Longline cardigan
A longline cardigan is an ideal option for casual occasions.
The elongated silhouette of a longline cardigan gives it a relaxed aesthetic that works perfectly for weekend looks.
As the style is most commonly available in light weight knitted fabrics, it also makes a great transitional piece for spring and autumn.
Try one for yourself with a pair of black skinny jeans and a relaxed t-shirt.
Shawl collar cardigan
To be honest this one is my favourite.
A shawl collar is a rounded turned-down collar that commonly appears on cardigans.
In general, styles that feature a shawl collar tend to be thicker and chunkier than other cardigans, making them perfect for chilly days.
Due to this added weight and the structure of the collar, these cardigans often appear polished and sophisticated.
You can wear it with a dark denim and a relaxed button-up for a smart casual style.
Button-up cardigan
A button-up cardigan is one of the most common types available. When styled right, a button-up cardigan can appear sophisticated and suave. To keep things modern and masculine, choose a slim, well-fitted style with simple buttons. As such a cardigan will appear more formal, you can even try wearing it with a suit.
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