The Meaning And History Of The Cardigan: An Emphasis On Cashmere Jackets
A cardigan refers to a type of sweater or jumper that opens down the front. Unlike a pullover-style sweater, a cardigan typically buttons, ties, or zips from the front. Its design often encompasses long sleeves and is knitted in various materials, from wool to cotton. Over the centuries, the cardigan has maintained its relevance in fashion and clothing and in this article we will be discussing its meaning and history, with an emphasis on cashmere jackets.
Origins of the Cardigan
The origin of the term ‘Cardigan’ in relation to this signature piece of attire dates back to the 7th Earl of Cardigan, British Army Major General James Brudenell. Legend has it that during the Crimean War in the mid-19th century, he led the Charge of the Light Brigade at the Battle of Balaclava. Upon his return, the Earl found immense popularity and started a fad in his own right by creating sweaters that copied his regiment’s waistcoats. These garment pieces would inevitably become what we know today as ‘cardigans’.
The Evolution of the Cardigan
Through the years, the cardigan has undergone significant changes in design and material. Initially, cardigans were thick and heavy, made for warmth and comfort. In recent decades, lighter designs and synthetic materials, such as rayon and viscose, have been employed for producing cardigans. This flexibility has allowed the cardigan to migrate from exclusively winter wardrobes to being a year-round piece of clothing.
Cardigans as Fashion Statements
The cardigan’s versatility transcends just seasons, it has also proven to be both casual and formal wear. Paired with a nice shirt and tie, it can form a part of a formal ensemble. Conversely, when worn over a basic t-shirt, it serves as a casual outfit. In any case, the cardigan offers functionality, versatility, and aesthetics.
The Cashmere Jackets
The phrase cashmere jackets refers to cardigans made from cashmere, a type of wool that is luxuriously soft, warm, and lightweight. Originating from the cashmere goat, this material is known for its superior heat retention qualities relative to common wool. Cashmere cardigans tend to be on the pricier side due to the scarcity and labor-intensive process of obtaining and processing the material. Nonetheless, the comfort, durability, and softness provided by cashmere cardigans justify their cost.
Cardigans crafted from cashmere, often referred to as cashmere jackets, serve as fashionable and comfortable attire that encapsulate the classic allure of the cardigan while promoting a sense of luxury and sophistication. These jackets, durable and finely knitted, provide longevity and finesse with perceived comfort that outshines other materials. The soft, warm, and lightweight nature of cashmere jackets enhances the wearer’s comfort, especially in colder climates, yet the breathability of cashmere ensures comfort across all seasons.
Conclusion
The cardigan, named after an English Earl and once a heavy woolen garment, has grown and evolved over centuries to become a timeless, fashionable, and functional piece of attire straddling both formal and casual wear boundaries. The entry of premium choices such as the cashmere jackets only reiterates the unwavering popularity and adaptability of the cardigan in the fashion world.