The history of the cardigan in world of fashion.

Cardigans have been a staple in fashion for over a century. Originally created for practical purposes, the cardigan has become a versatile and timeless piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. In this article, we'll explore the history of cardigans in fashion, from their humble beginnings to their place in modern-day style.

The cardigan sweater was first created in the mid-1800s by James Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan. The Earl, who was known for his role in the Crimean War, wanted a practical garment for his soldiers to wear during cold weather. The cardigan sweater, named after the Earl himself, was designed to be an open-front sweater that could be easily taken off and put on.

The cardigan's practicality made it a popular choice among soldiers, and it soon began to make its way into civilian fashion. In the early 1900s, the cardigan was worn primarily by men, who would pair it with a collared shirt and tie for a smart-casual look. Women began to adopt the cardigan in the 1920s, wearing it with skirts and dresses for a more feminine look.

The cardigan really took off in the 1950s, when it became a symbol of preppy style. College students, in particular, embraced the cardigan as a way to add a touch of sophistication to their outfits. The cardigan was often worn over a collared shirt with a pair of khaki pants, creating a classic look that has remained popular to this day.

In the 1960s, the cardigan began to take on a more bohemian feel, with chunky knit versions becoming popular. The cardigan also became a staple in women's fashion during this time, with designers like Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent incorporating it into their collections.

In the 1980s, the cardigan became a symbol of preppy, yuppie style. The popular TV show "Miami Vice" featured actor Don Johnson wearing a pastel-colored cardigan over a t-shirt, further cementing the cardigan's place in popular culture.

Today, the cardigan remains a popular item of clothing, with designers like Ralph Lauren and J.Crew incorporating it into their collections season after season. The cardigan has also become a popular choice for layering, as it can be easily worn over a t-shirt or under a jacket.

In conclusion, the cardigan sweater has a rich history in fashion, from its humble beginnings as a practical garment for soldiers to its place as a versatile and timeless piece of clothing in modern-day style. Whether you prefer a classic, preppy look or a more bohemian feel, the cardigan is sure to remain a fashion staple for years to come.