January 31, 2020
Trend Alert: Cardigans Offer Cozy Style
A great layering piece for promo and uniform programs, the button-down sweater is trending in the fashion world as well.
No longer is the humble cardigan relegated to the backs of office chairs, on call for any sudden dips in climate-controlled air. This classic piece of knitwear is having a fashion moment, with models like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner gadding about town in barely buttoned, belly-baring cardis. Last fall, actress Katie Holmes went viral for pairing a chunky gray sweater that slid off one shoulder to reveal a matching cashmere bra.
Pop singer Dua Lipa recently showed off a DIY version of the look on Instagram, pairing a doctored sweatshirt with a strawberry dotted tank top.
In a somewhat different vein, cardigans are also making a comeback in menswear. Searches for men’s cardigans on fashion resale site Poshmark spiked 79% after the Mr. Rogers’ biopic, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, premiered in September, according to GQ. And Kurt Cobain’s iconic olive-green cardigan, worn for his 1993 MTV Unplugged appearance, recently sold at auction last fall for $334,000.
Don’t expect the cardigan trend to lose steam this year, either. In fact, Elite Daily recently pondered whether 2020 might be the year of the sweater, pointing to half-buttoned and tie-front cardigans as evidence.
This traditional cardigan (7138) from Edwards Garment (asi/51752) offers warmth and style.
Men’s cardigans, like this zip-up version (381) from Edwards Garment, are also trending.
In the world of promotional and corporate apparel, the cardigan works well as a layering piece, providing both style and warmth. “I don’t think there’s a person today who travels without one or two of their favorite cardigan styles,” says Taraynn Lloyd, vice president of marketing at Edwards Garment (asi/51752). “A great cardigan is like a best friend. They just seem to know your every mood. They’re there to wrap you in warmth and versatile enough to be worn just around your shoulders.”
The Mila (LB648) from Tri-Mountain (asi/92125) features three-quarter sleeves and a flowy fit.
The Ava (LB924) from Tri-Mountain offers a more classic cardigan look.
Because they come in so many different styles, there’s a cardigan out there for every age and taste – from heavy to lightweight knits, buttoned up to loose and flowy, according to Jennifer Oyoung, vice president of operations at Tri-Mountain (asi/92125) and creator of its Lilac Bloom line. “Neutral color cardigans like black, gray, navy or tan are useful staples in anyone’s wardrobe,” she adds. “Fun, bright colors like red, vino, mustard, bright blue or an animal print can add bold color without being too flashy.”
In terms of decoration, Oyoung and Lloyd agree that embroidery is the best choice because of its classic vibe and higher perceived value. “Sweaters, in general, take embroidery the best,” Lloyd says. “The thread just loves the knitted yarns, and the decoration really pops on a sweater.”
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