The Preppy Cardigan Makes a Comeback

Everlane cashmere cardigan, Everlane ‘cheeky jeans’ (similar straight leg jeans here), old belt (shop more belts here), Sam Edelman heels (shop more SE here), Everlane bag (shop work totes here)

Cardigans were my lifeline when I graduated college.  During the summer, I’d keep one in my bag for the air-conditioned office; during the winter, I’d always be wearing one over my “going out” tops (you know what I’m talking about).  They kept me the perfect temperature on a plane when I was constantly traveling and were a pillar of my work wardrobe.  Then, I switched industries where I could be as casual as I wanted–I ditched my cardigans.  I traded in my pencil skirts for skinny jeans and my cadigans for oversized sweaters and leather jackets.

Almost a decade later, I’ve “rediscovered” the cardigan.  I’ve been craving a sweater that’s a little more refined–a bit more ladylike.  And while it looks lovely over a dress or skirt, I am loving it with a pair of straight leg jeans. Wearing it over dresses or with skirts is a perfectly feminine option; I find I can pair it just as easily with cool-looking denim these days.  So, I’m reclaiming my love for the cardigan–having a cashmere option doesn’t hurt, either.