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Winter is going the Cardigan Way

Written by audreyleighton

Mr. Rogers didn't only have his perfect neighbourhood, he also had an impressive collection of chunky knit cardigans - a collection that now has the ability to make this season's fashionistas green with envy.

This cosy garment, first named after James Thomas Brodwell, a British military commander during the Crimean War, and the 7th Earl of Cardigan, is officially this winter's simplest yet most reliable staple.

We all have some sort of cardigan in our closet, but this winter has welcomed the bulky grandpa style back into our lives. From cotton knits to double-breasted styles to hugely oversized- it seems geek chic has taken a new turn and found inspiration in the most surprising of people: old men.

Matched with leggings, high-waisted jeans or even lace tights - the cardigan allows for huge layering potential - and this can often obliterate the need for a huge heavy winter coat. Strive to channel Keira Knightley or Sienna Miller in The Edge of Love for a truly wintry, wholesome look. Or let yourself reminisce over your schooldays, by pairing knee socks with a more oversized style. Check out the piles of sweaters in thrift shops and flea markets for an authentic "senior citizen-style" cardigan.

It may be that no one will ever succeed in wearing the cardigan as well as the man who welcomed you to the neighbourhood, but winter is beckoning for us all to try this trend out. So, go for the old, or the oversized or both - just be sure to always do it old man style. Make Mr. Rogers proud.

Article by Audrey Rogers - check out Audrey's blog at http://www.befrassy.com.

Written: 22nd October 2008 at 16.36