Feature Friday: Cardigans

Today's Feature Friday focuses on cardigans, that comfy, run out the door sweater that is perfect for mildly cool days.

The "cardigan" was named after  the 7th Earl of Cardigan, James Thomas Brudenell, a British military commander during the Crimean War.

They became popular in in 17th Century France as well as the British Isles, where fisherman adopted this heavy, hand-knitted wool apparel to stay warm on cold days.

Once created with wool, a cardigan generally has buttons or other fastening pieces in the front. These buttons will help to close the front of the sweater either from the bottom to the top or perhaps only to the middle of the torso, depending on the style and the cut. Some cardigans will also have zippers instead of buttons that can help to secure the sweater in the front.

The most famous wearer of the cardigan sweater is said to be Mr. Rogers - the children's TV show host. You may remember that Mr. Rogers used to change into his cardigan at the beginning of every television episode.

I think it's pretty safe to say that cardigans are available in almost any color imaginable. They can be that last piece to really make an outfit, or just a quick on-the-go garment to keep you warm.

How many cardigans do you own?

Sources:
http://www.fibre2fashion.com/industry-article/1/64/the-history-of-the-cardigan-sweater1.asp
http://www.cardigansweater.com/what-is-a-cardigan-cardigan-sweater-history.html