My first encounter with a cardigan was probably sometime in grade school, most likely worn by my teacher who was pushing 70-years-old. However, the cozy, button up sweater has struck a chord with the whipper snappers of our generation.
Today, Old Navy's advertisements for "Party Cardis" put a bold and youthful spin on the pin up sweater. One Fashionista used her lime green cardigan as the centerpiece in her outfit, pairing it with a neutral ruffled top and denim skirt.
Designers have also reinvented the structure of your average cardigan. Free People have lowered the hemlines with their hippie chic cardigans, while Juicy Couture has added a risqué slit to the back of their preppy sweaters. At the same time, menswear version of the cardigan has also made a comeback. Express's line of preppy sweaters, though classy, may have some Fashionistos feeling too much like Harry Potter. One alternative are Urban Outfitters' nerdy chic sweaters, which will have you looking sharp, minus the Hogwarts.
Fashionistas, when donning a "Party Cardi" use this opportunity to express your preppy side. Pair a cropped cardigan, these tweed, high waisted shorts and skinny belt, camisole top, and lace up booties.
Hint: To emphasize a slender waistline, cinch a skinny belt around your cardigan at your waist.