Cardigan Guide for Men

The cardigan craze has fully hit the fashion scene running. Males and females alike have embraced classically styled outfits with fitted pants (for men), dark rimmed glasses, and comfortably cut cardigans. However, many American men feel like this charming and classic style is not a decent replacement for hooded sweatshirts and blue jeans-at least not one that they can "pull off" with dignity and ease. Still, many American guys wish that they could wear cardigans with the confidence that they won't appear as a ridiculous throwback attempt. While confidence is clearly the key to "rocking" any outfit, here are several additional points of advice for any male desiring to try out this style.

First off, find a cardigan that fits your frame comfortably but not too loosely. The sleeves should fit comfortably enough to be worn over long sleeved collared shirt, but not too loosely that they cause the wearer to appear as if he has stolen his overweight grandfather's high school cardigan. Properly cut male- appropriate cardigans should be longer than most female versions, with a lower collar. A v-necked collar line typically looks best with these light weight outer sweaters, but a crew necked cardigan can be an acceptable fashion choice as well. Choose a cardigan with large, firmly sewn buttons, and leave one button undone when wearing your sweater.

Secondly, pair your cardigan with straight cut pants. Be sure that these trousers aren't too baggy; baggy pants are an affair of the latest couple of decades and don't exactly have "classic" written all over their sagging bottoms. Instead, wear your well- pressed, straight cut pants with your newly purchased cardigan; it is fashionable for such pants to actually be short enough that they reveal your ankles (covered by dark dress socks) when sitting. While this style of pants might be considered "nerdy" for today's baggy styled pop cultured trends, these pants will look charmingly classy when worn with a cardigan.

Finally, finish off your "cardigan-look" with the right shoes. The right shoes can probably best be found in your grandfather's closet, but barring that option, you might want to invest in a pair of dark leather shoes. Dark brown oxfords are always a good option, but if you have the financial means to afford more expensive shoes, then Alden cordovans are also a great, classy investment. For the most versatility, purchase a pair of shoes that has a good balance between a very pointed and very round toe. As briefly mentioned previously, be sure to remember to wear these shoes with a pair of dark dress socks.