The Boyfriend Cardigan

IN A STATION OF THE METRO
The apparition of these faces in the crowd;
Petals on a wet black bough.

I was reminded of Ezra Pound’s famous haiku while walking through New York City’s crowded streets one gray, dreary day in October. The same sight kept popping up, surprising and delighting me each time with its freshness: a beautiful girl in something like black leggings, ballet flats, a fabulous slouchy bag and…without which the look isn’t possible…a soft boyfriend cardigan showing just enough shape to make an admirer’s gaze linger. Hair in a messy ponytail with a simple, bright lip. Very French, non? The grownup ballerina! So casual, comfortable, chic. Perfect for walking for miles. Just make sure the sweater covers your bum.

The boyfriend cardigan is hardly boyish at all. In fact for some of you dear readers it is a girlfriend cardigan. They are easy to find - inspired, I got my teal one that very day from Banana Republic. You can spend a lot or a little. But wouldn’t you rather have a deep love affair with cashmere than a meaningless fling with acrylic?


Photo: Modern Amusement at www.Tobi.com