This time I'll be sweater

MANILA, Philippines - It is said that the cardigan, the classic button-down sweater, which is very much associated with preppies, was named after James Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan, a British military commander. During the Crimean War, Brudenell and his officers wore a “sweater coat” that inspired the cardigan.

By the 1900s, the V-neck “letter” cardigan was a hit in campus fashion. The look was smart but casual and generally styled with loafers, slacks, and white shirts. The legendary French designer Coco Chanel later gave it glam in the 1920s with her unstructured, collarless braid trimmed cardigan jacket.

Cardigans have evolved since then and have become one of the most functional and versatile pieces in fashion. Its lightweight material makes it handy, it can be worn dressed up or dressed down, and its styles fit and flatter all body types.

And with lightweight cardigans ruling today’s runways — Christopher Kane’s bright neon cardigans, Zac Posen’s fancy cardigans in black and rich hues, Alberta Ferreti’s boho chic and ladylike versions, L’Wren Scott’s mix of fabrics, layering, colors, and eye-catching embellishments — can Surplus, the store where you can get fashion for less, be far behind?

With Surplus’s new cardigan collection, the art of layering will keep us cool in the cold season. There are classic button-down cardies, sophisticated shawl collar versions, cool cropped styles, all-time favorite argyles, and trendy zip-ups and hoodies.

And here’s another cool offer from Surplus: rechargeable flashlights for only P129.75 or three for P100 until Dec. 31.

The cardigan collection is available at Surplus stores located at most SM Supermalls. Surplus is also on Facebook — simply search and visit Surplus Shop on Facebook.