From fishermen's garb to status symbol: the evolution of the sweater

"Judging from what we saw during the recent holidays, the once-ubiquitous ugly Christmas sweater trend has subsided somewhat. The Bridget Jones cinematic saga played an important role in spreading the look worldwide, but it has proven to be, thankfully, short-lived. What was once sold as the umpteenth ironic interpretation of an everyday object may now be read as an example of the absurd lengths to which the uncritical embrace of market dynamics can extend."

"In contrast, the tracksuit, once the epitome of working-class chav aesthetic, has taken centerstage after the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, though it is worth noting that his country's politicians often sport athletic wear during their moments of triumph and in the midst of electoral campaigns (a style employed even by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado). In recent times, the pendulum has swung back to the wool sweater, a practical garment weighted with history and cultural connotations that has never lost its well-established dignity."

"In a man's closet, a good sweater or better yet, several is essential. And as in all aspects of life, when it comes to sweaters, quality, good design, and the combination of respect for and challenge to tradition are key. In Europe, a sweater is often referred to as jersey, a word that nods to its knitted fabric as well as it being an item of clothing that typically features sleeves, made from wool or other materials."

Ugly Christmas sweater popularity declined after peaking during the holidays, despite global spread aided by the Bridget Jones films. The ironic, mass-market embrace of the sweater now reads as an example of market excess. The tracksuit, once associated with working-class chav culture, surged in visibility following the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, reflecting politicians' use of athletic wear during triumphs and campaigns. The fashion pendulum has swung back toward wool sweaters, prized for practicality, history, and dignity. A man should own at least one quality sweater, with emphasis on craftsmanship, design, and a balance between respect for and challenge to tradition. In Europe 'jersey' denotes such knitted garments originating from the island of Jersey.

Read at english.elpais.com