Another Classic for Father’s Day

Some garments are just perfect for signaling that warm weather is here, or at least coming shortly. One of these garments is the cotton v-neck tennis sweater. If you’re looking for a nice Father’s Day gift or you guys are simply looking for a great basic garment to add to your wardrobe, check out a cotton v-neck tennis sweater.

Despite its name, your dear old dad doesn’t have to actually play tennis to wear this classic style, but it can’t hurt. Sometimes I like to do a little research when an article of clothing has an interesting name or suggests an activity in hopes there is some fun background information on the item, like floral tea-length dresses or black leather opera gloves.

While I was searching for information, I discovered the tennis sweater’s origin was more likely to have been the ski slopes rather than the tennis court. The Prince of Wales adopted the solid v-neck sweater with minimal decoration at the neck instead of a jacket when he teed off in the fall. This v-neck sweater was then adopted by young men of country clubs, or grass court clubs, as they were known then, instead of wearing a tailored blazer or long coat. At one point, the now named tennis sweater was referred to as a cricket sweater in honor of the game cricket. The cricket or tennis sweater gained most of its popularity over the ’50s and ’60s, and it’s most remembered for that era.

You can read more here if you’re dying of curiosity.

The tennis sweater is a great piece to add to a man of any age’s wardrobe, tennis buff or not, because it signifies warm weather and it’s a perfect piece to work the retro fashion trend. This sweater style can be considered a classic, and it’s considered a staple in lots of men’s wardrobes, even when they are simply handed down to sons and brothers.

Most true tennis sweater aficionados claim a cream or white v-neck cable with navy and burgundy trim at the neck is the true original version, as made by Lacoste, but you can find this sweater or versions in other colors like navy, light blue, or yellow. Lots of designers and labels, including Izod, are offering their own versions, but I suggest you check out golden oldies that have staying power, like Brooks Brothers.