Akimbo Faded Heather Grey Virgin Wool Cardigan-1970s: what you need to know

We created this cardigan because we felt that we wanted something that was soft and broken in, so that we could throw it quickly over our shoulders, and that we would like to have something that felt like a good vintage find. For us, it’s the Akimbo Faded Heather Grey Virgin Wool Cardigan-1970s. A knit layer that can be worn over a t-shirt, under a coat or by itself when the weather won’t cooperate.

Before moving on to the details, a word of caution about “virgin wool.”

It simply means that the wool has not been recycled or reprocessed prior to use. Fibers are longer and sturdier, typically retaining shape longer. This is important for a cardigan you’ll be wearing for the whole year and not just for one season.

The Knit is what the Knit really feels like.

Not a bulky, hard wool. The heather grey has this depth to it, it is not flat and shiny. The “faded” section is an intentional part. It’s like a cardigan that has been worn for a while, just a good while. Simple buttons. The cut is loose yet not too loose!

If you are a previous customer, you understand that we don’t over-brand. Same here. This is an item that you keep in your rotation but do not use frequently.

Wearing it Without Overthinking

This cardigan can be worn with your favorite Akimbo Jeans and your favorite Akimbo T Shirt! That’s it. In colder weather, replace the tee with an Akimbo Hoodie, and unbutton the cardigan. The added layers create texture without bulk and the wool creates the layered look.

Want something cleaner? Cover and wear underneath an overcoat. The cardigan is similar to a sweater, but as it has a button front, you have some choices when inside. Combine with the Akimbo Sweatpants in grey or black for a full tonal vibe. Seems counterintuitive on paper but the relaxed shapes match. If you’re looking for more warmth without the hood, pair the Akimbo Sweater with the jacket.

Yes, it’s Akimbo Club stamped. Small. Inside the collar.

Washing – read this part, Drying – read this part

Wool is easy to work with if you don’t treat it like cotton.

Washing

Hand or wool wash in cold water. Wool shrinks and forms into a felt when heated and agitated. Use a detergent designed for wool; regular detergent will remove the natural oils that keep the wool soft. Don’t use fabric softener. It adds a coat to the wool and makes the heather finish fade with time.

Drying

Never wring out. Gently squeeze water out or roll in a towel. Afterwards, spread it out to dry. Stretching wool wool will cause it to lose its shape. Avoid direct heat, no radiators or direct sunlight. A regular-sized room with a drying rack will do.

Pilling

When wool clumps together under the arms or in areas where a bag rubs, it’s normal and the small pills are not a cause for concern. Don’t pull them. Combed with a fabric comb or a small shaver for knits. It takes 2 minutes and the cardigan is as good as new.

What do people really ask? Answer their questions with these FAQs.

Is virgin wool itchy?

Not this one. The fibers are thin enough that it can be worn over a t-shirt. If sensitive, wear with long sleeves under for the first several wears.

Will it shrink?

Cold water wash and flat dry—no. Hot water and dry—no. Treat it well and the fit is maintained.

May I wash it in the washing machine?

Only use wool or delicate cycle and cold water on a mesh bag. If you have time, hand washing is safer.

If I don’t like the idea of street wear, what pairs it with?

Put over a basic shirt and chinos. The heather grey takes care of the task. It should not be “styled.

Will it be cold in the winter?

Yes, it is a mid-layer. It’s not a coat. It provides true warmth under a jacket without sweating inside.

Final Word

We began crafting things we wanted to wear at Akimbo. This cardigan follows in a similar fashion. It’s not trying to make a statement. It’s a wool piece that can pair with the Akimbo Hoodie, Akimbo Jeans and anything else in your wardrobe. With proper care it will be the last thing you think of when you need to think about what to wear.