The Endorsement: J. Crew’s Merino Wool V-Neck Sweater

Hey Gents —

If there’s one thing you’ll treat yourself to this holiday season, let it be a merino wool v-neck sweater from J. Crew. It could possibly be the most versatile piece you will ever own.

The effortless type of gentleman is looking for variety in what he wears, but with minimal fuss on his part — he’d rather spend that extra time saving the world! Well, this merino sweater fits the bill. One can dress it up under a sport coat, or throw it on with a favorite pair of jeans; this piece knows how to fit in. It’s thin enough to layer over an oxford cloth button-down shirt, yet keeps you remarkably warm relative to its thickness. I can’t neglect to mention it’s durability, resistance to pilling*, softness, and ability to maintain its shape despite numerous wears.

These retail for $59.50 at jcrew.com and are available in numerous seasonal colors. Honestly, I’d grab one in every color; I guarantee you’ll get plenty of use out of them. I own seven and they consistently cycle through my everyday wardrobe in one way or another; so much so that it almost becomes like a uniform. Nothing wrong with a little predictability so long as you look good, right?

Fun little tidbit of knowledge for your brain to ponder

The fleece shorn from a merino sheep is “naturally waterproofed by lanolin—an oil that serves as a moisturizer and acts as waterproofing for the animal.”** This will come in handy if someone manages to spill a cocktail on you at your next (crowded) holiday party.

* What causes pilling? Pilling is caused by the abrasion of short fibers into small balls on the surface of the fabric. Some pilling will occur in most new sweaters, especially those worn under other garments. But the problem will not persist in a good garment after the first cleaning. (http://www.bensilver.com/style04/about_cashmere.htm#eight)

** http://www.catalogs.com/info/clothing/what-is-merino-wool.html