The Cricket Sweater: Preppy Heritage Revisited

March 19, 2025 Read time 2

A new piece this season, our cricket sweater is a true classic of men's clothing. Crafted from 100% cotton, it incorporates the iconic sweater's signature style with a modern, streamlined approach. With its distinctive V-neck and contrasting details, it stands out as a statement piece that's as elegant as it is versatile.

The cricket sweater, also known as a player's sweater, originated in 19th-century sports locker rooms, primarily in England. Originally designed for cricket players, it protected them from the cold while still allowing for greater freedom of movement. This garment quickly gained popularity beyond the field thanks to its thick, durable knit, ideal for enduring long hours of outdoor play while ensuring optimal comfort. Traditionally white, the cricket sweater reflected light and provided a certain coolness, while protecting players from the heat of the sun, faithful to the color of cricket playing outfits.

Its recognizable aesthetic relies on a cable knit, a deep V-neck, and contrasting striped trims, often in the colors of sports teams or institutions. These distinctive details have facilitated its adoption in academic and sporting circles, particularly in American universities and English clubs, where it has established itself as an emblem of preppy style.

Today, the cricket sweater embodies timeless elegance. It spans the decades without losing its charm, oscillating between sporting heritage and relaxed sophistication. Worn over a shirt for a confident preppy look or simply over a T-shirt for a more modern touch, it remains a versatile piece that reflects a certain art of living.

At Hast, the cricket sweater retains its heritage while adapting to contemporary expectations. Knitted in 100% cotton, it offers a soft and breathable knit, ideal for mid-season wear. Softer than wool styles, it's easy to wear every day while maintaining its elegant look. With its neat cut and precise finishes, it stands out as a must-have piece, expertly revisited for understated, modern elegance.

Available in a luminous ecru shade and a delicate openwork knit, our cricket sweater elegantly reinterprets the codes of this menswear classic. The subtle contrast highlights its distinctive green-striped V-neck and its meticulous finishing, adding a refined touch to this timeless piece. The collar benefits from a "fully fashioned" construction: each stitch is carefully re-knitted rather than sewn, thus offering an impeccable finish, greater elegance and better durability over time.

A true asset of the men's wardrobe, the Hast cricket sweater lends itself to many combinations. For a sophisticated look, it can be worn with an Oxford shirt and a club tie, complemented by a structured blazer or a balmacaan coat. For a more casual approach, it pairs perfectly with green chinos or wool trousers . You can also wear it with a t-shirt underneath for a more relaxed look, without losing elegance.