Sweater Vest are the Best..A Friday Rant

Yeah, I wear sweater vests. As a teacher, I have made it part of my uniform. SOME of my students are understanding and accepting...others not so much.

The sweater vest is an article of clothing that keeps the core of the person warm, while offering mobility of the arms. It has transcended the ages. What more can one ask? It “goes” with anything. It can be worn with a tie. It can be worn with jeans. It can be emblazoned with a team logo. It makes a statement of confidence.

Respect the sweater vest. Why? Simply stated, it is the perfect combination of sweater…and vest.

I, who represent sweater vest connoisseurs, would like to acknowledge the many famous and well-respected men who have proudly worn the sweater vest, including Coach Jim Tressel. We who are in the know will continue to sport this utilitarian, yet stylish, piece of clothing.

In fact, many well known manufacturers of men’s fine clothing continue to create modern versions of the sweater vest including: Ralph Lauren, Express for Men, L.L. Bean, Banana Republic, Guess, and J. Crew. As stated above, many famous and well respected men of real-life and fiction have worn the sweater vest making it a cultural icon. These confident gentlemen include: Mr. Brad Pitt, Mr. Tiger Woods, Mr. Sean Connery, Mr. Kanye West, and Mr. Harry Potter (to whom a club here at Northview dedicates itself, nay, worships). Accordingly, one must not forget the many distinguished gentlemen teachers who walk the hallowed halls of my high school, including the principal, and many other schools across the country. These wearers of the vest of sweater are the role models for future generations. There are those students who respect this sacred clothing, yet do not don this metaphorical armor because they fear the ridicule by those who are ignorant of the power—and yes, these students, the believers, ARE out there. Have no more fear!

So, for the well-being of the community, and even the world, I say we gather together to celebrate THE sweater vest. I propose that Thursdays should be Sweater Vest Thursdays. A day SHOULD be dedicated to the sweater vest. I propose that students, parents, teachers, administrators, and everyone who understands band together to join the ranks of the confident, the free (free-armed at least). Join those who choose to remain stylish based on the past, continue to be stylish in the present, and will remain stylish in the future.

For all who read this: please—respect the sweater vest.