“The pea coat originated as a cold weather uniform in many European navies, most notably the British and the Dutch during the 18th century. The term “pea coat” comes from the Dutch word pij, which is a type of cloth commonly used in the production of the coat. The typical pea coat is a short double-breasted jacket made of coarse wool. It is normally navy blue or black in colour. Three to six buttons often made of wood or brass adorn the front and they are sometimes inscribed with anchors or other naval insignia. Though the uniform originated in Europe, by the early 20th century it became part of the United States navy’s official dress as well.” link@soko.com

“The accepted story of the cardigan sweater begins as far back as the mid 1800′s during the Crimean War. James Thomas Brudenell was the 7th Earl of Cardigan – and he’s who the sweater was named after. This British military commander served in this war and thus began the wearing of the cardigan sweater in popular culture. But the cardigan sweater became very popular in the 17th century with the French and in the British Isles with the fisherman of the times. These sweaters proved to be invaluable on the cold seas. Once fashioned with harder materials like wool, this one piece sweater generally has buttons or other fastening pieces in the front.” Cardigan@articleco.com