History and Style Guide to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Sweaters

The History of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Sweaters

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the first African American intercollegiate fraternity. It was founded on December 4, 1906 at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York by seven visionary students. These young men recognized the need for a strong bond of brotherhood among African descendants in this country. The founders of Alpha Phi Alpha were commonly referred to as the "Seven Jewels".

From the beginning, the fraternity members wore identifying symbols and colors to represent their brotherhood. The fraternity's official colors became black and old gold. Black represented the people of African descent and old gold represented the value members placed on Alpha Phi Alpha brotherhood.

The fraternity pin, featuring a sphinxhead, diamonds, hands, helmet, and shield was also adopted early on as an insignia of membership. In addition to the pin, fraternity sweaters soon became a way for the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha to proudly display their affiliation.

The Purpose of Fraternity Sweaters

Fraternity sweaters, also known as frat sweaters, serve multiple purposes. First, they clearly identify the wearer as a member of a specific fraternity or sorority. The knitted greek letters prominently displayed on the sweater ensure instant recognition by fellow members. This allows brothers to easily spot each other on campus or out in public.

In addition, fraternity sweaters foster a sense of community and brotherhood among members. Wearing the letters links them to the generations of brothers who came before them. The sweaters are also comfortable and useful as cool weather approaches. They provide warmth during chilly lectures or fall football games.

Early Alpha Phi Alpha Sweater Designs

Very early Alpha Phi Alpha sweaters were hand-knit pullovers featuring a simple greek letter design on the front. As manufacturing capabilities expanded, more intricate sweater options became available. New jacquard knitting machines allowed for multi-color patterned fabrics.

By the 1930s and 1940s, popular Alpha Phi Alpha sweater styles included cardigans, pullovers, sleeveless slipovers, and even sweater vests. Some designs displayed a large single front greek letter, while others arranged all three letters―Alpha, Phi, and Alpha―on the front. The fraternity colors of black and old gold were regularly incorporated into the sweater patterns.

Modern Alpha Phi Alpha Sweaters

Today's Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity sweaters are more stylish than ever before. While many traditional cardigan and pullover styles remain, new designs continue to emerge as well. Some modern Alpha Phi Alpha sweaters feature:

• Leather sleeves
• Asymmetrical patterns
• Detachable hoods
• Front pockets
• Two-tone color blocking

In addition to knit fabrics, Alpha Phi Alpha sweaters now come in cotton, fleece, and performance materials. Fitted athletic cuts allow for versatile wear from the gym to the classroom.

Customizing Alpha Phi Alpha Sweaters

Some Alpha brothers choose to customize their fraternity sweaters for a unique look. Adding embroidered names, years, phrases, or images personalizes a sweater. Popular embroidered additions include:

• First name or nickname
• Pledge class year
• College name
• Favorite motto or saying
• Memorable date like an initiation or founding
• Portrait of fraternity founder

Others modify their Alpha sweater by affixing decorative patches. These can represent chapter leadership positions, college logos, conference attendance, or personal interests.

How to Style an Alpha Phi Alpha Sweater

Alpha Phi Alpha sweaters offer great versatility for casual and formal ensembles alike. Here are some tips for stylishly incorporating an Alpha sweater into your wardrobe:

Casual Wear

For casual settings, pair your frat sweater with jeans or khakis. Add a collared shirt underneath or rock it over a t-shirt. Finish the look with casual footwear like sneakers or boots.

Business Casual

For a business casual office look, wear your sweater with belted slacks and a button-down shirt. Loafers or oxfords complete this professional style.

Formal Wear

Alpha Phi Alpha sweaters can also be worn formally by layering them under a blazer or suit jacket. This polished look works well for chapter meetings, banquets, ceremonies, and more.

Layering

Layer your fraternity sweater over a hoodie on colder days or underneath a waterproof jacket when it rains. Experiment with different inner and outer layers to maximize comfort and style.

Gift Ideas for Alpha Phi Alpha Brothers

Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity sweaters make fantastic gifts, whether for initiation, Founders Day, graduation, or holidays. Here are some Alpha sweater gift ideas to consider:

• Custom sweater with brother's name or pledge year
• Vintage cardigan or pullover style
• Luxury cashmere sweater with greek letters
• Performance sweater for working out
• Sweater vest with embroidered fraternity symbols
• Two-tone color blocked sweater
• Oversized sweater for a comfortable fit

A sweater is sure to be appreciated by any member of Alpha Phi Alpha. It combines style, comfort, and displays pride in the fraternity with class. Following fraternity tradition, the gift of an Alpha sweater will be cherished for years to come.

FAQs

When did Alpha Phi Alpha members first start wearing fraternity sweaters?

Fraternity sweaters became popular among Alpha Phi Alpha brothers in the early 1900s. Some of the earliest sweaters were hand-knit pullovers featuring simple greek letter designs.

Where can I buy an officially licensed Alpha Phi Alpha sweater?

Official Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity sweaters are available from licensed vendors like Greek Gear and Something Greek. Many chapters and alumni associations also sell sweaters directly.

What is the best way to customize an Alpha sweater?

Some popular ways to customize Alpha Phi Alpha sweaters include adding embroidered names, pledge class years, or meaningful phrases. Sewing on patches representing colleges or leadership roles is another great option.

Can I wear my frat sweater with formal wear?

Yes, Alpha Phi Alpha sweaters can definitely be worn formally. Simply layer your sweater underneath a blazer or suit jacket for a polished, stylish look.

What makes a good Alpha Phi Alpha sweater gift?

Consider a custom sweater with the recipient's name or pledge year, a vintage-inspired cardigan, or a two-tone color blocked style. Any Alpha sweater gift will be meaningful and cherished.