A cardigan should be a closet staple for everyone no matter your age, gender, or sense of style. Oversized, classic, chunky or long, a cardigan looks great on any body type and can take your look from drab to fab in no time. While it may seem like an easy piece to style, there are some rules to follow to avoid looking frumpy or aged. Read on for my simple suggestions...
THE OVERSIZED CARDIGAN
Long, cozy cardigans will always dominate the fall and winter seasons, and they can be used to create an ultra-stylish appearance. The golden rule of wearing an oversized cardigan is to pair it with minimalist elements. Let your sweater do the talking! Alicia's classic black dress and perfectly proportioned cardigan are so chic for fall, while her booties are on trend without being too over-the-top.
PHOTO CREDIT: CHEETAH IS THE NEW BLACK
@ALICIAMLUND
1. GRAYSON Dress 2. ACNE STUDIOS Oversized Cardigan 3. ISABEL MARANT Cuff 4. MELISSA JOY Pearl Earrings 5. CORNELIA WEBB Ring 6. DELFINA DELETTREZ Pearl Ring 7. MEL BOTERI High Gloss, Black Lizard-Print Leather Watson Tote 8. MARC FISHER Boots
THE STATEMENT CARDIGAN
A refined and beautifully cut fall cardigan is a style statement in itself and needs no further explanation. The sleeves and unique silhouette on the backside of Lauren’s sweater are so chic that I can’t wait to get my hands on one of my own! This piece would be fabulous over a fitted dress or skirt with over-the-knee boots as well.
PHOTO CREDIT: LIFE TO LAUREN
@LIFETOLAUREN
1. CURRENT/ELLIOTT Skinny Jeans 2. EQUIPMENT Camisole 3. KENDRA SCOTT Stacking Rings 4. OSCAR DE LA RENTA Tassel Drop Earrings 5. THE ROW Cardigan 6. MEL BOTERI Black Saffiano Leather Watson Tote 7. VINCE Block Heel Booties
THE COLORFUL CARDIGAN
Bright hues for fall can seem a bit tricky, but outerwear is the perfect way to layer on some color during the colder months. Try a jeweled-tone piece to really stand out, but I suggest you pair it with a monochromatic outfit or stick with black and white. I would leave color blocking a cardigan for the pros as this can often leave you looking boxy. I am obsessed with Jessie's whole look below, but above all else her tailored cardigan is the perfect substitute for your basic blazer.
PHOTO CREDIT: SEAMS FOR A DESIRE
@JESSIEKASS
1. ANN DEMEULEMEESTER Cotton Shirt 2. HANRO Bra 3. EDUN Cardigan 4. THE ROW Mini Skirt 5. PANACEA Drop Earrings 6. MEL BOTERI Black Saffiano Leather Emmy Convertible Clutch 7. JUST CAVALLI Pumps
THE MIDI CARDIGAN
A midi cardigan should technically hit between the knees and ankles, and with this length it is vital to get your proportions underneath just right! The easiest way to style this piece is with fitted pants that hit at the ankle, and I would suggest you stay away from midis that are a size too large. Click through to see how Jane nailed this layered look. I especially love how she suggests tying the cardigan around your waist to better prepare for varying temps.
PHOTO CREDIT: FIT FAB FUN MOM
@FITFABFUNMOM
1. SI JAY Panel Skirt 2. JOSEPH Cashmere Sweater 3. JOSEPH Draped Cardigan 4. BAUBLEBAR Drop Earrings 5. BAUBLEBAR Collar Necklace 6. MEL BOTERI Black Saffiano Leather Watson Mini Clutch Cross-Body Bag 7. HUSH PUPPIES Booties
THE PRINTED CARDIGAN
This might be my favorite version yet! If you are worried about looking as though you’ve gone shopping in your grandmother’s closet, a bold print will help you update your outfit and keep it modern. Cathy gives the classic cardi a major upgrade in leopard mixed with funky prints and textures.
PHOTO CREDIT: THE MIDDLE PAGE
@THEMIDDLEPAGEBLOG
1. J.W.ANDERSON Print T-shirt 2. VALENTINO Pleated Cracked-leather Skirt 3. BOUTIQUE MOSCHINO Animal Print Cardigan 4. O BY OSCAR DE LA RENTA Sunglasses 5. KATE SPADE Stud Earrings 6. ARGENTO VIVIO Name Necklace 7. MEL BOTERI Kat Tote in Black Pebbled Leather 8. WANDERLUST AND CO Opal Ring 9. BP. Booties
The cardigan is going through a major fashion renovation, and I am loving every second of it! I hope this week’s style guide has inspired you to revamp the cardigans in your wardrobe.
Check back in with me next week. I will be discussing my all-time favorite piece for fall: BOOTS :)
P.S. Finding yourself in a style rut?! Freshen up your look with our Weekly Style Guide here >> http://melb.co/
