- Share This Post
- submit
- 6
-
Sparkle (0)
Looking for ways to make what you have in your closet work for you? I have one simple suggestion for you: get thee a good cardigan.
The right cardi can change your whole wardrobe. Seriously.
A cardigan is a simple wardrobe update -- you can find cardis in all sorts of materials, at all sorts of price points. Cardis are easily thrifted, too, and a vintage cardigan is a real find.
How do you make a great cardigan work with your current wardrobe? So easy.
The great thing about a cardigan is its versatility. Choose a color that will go with what you already have -- a bright shade if you're a neutrals girl, or a neutral if you're someone who already has a lot of color in your closet. Don't worry about what colors are in this season, or are coming up for the next; look instead for a color that will work for you. Trends are great but they're not the way to shop if you are looking for investment pieces.
Choose a shape that flatters your shape. Long cardigans are everywhere these days, and they are super versatile. The boyfriend cardi pictured here, from the Gap, is terrific because it can work with so many looks: pair it with jeans and a tee for a casual weekend look, or with a pencil skirt for the office. Wear it unbuttoned, or button up and add a skinny belt. Layer it over a tee or tank or button front shirt, or toss it over a slim dress. Gap boyfriend cardigan, $54.00. Available in five shades, in sizes XS to XXL.
A long cardigan is not the best choice for every figure, though -- if you carry most of your weight in your hips and thighs, opt for a cardi that hits at the high hip, to define your waist and draw the eye upward. The Gap has a shorter cardigan, also with a V-neck, in a more fitted silhouette. This shape is perfect for virtually everyone, and again, can be worn with virtually everything. Gap new V neck cardigan, $44.00. Available in 16 colors, in sizes XS to XXL.
If you only buy one new thing this season, think about a cardigan -- and then wear it with everything. My favorite use of a great cardi is to change up the look of a dress; a simple cotton cardigan makes an after-five dress appropriate for day, while an embellished cardi makes a day dress evening-ready. A the card-plus-dress look is classic and retro and edgy all at once.
Julie at I Heart Heels has tips on how to wear a cardigan; StyleBakery pulls together four cardigan-based outfits, for day, night, work, and weekend; and Sparkle Shelf specifically dissects the boyfriend cardigan.
