Cardigan Empire

Salt Lake City Fashion Stylist

Children’s Fashion: Frosty Darling


Over the years, one thing Mr. Bagley & I have learned about small humans, is that their level of attraction is directly proportional to their level of entertainment. Unfortunately, whenever little ones come to visit the Bagley Residence, the common refrain is either a flat “There’s nothing to do.” or a flabbergasted “Where are all your toys?”


While traveling in Utah this summer, I found a solution: Frosty Darling

Located in downtown Salt Lake in the East Broadway Shopping District, the coin-operated horse ride greets you at the door. We didn’t even have to feed it change and my toddling nephew was enchanted. Inside the foyer the warble of Tammy Wynette resonated from the spinning pin on vinyl in the corner.

From there the squealing and overuse of the adjective “cute” begins. If given time I would also use the words, “charming” “retro” “western-pop” “fresh.” For example, “Don’t you think that stuffed squirrel exudes just the right amount of western pop while at the same time alluding to a delightfully strange Warhol aesthetic?”


The counter is surrounded with vintage candies: Bubblegum cigars, candy lipstick, whistle pops. Each little cranny cradles a unique, locally made craft: onesies, stuffed donkeys, baby aprons, pillows . . . all get the handmade treatment. I walked away with a petite collection of handmade finger puppets for the godkids which I garnished liberally with state-fair worthy candies.

 Get your fill of delights, Salt Lakian or no, by visiting the Etsy Shop.


Today’s way* to enter to win the Lia Molly sweater, post a comment responding to this question:

“What is your child’s favorite accessory (aka beloved toy)?”

*You’ll have one more chance to enter next week. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, September 1st.

PS: This is yours in devotion and Frosty Darling owner Gentry Blackburn. Isn’t she aces? Don’t be jealous but I got to go to dinner with her at the Vertical Diner and eat vegan fried chicken.

Feed me fashionably fresh

Children’s Fashion: Lola Et Moi


Mr. & Mrs. Cardigan Empire aspire to expand their family. While we don’t know exactly how they will come to us, what they will look like, or when they will arrive, we do have a pretty good idea what they will wear. And I share these recommendations with you.


My first petite fashion recommendation: Lola Et Moi

Warning – this week’s recommendations may or may not be practical. For, I dress only imaginary children. Imaginary children tend not to grow very fast or soil their personal effects. So before you leave me a comment about the absurdity of these suggestions, remember you may hurt my imaginary children’s feelings.

Now back to Lola Et Moi, their pretties get back to the “colorful, sparkling, world of childhood.” The details on each item is exquisite, most do not require dry cleaning, the collections are delightfully easy to mix and match, and each item may be the most unique item in your entire toddler’s closet.

Today’s way* to enter to win the Lia Molly sweater, post a comment responding to this question:

“Are children the ultimate accessory? Do you prefer carrying your toddler to your handbag?”

Speaking of: Suri Cruise, wearing your sweater:



*You’ll have two additional opportunities to enter to win the giveaway, meaning enter each of three times for the greatest chance of winning.

Feed me fashionably fresh