Cardigan Empire

Salt Lake City Fashion Stylist

What Goes With This: Lady Pink Skirt, Soft Structured Dress, Bow Tied Moccasins

Rachel queried:
“I bought these shoes back in April for a ridiculous steal (Originally $98 on sale for about $12?!?).  I love them and they are SO comfortable but I can’t figure out how to style them.  They have a unique look, a cross between girly with the bow and silver and almost Indian (?) with the fridge.  I think they could look cute poking out of the bottom of a nice pair of jeans, but I spend 85% of my time in an office which requires business casual.  I worry that they’re a bit too heavy to wear with a skirt?  Or is it possible?  Should I wait until winter so I can pair them with tights?  Help! (PS, my retailer of choice is Anthropologie).”

Cardigan Empire Answered:

Fellow Rachel, the trick to pairing a statement shoe is balance.  If the shoe is heavy, the dress needs to be light.  If the shoe is flat, the hemline needs to be short, or long,  (pick the option you prefer for a longer silhouette).  And since you shoes speak romantic-bohemian hybrid continue the eclectic dialect throughout the ensemble.

Lindsay queried:
“I have a baby pink, straight knee-length pencil skirt from GAP with white polka dots on it.  I have had it for years and never worn it because it’s too little-girl-girly. 

It is similar to this, only with no belt and smaller polka dots.”

Cardigan Empire Answered:

Big Girl Lindsay, to avoid a fairy princess syndrome, ground you bubblegum hue with a slouchy neutral, a men’s styled shoe, and indelicate accessories.  Let the skirt be the flirt and the rest her supporting suitors.

Mrs. Jack queried:
“I fell in love with the colors of the Soft Structured Dress, so I splurged on it, but I never wear it because I am not sure what to wear! I might have to sell it on eBay!“

Cardigan Empire Answered:

Lady Jack, pray never sell the Soft Structured Dress without at least an attempted wear.  The rest of us are already scrambling to pick up our own very similar Gathered Hemlock version.  When intimidated by an ensemble, I always recommend neutralizing the threat.  For you I recommend taupe and gold.  Allow your bold pattern to shine without chromatic competition.  Not that your accoutrements need be bland, feel free to speak in shape, shine, and texture.

The Grand Prize “What Goes with This?” answer to come.  Complimentary submissions are officially closed.
But you can still find out “What Goes with Your This?”, for 25% off. Enter coupon code GOES25

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What Goes With This: Mod Dress

Mikel queried:
“I bought this dress around Christmas -my husband was in love!- and haven’t been able to style it quite to my liking! I have to have my shoulders covered (religious reasons) but I don’t want to ruin the lovely silhouette with a frumpy cardigan! Please help! Both my husband and I would be very grateful!”

Cardigan Empire Answered:

Going under rather than over will ensure you don’t lose your silhouette. Pair it with a bright blouse and keep the collar high (ie clasp every last button). Beyond prim, the high positioned hue will provide maximum compliment to your sweet complexion.

Feather light and supple, a long sleeve will feel simple yet deliberate. And don’t be shy of color, pattern, or texture.

Cropped and boxy may not seem ladylike, but the volume will actually allow your waist to remain visible. Look for capes with texture, wools, houndstooth, everything nubby and opulent.

More “What Goes with This?” answers to come.
In the meantime, find out “What Goes with Your This?”, for 25% off. Enter coupon code GOES25

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