Cardigan Empire

Salt Lake City Fashion Stylist

Fitting Room Friday: What Goes With This? Tie Neck Blouse

Farmer Jo queried: 
“I am a middle figure, and nursing (so bigger on top). I have only worn it with skinny jeans, but need to make it work appropriate. Belting doesn’t really work with my post partum soft center. I am actually not even sure if it is the right top for me, I just love the print! , I am an elementary teacher if that helps with styling, nothing too tight or short. :)And washable.”

 Cardigan Empire Answered:
Farmer Jo, the Loosened Shelby Blouse is ideal for a soft delicious center.  And speaking as a fellow lactator with the same blouse in two colors, it’s also nursing friendly.  Educating it for work is actually quite elementary.  First add a layer.  A loosely structured cropped pullover will multiply polish without dividing middle squishies. Second, subtract your skinny jeans for skinny chinos or cords.
For further diversity, structure your whole torso with a neat little blazer, keep the look approachable with clean flat fronted bermudas.

If you’re feeling fancy, you can introduce this little number to a pencil skirt.  Lower figures and hourglass types may tuck in, but those who want less definition around the waistline may leave the finished hem undone.
Still wondering “What Goes with Your This?”, for 25% off. Enter coupon code GOES25
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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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