The Separate Split

Earlier this week I shared with you my maiden voyage in styling a cardigan.  I decided to go all out and purchase the twinset (coordinating shell).  I find that most closets, including my own, are full of separates but I believe it's essential to incorporate matching sets when possible.  It's an effortless way of looking put together.  And if you're afraid of looking too monochromatic a printed scarf, skirt or statement necklace are great ways to add some interest.

While I respect and embrace matchy matchey ensembles I feel that it's important to take advantage of their styling options and utilize them separately.  Optimizing the functionality of your wardrobe is key.  I find that you'd be surprised at just how many looks you can create with a moderate amount of pieces.  Ask yourself, what good is a piece that can only be worn in a single capacity?

I showed you how I styled the cardigan earlier this week.  Today I'm taking this amber shell and pairing it with ivory trousers for a lighter brighter palette and a printed scarf to break up the color block. I love the mix of light and rich neutrals - goes to show you don't have to have bright colors to make a statement.

I'm going to assume none of you are new to these pieces but if you're looking to add to your closet I do recommend this twinset as it's constructed out of light weight wool which is durable and resistant to stretching and fading.

 I must admit I'm pretty enthused about this new-to-me cardigan thing.  My gal pals shake their heads as it's an over worn piece for just about all women and as a collector of classics it's just surprising I haven't taken part.

I have brunch with the gals tomorrow and I'm thinking of wearing the coordinating twin set with a pair of jeans and bright red flats for a pop of color.  Swapping out your trousers or skirts for jeans and flats is the perfect way to transition a week day look to the weekend and still look polished while being comfortable.

Shell: J Crew || Coordinating Cardigan: J Crew || Trousers: Similar ||

Scarf: Ann Taylor || Pumps: Tory Burch || Handbag: Prada || 

Dress Beautifully in Separates 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Bourbon & Blush

This is a first.  I have a twin set in my closet.  With my affinity for classic and timeless pieces  it's ironic, even to myself, that I don't own such a fundamental garment as a cardigan.  I've always chosen blazers over cardigans.  I prefer the structure, durability, and sophistication that a jacket brings.
And now I'm enjoying the softness and movement of the warm wool snug against my skin.

Tip:  To avoid the cardigan cons of stretching, and piling choose a set made of wool or a silk blend.  And invest in this Gleener Ultimate Fuzz Remover to gently remove those pesky fuzz balls. 

I'm guilty of stereotyping cardigans as mature, and frumpy.  The key to avoiding the librarian/granny look is styling. Pair with modern, edgy and streamlined pieces. Avoid old school traditions such as pearls, broaches and overly conservative garments.  Also, split the shell and cardigan up.  They're both layering pieces and can lead to countless outfit options.

Another thing that drew me to this set was the rich amber color.  It's a unique neutral.  I have all the other neutrals covered in my blazers and suiting garments so this addition adds a particular uniqueness.  At first glance it reminded me of a lowball glass of bourbon, something Mr would drink on a date night (I see things that remind me of him constantly, sometimes it in the funniest of ways - there's clearly no limit to how much I miss him).

I paired the cardigan over a soft blush sheath dress and added some contrast with black pumps & handbag. I also accessorized with a modern gold hoop eating.  This color combination is sharp, unexpected and sure to impress at the office.
It's a classic look but I surely don't look mature or frumpy.

If you haven't added this year's Pantone color 'Rose Quartz' to your wardrobe this dress is a pretty piece to start with.  The piping detail streamlines your shape and highlights the waist.
Note:  I purchased in petite, it's designed in a longer length.

Later this week I'll share with you how I styled the matching shell :)

Cardigan: J Crew || Blush Sheath Dress: Ann Taylor || Pumps: Nine West ||

Handbag: Prada || Earrings: Similar || 

Dress Beautifully in Bourbon & Blush

XOXO Sarah Louise