10 April 2009 , originally uploaded by academichic.
Sources:
- Black blouse – Calvin Klein
- Peal necklace – J.Jill
- Blue cardi – H&M
- Blue/grey trouser – Banana Republic
- Black ribbon – origin long forgotten
- Red pointy pumps – Matisse, thrifted
Endnotes:
Ever since I discovered the benefits of belting my tops (to create a waistline), I have gone a bit belt-crazy. I not only use actual belts, but scarves, ribbons, ties, and any long-enough pieces of fabric that can be repurposed to wrap around my torso and give me that much desired waistline.
Today I am using a black ribbon, the origin of which is long forgotten, to cinch this cardi and blouse combo. I like the added flair of the ribbon and bow, like it’s saying to my students: ‘Look, I’m this university’s gift to you’ – which is how I’m certain they all think of me, right?
Bow detail, originally uploaded by academichic.
I also picked up this little trick from E.; belting a cardi without buttoning it. Letting the two sides hang down on their own breaks my midsection into several slimmer vertical sections; the benefits of which are apparent. (This trick also comes in handy when a cardi no longer fits you and you want to avoid that buttons-ready-to-pop look when pulling the two sides together!) S.
Shoes!, originally uploaded by academichic.
I’ve gone batty for belts, too! My collection is just overflowing … love the beribonned look, lady.
I love the bow!
I love the idea of the bow instead of the belt. I tried to belt my outfit today but it just wasn’t working so I un-tucked. A wide ribbon likely would have worked better. I’m looking forward to wearing this skirt again but differently!
S- I’m loving your apple shaped tips this week! I never really realized the power of the belt before- I was always concerned it added too much bulk. I even got brave and tried out the OVER the cardigan belt today- before the week I would have definitely belted underneath. Check it out if you want: http://www.flickr.com/photos/thegreenviolet/3429832702/
and thanks for the tips!
I love the feminine touch that the bow adds, and the pop of color coming from the shoes!
I’m crazy for a cardi and a belted waist too. I couldn’t possibly love this more, S!
You look great! It’s interesting that you mention that you can use a cardi like this when it is too small. That’s what is exactly the problem about this look on me, although it looks great on you. For instance, these look great on you ladies:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/academichic/3423587613/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/academichic/3418157417/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/academichic/3411491761/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/academichic/3410197485/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/academichic/3408637549/
but I tried a similar look twice this week and my husband said it looked like my sweater was too small. What’s the trick?