3 March 2010, originally uploaded by academichic.
Sources:
- Ruffled cardigan: Ann Taylor
- Leaf print top: H&M
- Trousers: Banana Republic
- Pumps: Madden Girl, via DSW
- Belt: thrifted
End Notes:
Like A., I was inspired by S.’s cardi pattern mixing and wanted to try some of my own. Unfortunately, I don’t actually own a patterned cardigan. (And I’m taking suggestions for one to add to my wardrobe this spring.)
I have, however, recently acquired this putty colored ruffle front cardigan from an Ann Taylor clearance rack. Ruffled and embellished cardigans remain popular for spring* and in some ways they can function much like a subdued pattern might, adding just a bit of visual interest and texture. So while it might be tempting to let the ruffles take center stage, they also provide a friendly baby-step into pseudo-pattern mixing.
3 March 2010, originally uploaded by academichic.
Despite the constrained color palette, I like how punchy this combination ended up being: soft ruffles against graphic black and white leaves. (I did belt the cardigan with to give a little more shape and even out the proportions of my epically long torso. Plus, introducing one more texture — leather — seemed like a good idea.)
I had a bit of a dilemma over whether or not to tuck the leaf print top into my pants or not. One the one hand, I like the more relaxed feel of the untucked top, and it allowed more of the pattern to be visible. On the other hand, tucking it in makes for a longer leg line, which I enjoy.
Have you embraced embellished cardigans?** How do you wear yours?
3 March 2010, originally uploaded by academichic.
* At least, so says my unofficial perusing of J Crew and Anthropologie, an admittedly limited style sample. But whatever.
** If you’re unsure, stay tuned for a DIY post in the next few days explaining how you can make your own embellished cardi on the cheap.
I think that every single one of my cardis is solid-colored and unembellished. How sad is THAT?
I don’t own an embellished cardigan, but your outfit makes me want to purchase a ruffled cardigan. The whole outfit is just too cute. By the way, I like the look with the untucked top.
Not a single patterned cardi!?! Better rectify that pretty soon. ;) I’m a fan of the embellishment – I’ve got one with little ruffles, and a few with beads/sequins. It’s a VERY easy way to jazz up a plain pair of black pants or jeans.
i LOVE this look! the pattern and ruffles together look terrific–and it is formal without being too buttoned-up.
love love it!
I love the embellishment, it makes me see how I could actually wear those cardigans. I prefer the leaf print untucked.
Love the movement between the ruffles and the print, and your wide trousers look so elegant!
I have an embellished jacket (actually “constructed” entirely of tattered roses) and I love it. I can hardly wait for yoru DIY!
Ooh looking forward to the DIY! I love embellished cardigans, and that statement definitely includes your ruffled one here—-so perfect. I have a few embellished ones (sequins, fabric flowers my sister attached) and would love to add more to my wardrobe.
This is very attractive! That’s a beautiful cardigan and I really like it paired with the black and white. I do think it looks better untucked too – that was immediately what I was drawn to.
I love them! I think they can add a certain whimsy to a neutral outfit.
I don’t have any patterned cardigans either and only a couple embellished ones
I can’t wait to see your DIY post!!
hey! We’ve been tackling this very issue over at Archival Allure:
http://archival-allure.tumblr.com/post/421116643/springy-sweater-solutions
and some DIY efforts:
http://archival-allure.tumblr.com/post/423402864/diy-task-force
I haven’t exactly embraced them…I think they’re adorable BUT I am trying to stop leaning on cardigans as a crutch, which I think I often do!
Can’t wait for the DIY. I embellished one with gros grain ribbon, a la JCrew, but its black. I need a spring one! Also, how about a tutorial on how you “skinnied” your jeans.
Okay, here is my challenge for you. Can you make a 34 year veteran look as good as you do?? What would you suggest for a 56 year old kindergarten teacher? Help!
I love the ruffles + patterned top, it really works! I don’t own a patterned cardigan either, but I think the texture has a similar effect. Thanks for inspiring me to find new ways to remix my beloved, much-worn cardigans!
I LOVE your trousers!!!
I don’t have any patterned or embellished cardigans either!
The ruffles are so, so cute!
Oh I do love the ruffly sweater you’re sporting! Makes the whole outfit really pop!
Oh, the ruffles and the pattern are so perfect together!!
[...] full-on embrace of the ruffles trend that has permeated fashion for several seasons now and which my co-bloggers wear with such panache. I also like the point that A. brought up yesterday about her cascade of ruffles reminding her of a [...]