Kristina J. DIY Ideas | DIY Style: making it work

Never underestimate the power of a cardigan to transform a wardrobe.
Without a doubt, I feel my cardigans are the most versatile pieces I own. I have short ones, long ones, embellished ones and plain ones. They offer infinite, year-round possibilities to all the other clothes I own. It's not quite a sweater, not quite a vest and it's perfect for days when it's just not cold enough to wear a jacket, but still a bit chilly. Functional without being frumpy, you can wear them
1. Open
2. Buttoned and belted
3. Over t-shirts and camis
4. As a layering piece under blazers
5. Buttoned and tucked like a blouse
(Don't trust me on that last one? Just check out some pictures of the ever classy Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn...)

Depending on ruffles and embellishment, a cardigan can be dressed up or dressed down and the right cardi can pull an outfit together without it looking like you just threw something on to stay warm. There is nothing in my closet that offers more diversity when building outfits and even the most basic cardigan can make a large impact on an otherwise bland outfit.

What's your favorite type of cardigan and how do you wear it?

A Making It Work post is all about styling a piece using coordinating and contrasting colors to create the most options possible. I love doing these posts because they help me wrap my mind around all my options, and I hope you walk away with some inspiration, too!

Coordinating Look 1

A structured skirt goes all soft and feminine with shades of pink and cream, while the killer shoes remind everyone that you're to be taken seriously. =)
Ackee Skirt--Coordinating

1. J Crew crew neck top

2. Beach top
3. Cotton skirt
4. BDG suede shoes
5. Anthro Work Weekend bag
6. FOSSIL Stella watch
7. J Crew vintage studded belt

Coordinating Look 2

You know the girl that has it all together? This is that girl...no missteps, no messin' around. A mixture of the basics with a kick and a punch.

1. J crew cardigan

2. J Crew shirts blouse
3. Seychelles Kiss at Midnight pumps
4. Kate Spade pocket tote bag
5. Fossil watch
6. Straw hat

Coordinating Look 3

Obviously, not for the office...but this is exactly the sort of styling I love. I'm at home with my children most days, so working the dressy pieces in my closet with a more relaxed, cool-momma sort of vibe is perfect for my lifestyle.

1. J Crew cotton t shirt

2. Boat shoes
3. J Crew leather handbag
4. FOSSIL rose gold watch
5. J Crew studded leather belt
6. Buffalo check boy shirt

Contrasting Look 1

I'd have never thought to do something like this before I started reading Kim's blog...she's the queen at toning down primary colors with pastels. Love the effect of this look...