Firecracker's Blog

WIW: column of charcoal

October 21, 2014

I had to bench myself on the long versus short cardigan competition, because I wear both. Here's my longest and newest one, a charcoal long boyfriend style, with step hem.

The outfit (worn for a day off): long charcoal cardigan (Halogen); dark gray coated skinnies (AG); hatchy-plaid print tee in grays, black, and white (made by me); flat black booties (Munro, Lexie); black packable coat (Cole Haan); purple specs; purple hobo bag (Kate Spade).

I tried some different options and would like your opinion:
1. cardigan closed, by buttoning a few of the buttons (photo 3) or open (photo1)?
2. pants worn over the back of the boot (photo 4)? or tucked to show the pull tab on the back of the boot (photo 5)?

As someone mentioned on the cardigan discussion, it is hard to wear a long cardigan if it's longer than the coats you usually wear. My outfit is an illustration of that problem. I am not fond of the cardi hanging out, but I'm wearing it like this anyway. I could get out a longer coat, but I'd rather wear this one, so I'm just trying not to stress over it. :)

Thanks for looking! I appreciate your comments and feedback!

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Posted in the What I Wore category
This post is also published in the youlookfab forum. You can read and reply to it in either place. All replies will appear in both places.

15 Comments

  • replied 10 years ago

    Oh I really like this!  Pics are too dark on my monitor to highlight the boot-tucking detail, but I absolutely love that sweater and jeans on you - open and unbuttoned.  I agree with the sweater-longer-than-coat issue , but yours actually doesn't look odd here - it's not so much longer than the jacket that it looks awkward.  Great outfit!!

  • Joy replied 10 years ago

    I agree with everything that Lisap said. I like the cardigan a bit better worn open, but buttoned gives it the look of a sweater dress, which probably looks better with the shorter coat.

  • Suz replied 10 years ago

    What Lisap said. I agree on that long cardigan (or dress or skirt) issue under coats -- it is frustrating for sure. But here it looks quite intentional because everything is so harmonious. 

  • Transcona Shannon replied 10 years ago

    I love EVERYTHING about this outfit Sharan. It's got a great mix of textures, fabulous visual interest with the long cardigan, and just the right dose of "edge".

  • kellygirl replied 10 years ago

    Whoa! Killer outfit. I like the cardigan unbuttoned so you can see more of the pants and the belt. Super awesome!

  • jackiec replied 10 years ago

    Love this! I'm so glad you posted this today bc my long cardi arrived in the mail yesterday. I was wondering the same thing about jackets. Must try. I don't think mine looks nearly a good on me as this on you. Must post a K/R. But back to your outfit - love it all, esp with the coated skinnies & boots.

  • replied 10 years ago

    Fabulous! Love the longline cardi and those fab skinnies. YLF!

  • Melinda SF replied 10 years ago

    I wonder what would happen if when you wear your longest cardigans you went to a true legging or tight.  The reason I say it is that the gathers on your legs are distracting and may add bulk in a way that you weren't intending.  

    What is your body shape? If you are an inverted triangle like me you might find that we do best when our column of color is on the inside vs the outside.  i.e. you wear a white topper with a black shirt and black pants.  To me picture A shows the problem well--it cuts you off half way whereas in the other choices you get the more fluid line.  

    I hope this helps! 

  • Firecracker (Sharan) replied 10 years ago

    Thanks, all!
    Melinda, these jeans are called "leggings." I just called them skinnies, because, well, they are jeans-styled. I was kind of liking the scrunch at the bottom, so I guess, yes, the bulk is unintended. My body shape is slight hourglass. Thanks for the tips!

  • cheryle (Dianthus) replied 10 years ago

    I also have an issue with layers that are longer than the coat worn over them but the dark colors make it easier.  You wear this look very well.  The patterned top, pants with sheen, and texture of the sweater add such interest to your neutrals.  I also like the pop of blue bag.  I am thinking to use this idea in the next day or three.

  • Angie replied 10 years ago

    Killer 

    You nailed it. And wave to Inge who has the same booties in brown - thanks to you. xo

  • Jaime replied 10 years ago

    I love it buttoned with the tabs out. But open with the tabs in is great also :-)!

  • unfrumped replied 10 years ago

    I do like that cardigan. I like it unbuttoned wit the jeans look. I would try the true knit legging for buttoned, if you wear those- I think you would look great. The hatchet plaid is a great print!

  • unfrumped replied 10 years ago

    Hatchy. Phone spelling.

  • catgirl replied 10 years ago

    The sweater under coat is fine - happens to me all the time, especially with hi low hems.  My grandma used to say of this look (as translated): "Your Sunday is longer than your Monday."

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Welcome to my style blog. Dressing is something all of us do each day, but for me it is also a hobby. I like to find new ways to wear the clothes I have, make new clothes to add to my wardrobe (yes, sewing is another hobby!), shop for clothes, read and discuss fashion. Following You Look Fab has fueled my interest in taking outfit pictures to see where I've been and to get different perspectives on style. Thanks for joining me. I always appreciate hearing your thoughts.