Two Ways: A Colorful Fall Cardigan

The ease of having a mostly black-and-white wardrobe cannot be overstated. I almost never have to think about my clothes in the fall-winter months.  But it does get a bit stale, and seeing the warmer color palettes many retailers are selling this season, it makes me think it might be time to add a bit more color to my wardrobe.

These outfits both feature Ann Taylor’s v-neck cardigan in spiced orange.  It’s a lovely rust-colored cardigan that’s perfect with neutrals — tan, taupe, navy, grey, black — but that I am choosing to show with more colorful pieces.  I love the chunky styling of this cardigan, and the price (<$90) is pretty fantastic.  Runs sizes XXS to XXL, all are still in stock.

For a similar plus-size option, this cardigan from A New Day or this one from Naadam may work for you.

Left // The stores may be filling with fall clothing, but it’s not fall yet.  And for those of you in warmer climates, it won’t be fall for a minute.  So why not mix in a but of summer color?

This blouse from Ann Taylor has a fabulous orange-pink floral print that manages to be bright and colorful without being too saccharine.  If florals aren’t your thing, this dotted rust-colored top is a good option.  I also like this rust color mixed with olive; so try this olive-floral blouse with hints of pink from Lucky.

I chose an off-white jean for this look because I know a lot of people bought ivory-colored jeans last year and didn’t get to wear them.  But you could also due white if you wanted a more summery look.  This pair from Topshop is on deep discount, but I also like these relaxed-fit jeans from Reformation.

These Alena flats from Nine West are fantastic.  This darker tan color isn’t easy to find since most of the industry had gone to lighter tans, so if it’s a color you’re looking for, give these a look.  Even in another color, it’s tough to find square-toe flats (the more grown up alternative to the ballet flat), so these are definitely worth your time in any hue.

Lastly, I chose an olive bag to bring out the hints of green in the printed blouse.  This one from Target is an affordable basic.  For a spendier option, try this Ted Baker bag.  And for the jewelry, I chose these really unique, but classic drops from Vineyard Vines.  I feel like I could wear these earrings for years.

For this look, I’d wear my hair half-up/half-down.  I’d also bring in a bit of bronzer for a bit of a sun-kissed, lightly contoured glow.

Right // Burgundy and orange is a great color combination.  For some of you in Virginia, it may be a little too close to Hokie colors in bright orange, but in this muted rust it’s perfection.  It’s a very elegant fall look.

This dress from Dress the Population could switch between work and cocktail.  Saks has it in limited sizes; Verishop has a few as well.  Need a v-neck option with sleeves?  This a-line Of Mercer dress is worth a look.  And do not sleep on this Maggie London cross-front dress, which I am now completely obsessed with.

I paired the bag and the dress because I didn’t want to bring in a fourth color, even a neutral.  I was concerned that would look busy.  This is another A New Day bag from Target.  I also like this Strathberry tote if you want a better quality bag for under-$500.

I finished this look with a pair of cool croc-embossed shoes in a light neutral.  I like the blockier heel here for stability, but the strap keeps it from being too heavy for the look.  And the necklaces are a lovely, delicate layered set from Nordstrom.  These give you an easy to wear look that is on trend but subtle.

For this look, how you wear your hair will determine whether the look is dressy or casual.  Wear it down, lightly waved, with some texturizing spray, and a pushed up sleeve, and it’s more relaxed.  Wear it up in a low bun and it’s more staid and professional.

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