V A is a long standing and recognised digital creative; her voice resonates with many. In the last ten years, the site has developed into an online destination for fashion, beauty and lifestyle advice. Her sense of style, editorial flair and practical counsel offers an inspired and graceful approach to living.

V A is a long standing and recognised digital creative; her voice resonates with many. In the last ten years, the site has developed into an online destination for fashion, beauty and lifestyle advice. Her sense of style, editorial flair and practical counsel offers an inspired and graceful approach to living.

Edit by: Vicki
Nov 12, 2019

Swap The Blazer: Layer Up With The Cardigan

Layer Up With The Cardigan on vickiarcher.com


Another forgotten favourite, the cardigan.

I’m talking about a classic style, “tailored” not too long and not the too short style of button-up sweater. Wearing these with a man-style shirt and jeans or trousers was once one of my most worn looks – the cardigan was a relaxed alternative to the blazer but still had the put-together feel I wanted. I was a fan of lace-up flat shoes and would wear those – they need to come back too.


Cardigans can be very tricky and go very wrong.

Too long or too full and they run the risk of looking very dowdy. A trim, two-pocket button-up is another matter; they remind me of an old-fashioned cardigan my grandfather would wear with his shirt and tie.


Wearing a cardigan with an A-line skirt or fuller style mid-length is also a winner. Imagine a pretty blouse underneath or simply alone with tights and lace-ups, a small heel or a pair of booties. The cardigan is a very practical and also comfortable addition to both mid-season and winter wardrobes. A heavy coat can sit comfortably on top when we need it.


More and more I am falling back to familiar pieces; to the classics I know and trust. I wear them differently than I once did but I am starting to see a pattern. The cardigans were a staple, in grey, in black and sometimes in a camel colour (paired with grey flannel trousers and a white shirt) and a work uniform for me.


The cardigan will never replace a blazer for me – a tailored blazer will always hold first place – but they make a wonderful alternative when the structure of a fitted jacket is prohibitive.



I’m all for alternatives and making our wardrobes work together. Never underestimate this one. xv




This Is The Style I’m Talking About

1901 wool & cashmere cardigan  ||  madewell arbour cardigan sweater  ||  joseph button cashmere cardigan




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image,carolyn murphy, naked cashmere 19

Edit by: Vicki
In This Post: Fashion , Shopping Stories