During my eye doctor’s appointment, which lasted almost three hours, I took advantage of some much-needed quiet time to consider what might be a suitable subject to cover for the blog. Since I was wearing one of my favorite classic pieces, I thought it would be helpful to show you a cardigan styled in a few different ways.
The navy cardigan I wore in all these images is here. I have it in several colors and wear them nearly year-round. My reasons for choosing this style over others include the thin-gauge cotton-blend knit and the V-neckline. I can even wear it under a blazer since it isn’t bulky. If you are also busty, I highly recommend fine gauge knits. The soft, breathable fabric of the cardigan works beautifully even in warm weather.
The look above is the one I wore to my doctor’s appointment. The shoes are here. The jeans are here. I want to mention that they run small. I bought the long length since I wanted to wear them with heels or wedges, but the size 28 fits more snuggly than other jeans in the same size from the same company. The fabric is composed of 98% Regenagri regenerative cotton and 2% elastane-spandex, which means it doesn’t maintain its structure as regular 98% cotton jeans do.
The navy and cream silk crêpe de chine scarf is here. The white tank is here. I buy these tanks in a size larger so that they don’t pull across the bust. I’ve been wearing them for almost a decade, and I will continue to do so. The fabric is soft, but it allows other fabrics to flow smoothly across it without dragging or clinging. I enjoy adding a pop of red or tan to give some depth to my neutral combos. The red Sam Edelman bag is a few years old, but I bought it here. It’s a crossbody-style bag, but I tucked the chain inside to wear it as a clutch. The belt is also old, but I purchased it here.
The pearl and silver bracelet is here. I bought the eight-inch version, and I’m not exaggerating when I say I’ve worn it more than a hundred times over the past three years. Use my code SAS10 to get $10 off your Beauty in Stone Jewelry purchase.
My eyes were still fully dilated, so it was much more comfortable with sunglasses on. I have worn sweaters tied around my neck since I was a teen. It’s an elegant way to have an extra layer on hand when needed. It adds a little pizzazz to your look as a bonus!
The handbag is here. The shoes are here. The rattan and shell earrings are here. I’ve had the other items for at least two years.
Button the cardigan, then place the front against your back and drape the arms over your shoulders. I bought my cardigan here.
The linen-blend dress is here. I bought a size larger, thinking it would be too snug at the bust. I was wrong. Buy your usual size. The shoes are here. A similar bag is here. I found the earrings here a few years ago.
Wearing a cardigan draped over my shoulders is necessary when I go into air-conditioned spaces while wearing a sundress. When I go on vacation or spend a summer evening outdoors, I always take a cover with me. The lightweight cardigan is one I have taken on many a vacation, and I was always glad I had it.
I also enjoy wearing this cardigan partially buttoned as a top with jeans.
I hope these tips and examples were helpful. Please let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if I’ve overlooked your preferred way of wearing your favorite cardigan.
*Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost.
It’s wonderful to know how much you like your pearl bracelet and rattan earrings. Love the rattan sandals. I have a few pair by Matisse and they are unexpectedly comfortable!
Delightful looking outfits. Glad my eyes aren’t blurry when I look at you.
Wonderful post for wearing a “third layer”. Cardigans will stand the test of time in their versatility and style. As always your styling is spot on!
I too love the v neck forever sweaters and wear them a lot in spring , winter and fall. I have not tried the cardigans but I think I will. They look nice and not bulky.
This is a great sweater tutorial. What size is your navy cardigan?
My cardigan is a size medium.
Susan, here are several more outfits worn in a very casual style, while having this chic side that suits you so well. Spring is already here, and your shoes are ever more open like your two pairs of gorgeous high heeled mules. So feminine when you wear them, with a dress or pants, they are absolutely perfect on your feet. For now, I don’t have preference… I love them so much.
Thank you for the post and like your look with cardigans so I am rethinking them and will include. Have a great day.
Where did you purchase the lovely straw and leather you are carrying in the final photo? Thanks.
That’s a Ralph Lauren tote and it’s about four years old.
Lovely as always
I love the v-neck cardi. I’m traveling right now, but am considering ordering when I’m home. I have the pullover and like the weight and look. I enjoy seeing how you style simple elements in different ways. Wishing you a pleasant week.
I am not a cardigan person (more a sweater, jacket or poncho person) but you style them so well that I almost want to go out and buy one. You look great! 🙂
Great!
Can you tell me where to get a larger straw type bag like you had in the picture with the jeans and sweater? Or maybe some other sites that have similar? Thanks so much!
The straw tote is by Ralph Lauren and is about four years old. I found some straw totes here.
Classical navy and white stands the test of time . Another gorgeous scarf perfect for Spring . All the outfits jewellery, accessaries etc are so you Susan clean classic lines , my favourite too.You look so pretty in the white dress , the length is elegant and the little navy cardigan so versatile in all the looks . Thank you for simple but clever post it ticks all the boxes for me.
Pamela UK xx
Navy and white looks classic and classy on you! Thanks for great cardigan details!
Hi Susan. What size did you purchase in the cardigan?
I love your style!
I purchased the cardigan in a size medium.
Susan – you look even more wonderful all the time! Thanks for sharing your elegance with all of us. I live a very casual life with 5 animals and a younger husband – no need to really ever wear more than old jeans and a well used tshirt. So I live vicariously through your lovely outfits and style. Have a happy summer. It’s too hot here already for a cardigan but maybe in November!
Do you have to wear a slip underneath the linen dress?
Thank you
Susan
The dress is fully lined, so no need for a slip.
Susan I love the tank top with a cardigan worn over it. I’m self conscious about my stomach so I don’t wear things tucked in. Any suggestions?
Ensure that your tops fall loosely over your tummy and stop just beneath it. If the top is too long or tight, it can draw attention to the waist and hips. A top that extends beyond the hip/leg joint makes the legs look shorter.
I love these looks. I really like the lightweight cardigan versatility.
Great outfits! Thanks again, for all your advice and photos!
You always look so elegant and at the same time, comfortable. Love your styling ideas. Hope your eye appointment went well. Have a wonderful weekend.
Thank you, Rhoda. All is well.
Love the outfits, Susan. Question – wouldn’t the jean with elastane hold shape a little better?
I find that denim with more than 2% elastane loses it’s shape in about an hour.
Susan you make an impact with all of us with your wonderful styling tips. You also make an impact in other ways. I purchased that Ralph Lauren tote in 2020 when you talked about falling in your garage and that we should carry multiple items to our car in a tote bag instead of trying to carry them in our hands. Thanks for that tip. Your advice is stuck in my brain and I enjoy a fun fashionable tote bag as a plus!
I’m glad you are still enjoying your bag. That was a lesson I also won’t forget.
These are some great ideas. This looks like a piece that should be added to my closet and I’m sure I’ll wear it often. Love these looks.
Hi,
I wasn’t able to copy and paste the first photo for my Susan Album styles that I prefer to use for myself. I could copy the second photo but prefer the whole picture you show. That way I get a better idea on accessories (shoes) for a total view.
You give such a great account of why you wear certain things the way you do. One example that was for me is wearing a long top makes the legs look shorter. I am already short so I will heed that advice in future purchases.
Thanks again for doing your blog. It means a lot to many people including myself!
Clara from Iowa
Susan, I loved all your cardigan looks! What a versatile piece. I’m going to order a navy one, too! Did you find the sizing small, large, or TTS? Thank you
I found it TTS.
For some reason I have been unsubscribed? Please reinstate me as I love getting your articles.
Thank you, Theresa. I changed it back to confirmed.
Thank you. Your blogs are helpful and when I’ve been tempted to purchase a print top that will not pair with multiple pieces I have on hand, I think of you and pass it by.
This looks great, but so many of us cannot tuck our blouse in because of tummy/waist issues. Would you consider doing a segment on how to camouflage that problem?
Ensure that your tops fall loosely over your tummy and stop just beneath it. If the top is too long or tight, it can draw attention to the waist and hips. A top that extends beyond the hip/leg joint makes the legs look shorter.
This is such a useful post! So many great tips. Thank you … again.
Wonderful post. You look gorgeous! I always get a thrill when I see something new from you. Love the looks I will be using some ideas for my own wardrobe selections. Wishing both you and Mr Mickey all the best from AZ. Thank you.
Your Peace Lily and Anthurium both look glorious! What is the secret? Mine were doing fine but have recently decided to give up the ghost.
Love your outfits today – very chic.
I keep the plants in the sunroom with a ceiling fan going all the time. I repot plants every couple of years into a pot that is two inches bigger and water them once a week. Fertilize with Miracle Grow once a month.
A very timely post. I reside in SW FL and a cardigan sweater is a much needed third piece for dining out in restaurants. Nothing heavier is hardly ever required.
I LOVE navy and white – great ideas here!
I love the Francis Valentine rooster bag and have been considering it. I have a large tote with bamboo handles from Talbots but the handles pinch my arm if I try to carry it that way. Do you find this to be the case with the rooster bag?
Thank-you! Love your blog–
I almost always carry the bag in my hand, so I haven’t any bruises yet. I’ve found that problem with some of my other bamboo handle bags.
Hello Susan, I have a question about your accessories. Is the red color of the bag on the first two photos the same as the red color of the shoes worn on the last photo? Could there have been a combination of these two very eye-catching accessories? Accessories that I particularly love…
The color isn’t the same and they have different textures, so I won’t be wearing them together.
Always chic, always classy, Susan. You are so talented at what you do! Just to take a simple cardigan and style it like you did is so helpful, and just the way I like to dress! It always leaves me saying, “why can’t I do that,” and I guess the answer is, I don’t take the time to think about it, let alone do it! All your outfits are so nice looking, and I appreciate your advice from all your blog posts to help me pull it together!
I wear a lot of scarves too, all year round, so I will purchase this one to add to my collection because it’s so classic and classy!
Thanks Susan! Wish I could come to your gathering in May. What a wonderful idea. Maybe, if there’s another time in the future, I will make the trip!
Good morning Susan,
I love this post! I never thought about buying a fine gauge sweater. The versatility you mention is awesome and one I hadn’t considered. Thanks for showing all of the flexibility a cardigan can offer. Amy
Love your style!
Nice articles
I always love your fashion tips and advice.
I know I will miss your message on email.
I will try to find your website on Facebook.
I am like you, I like nice classic styles, since I’m home with MS
my lifestyle is casual, but I don’t want to look frumpy.
You are doing a wonderful job looking after you loved one.
Take care.