Spring Thinking: Three Great Cardigans

I'm not into New Years resolutions.  I gag a bit each time I see a magazine cover or marketing blast exploding with those inane "New Year, new you!" headlines (actually the same story recycled from the previous year, with a new cover model).  While I certainly have goals both big and small, I don't feel the need to designate a time of year for a self assessment or suddenly resolve to shed old habits and take up new and enriching hobbies. One of my ongoing non-resolutions has been to declutter, which includes the purging of my closet (probably so I can fill it up again with new stuff a few months later). In addition to the eight pairs of jeans, seven pairs of shoes, and countless coats and tops I've already done away with in the past year, I'll also be retiring several cardigans that have seen better days. The timing couldn't be more perfect, as I've just discovered a trifecta of perfect spring cardigans:

1. A folksy, open-stitched neutral with a bit of bright accent color. Kimchi Blue Rosie Posie Cardigan, $68 @ Urban Outfitters.

2. A slim, whisper light number in brilliant poppy to shake up your tired rotation of black and neutral hues. Vanessa Bruno Cotton Cardigan, $130 @ Net-a-porter.

3. A chunky, oversized knit for chilly mornings. Paul & Joe Sister Flavio Crochet-Knit Cardigan, $340 @ Net-a-porter.

Photos:
1) www.urbanoutfitters.com
2-3) www.net-a-porter.com

From Grind to Play: Workday Dresses That Beg To Be Taken Out For Cocktails

The dress code at my office is pretty lax -- leather pants are perfectly acceptable in our finance department (work it, Roberto), a bit of cleavage before noon won't raise any eyebrows, flannel shirts are commonplace, and if you're a creative, well, anything goes. I have to say that it's pretty convenient to be able to shift from daytime to evening without sacrificing too much style, and it allows me to scoff in disdain at the stuffy jackets and pantsuits I invariably encounter during happy hour.  Your workplace may not be as awesome relaxed as mine, but here's my version of workwear that can be taken out for drinks without getting you labeled as a dull nine-to-fiver. I apologize in advance if any of these killer looks inspires a lecture from HR.

I just ordered Surface to Air's Rubin Dress, and if all goes well when I try on, I'll be strutting into the office with it on Monday, with patterned tights and loads of necklaces. $192 @ Oak.

Go ladylike with this Paul and Joe Sister Wool-blend mini dress, $180 @ Net-a-Porter.

Charlotte Ronson Lace Trimmed Suit Dress is hyper-femme with vintage-inspired lace details, dainty belt, and slim, pencil silhouette. $188 @ Candystore Collective.

 

Photo credit:
1) www.oaknyc.com
2) www.net-a-porter.com
3-4) www.candystorecollective.com