Fall is here! And, as bad as I want to embrace cozy stylings, the typical daily temperature in Houston rings in at about 80 to 86 degrees. Umm… cool down, where?
While living in such a warm (and humid) climate, I have to find subtle ways to rock autumn wardrobe staples. Enter in the timeless fall basic: the cardigan. My spirit rejoices for good cardigan.
They’re easy to combine with other hero pieces in your closet such as denim, sweatpants, skirts and trousers. Cardigans come in a myriad of colors, punchy prints and lush fabrics, yet their preppy design automatically injects a classic addition to any look. Add a chunky boot to lean into the grunge aesthetic or opt for heels to serve up some glamour. Don’t forget to accessorize!
As seen above, one of my recent outfits included a thrifted cream cardigan from Cable & Gauge, a custom ankara-print mini skirt from the London-based brand Laviye and Zara wooden platform heels. I topped of the look with vintage gold geometric drop earrings, my new Vivienne Westwood pearl necklace and a mini Telfar bag in the “Painter’s Blue” hue. Check out similar finds below:

My thought process behind the look was simple: I wanted to uplift a skirt that I had not worn in over three years. I challenged myself to breathe new life into the tricolored stunner by combining its cool eccentricity with my favorite basics.
If you want to make more of a splash, invest in a cardigan knit dress. Check out the fall and winter runway collections for Staud, Bottega Veneta, Proenza Schouler and Jacquemus for additional doses of sartorial fire.
Aside from cardigans, I’m also excited to don bright colors, statement sneakers and (of course) my go-to comfy sweaters for the months ahead. What seasonal trends are you excited about? And, how are you rocking your cardigans? Sound off below!
“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.”
RACHEL ZOE
