as much as we may hate to face it....

Summer is nearing its end, which means that fall is around the corner. And, as we all know, that transition period where it's still warm, but not warm enough for "summer clothes" can be tricky to plan an outfit for. In this addition of the Big Girl Blog, my goal is to give some suggestions on how to layer, with out adding bulk, and keeping it stylish. As always, questions and feed back are encouraged!

Now, on to layering suggestions...

1.The Cardigan- what seems like a basic staple to any wardrobe. But if not worn properly, it can take you from trendy to tragic in the snap of a finger. Basically, you want to make sure it fits you properly. If you wear it closed, it should JUST hug the body. In other words, make sure it's not too tight. If the buttons are pulling, and leaving additional holes along the front, where there shouldn't be, then you need to go  up a size. If you choose to wear it open, be sure that it is not too big. The last thing you want is to be swimming in your cardigan. This will only make you look bigger. To get perfect fit, apply the same principle mentioned above...when the buttons line up perfectly down the center of the body, and the fabric hugs the body with out showing all the "bumps and bulges", you have the perfect fit.

2. The Hankie-hem Cardi- this too can be tricky. They tend to have long hems, and if not paired with the right items it can look awful. So, when wearing a hankie-hem cardi, be sure to pair with slim legged bottoms or straight skirts. If pairing with a skirt, make sure the skirt is longer than the longest part of the cardi. Lastly, be sure to wear your true size!

3. The Blazer- I must say, I am guilty of NOT owning one...not sure why that is, but I don't. I guess I should rectify this, and soon! Picking the perfect blazer is relatively simple, just make sure it fits properly. The sleeve (if a traditional long sleeve) should hit right at the wrist. It should be able to button with ease (same rules for the cardigan apply here also), and when buttoned, it should accentuate your waist...not hide it.


4. Layering these items- The cardi, and the hankie-hem cardi should be pair with a shirt that fits a bit sloser to the body, i.e a t-shirt, or a "baby tee". With the traditional cardi, it is ok to go with a fuller bottom, i.e a wide leg pant or peasant skirt. Because the traditional cardi will fit closer to the body, and fuller bottom will help to balance out your over all look.  See below for examples of both:

The traditional cardi look can be found at Oldnavy.com. The Hankie-Hem Cardi look can be found at Onestopplus.com.

***with the Hankie-Hem cardi, make sure the shirt you wear under neath is long enough to cover your stomach and booty!

When wearing a Blazer, these rule do not necessarily apply, because it can also double as outer ware. Just  be sure to purchase in solid colors, that can be easily matched with any outfit.  See below for an example from Simplybe.com:

As always, thank you for taking the time to read m blog! Now go forth, and keep it classy!