Nautical Outfit Styling a Self Portrait Cardigan

Today’s look is inspired by the “water element” which is the sign element of zodiac year 2022. I personally love spending time near the water, it always feeds my soul, so any outfit that is inspired by it is immediately a favorite. What makes this one perfect is the juxtaposition of simplicity and casualness with intricacy and texture/details – creating a combination that seems basic at first sight, but then unfolds with more complexity.

Here are the exact ingredients to this outfit formula, and how I styled it:

1. Self Portrait Cardigan Sweater. This Ivory Metallic Cardigan is giving me major Chanel vibes – mixed with “grandpa chic” vibes. The shiny thread makes it super dressy and the buttons have amazing texture – the braided trim brings it all together, and the pockets are such a nice finishing touch.. The only thing I don’t love about it is the length – as it hits right around my hips when fully buttoned up (which is also the half-way point of my body) – and that’s not a super flattering spot on my body (or anyone else’s for that matter) as it divides it in half and gives me the wrong proportions. So I employed a few styling tricks to make sure to keep the eye moving – and create the right ratio of proportions with my hemlines. I opened up the bottom 2 buttons to add a visual break so the waist of my jeans became the focus as the horizontal line – pointing at my waist vs hips (which is higher and narrower). That’s a great trick to use if the cardigan is not tuck-able due to a heavier fabric. It also does look nice open – for a different option.
   
2. My (NEW) Favorite Jeans. I just got this pair of RE/DONE Originals High-Rise 70’s Stove Pipe Jeans – which are similar to the other pair I own, and they’re honestly EVEN MORE AMAZING! They have more stretch than my other pair and are tight in all the right places. LOVE LOVE LOVE them! Found them on sale on a few different websites with limited sizing available – check them out via the carousel below, and grab them while they’re still here!
   
3. Feminine Bag. This Polene Numero Huit in NUDE is my latest (and last) purchase from the brand – which rounds out my collection. I really like its fun “bucket” look with a drawstring – I think it’s versatile and delicate. I’m styling it in a few more upcoming outfits – stay tuned!
   
4. Casual and Comfortable Shoes. This pair of Vivaia Flats is on constant repeat; they’re super easy to throw on with just about anything – and are great driving shoes too. You can use my code DINA for 18% off your pair!
   

I hope this inspires you to try out a similar outfit, and as always, please feel free to share the outfits you create via Instagram, using hashtag #ModnitsaOutfit in your posts, and I’ll be sure repost them on my stories!

xo,

Photography by Abigail Cernava.