StyleBakery.com | Ask The Style Chefs

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Q. I have several sweaters that I’d like to wear for fall - many of which are the chunky styles that are so popular for fall right now. I’d like to create a stylish outfit with these, but am unsure of what would look right for the season.

A. Designers and fashion magazines are once again declaring that chunky sweaters are a hot fall trend. This is great news for those who live in cool climates. The big question is, how to create a flattering silhouette with a chunky knit?

The best way to wear a thick or oversized sweater is to balance it with a slim-fitting bottom such as fitted jeans or cords. A sweater that is longer in length looks great with skinny jeans, leggings or even opaque tights if long enough. Layer thin t-shirts, turtlenecks or feminine blouses underneath to avoid bulking up.

Here are some ideas for layering your knits. Take note of the slim bottoms paired with all:

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1. Free People ‘Gypsy Mélange’ Marled Cardigan, $128 at nordstrom.com
2. Michael Kors Cable Knit Sweater Coat, $59.50 at nordstrom.com
3. Juicy Couture Popcorn Knit Cardigan, $288 at nordstrom.com
4. Free People ‘Heather Fuzz Shaker’ Hooded Sweater, $78.91 at nordstrom.com
5. Rebecca Taylor ‘Runway’ Fringed Pullover Sweater, $380 at nordstrom.com
6. BDG Intarsia Shawl Collar Cardigan, $78 at urbanoutfitters.com
Q. I am a 25 year old mom of two under two. I love everything about fashion but with two I find I don’t have as much time. After having two kids and turning 25 I feel I need a change and a more age appropriate wardrobe and something other then the classic mommy wardrobe of tees and sweats. I am a stay-at-home mom but would like to look fashionable and attractive. I am 5’4, small framed and a larger chest. Please help me feel attractive while being a stay at home mom.

Q. I just discovered your website and am loving it! Do you have any ideas for a daily “uniform” for us moms with little ones in tow? I usually stick to a solid color polo or t-shirt with shorts or jeans. It’s safe and easy….but boring. Can you recommend something well made but not expensive…tailored to those of us who are curvy (nursing and sporting a little leftover baby tummy?)

A. Good for you both for wanting something more stylish than tees, sweats and “mom” clothes. A daily “uniform” that is stylish, comfortable, quick to throw on and washable will make it easy to get dressed each day and prepare you for whatever is in store.

A layered look consisting of a cardigan, wrap sweater or jacket + t-shirt, tank or camisole + jeans, cords or capris with stretch is versatile and flatters a multitude of figures. Fill your closet with variations on this theme and you’ll have the ultimate mix-and-match wardrobe. Top it off with comfortable ballet flats and a chic diaper bag and you’re good to go.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

momlook1.jpg above looks from jcrew.com

momlook2.jpg above: first two looks from gap.com; third look from bananarepublic.com; last look from oldnavy.com
Q. What type of socks should you wear with the new Mary Jane type chunky shoes? Please specify what type with jeans and with a skirt.

A. The great thing about the new Mary Jane and chunky T-Straps is that anything goes when it comes to hosiery. Whether you are wearing them with jeans, wide leg trousers, skirts or dresses, you have many options available to you:


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Q. I am desperately looking for shoes to wear when it’s raining. I already have a pair of rubber Wellies but want something with a bit more style. Any suggestions?

A. We found a slew of chic waterproof shoes - many of them you’ll want to wear rain or shine. Scroll through our picks below:

Q. Ankle Boots are everywhere this Fall. I’m happy about this, since my calves are too dense for mid-shaft boots, but more importantly because I live in Florida, where Autumn is a stylish state of mind, and not much else. I have no idea how to actually WEAR the ubiquitous ankle boot. I know they can be paired with trousers to give the effect of wearing a full on boot—but what else? How do I pair an ankle boot with skirts or dresses? Most importantly: how does someone who isn’t 5’10” and 115 lbs wear an ankle boot without making their legs look shorter/wider?

A. True, ankle boots, or booties, are everywhere this fall, worn with everything from skinny jeans to dresses and skirts. This doesn’t mean it’s a trend for everyone, however. Those with shapely calves may have a hard time wearing ankle boots with a skirt or dress since the boots tend to make even thin calves look a little thicker. If you’re petite or have short legs, be aware that booties will chop inches off the length of your leg, though this can be compensated for with a high heel.

If you think you’re ready to give ankle boots a try, here are some chic options:

1. Wear your ankle boots with skinny jeans
2. Wear them with dresses or skirts that hit just above the knee or higher, below the knee is harder to pull off. You can wear this look bare-legged or with opaque tights.

Here are a few visuals, on the left is from shopbop.com and the rest are from bananarepublic.com:

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