Here are my results.
Prior to joining YLF I did not own a single cardigan. Every single topper I owned was a blazer. Today I own four blazers and five cardigans.
Grey suede blazer: My favorite blazer of all time (the blazer to rule them all). I don't wear it because it seems I am "saving" it. I didn't have to work hard to define outfits that incorporate this blazer. Most things in my wardrobe work with it. Solution: I will consciously plan on wearing it from now on.
Black blazer: This is my workhorse. I wear it constantly. I wear it in the office and as outerwear on mild weekends. I could not function without a black blazer in my wardrobe. I guess this would be an "essential."
Red blazer: I love the color. I don't wear it because it is a heavy flannel wool and too warm to wear at the office. I keep the blazer because I love the color. Solution: wear as outer wear in addition to the black blazer.
Charcoal blazer with subtle pinstripe: Great blazer. It is dressier than any of the other blazers in my repertoire. It could be the pin stripe. I bought this blazer to give the black blazer a break from rotation. The truth is that I still reach for the black blazer...every single time. I have a lot of grey pants. Solution: Try coordinating with the grey ponte pants. If this doesn't work, nothing will. Donate.
Talbots fuchsia silk cardigan: My favorite cardigan of all time (the cardigan to rule them all). I don't wear it because it seems I am "saving" it too. It is perfect for my climate. When I do wear it, I wear it most often in the Spring. It is gorgeous. Solution: I will plan on wearing it this coming Spring.
J Jill black cashmere cardigan: This should be a workhorse because it is black. It is a J Jill item and there is something about the proportions that don't make me feel fabulous. I have only worn it ten times in one year. I wonder if I forget about it and reach for my black blazer instead. Solution: I'll place it in a prominent spot in my wardrobe. If I see it and don't wear it, then I'll know it is time to donate.
Old Navy grey crew neck cotton cardigan: I picked this up on a whim. It was my first cardigan purchase. It is cheap. Really cheap, but I wear it constantly. When I travel, this is the cardigan I want in my carry-on bag. I fully intend to upgrade this article in the future. I have yet to find one that I like as much.
Gap grey cotton cardigan: This was the second cardigan I bought (also grey). I wear it solely for lounging. I tried it at the office, but found it looked too much like I was wearing my Grandfather's old sweater. Not a good look in public, but a great look at home watching TV. And it is oh so cosy.
Banana Republic cotton cardigan. This cardigan is heathered. Most people would not see a pattern, but I do. Evidently, I am not a big fan of such a pronounced heathered pattern. This sweater was included in my first ever WIW. I got lots of positive suggestions. I haven't had the opportunity to try the suggestions yet, but I will.
Here is what I learned. I don't have as many toppers as I thought. They are spread out between two closets. You wouldn't think this would be a factor in planning what I am going to wear, but it seems to be. I need to put everything together into a single closet.
I have a favored silhouette in both blazers and cardigans. The ones I love the most have nearly identical proportions.
I always plan my outfits by first selecting a bottom. I want to try selecting a topper first and see where it takes me.
