Janet: As soon as the snow is gone and it's not terribly cold, I'm in slides and mules. Maybe not bare, strappy sandals, but these are fine We are tough up here in the North I hear you about short cardigans being too classic - and I never wear them either. These two are in that in-between range, which is proving tricky to style. I really don't have the patience to work hard to make clothes- and me - look good. Fortunately the orangey one wasn't expensive, so if it doesn't end up getting worn much , it's not a big loss.
Roxanna - I totally agree with long cardigans, okay , ANY cardigan , being too classic . I rarely wear them myself. It's also an environmental thing - they are great as an outdoor piece in spring and fall, but we all know how long those seasons last in Canada. Too unwieldy to wear inside unless you're standing all day. I'm still going to have your styling ideas for the shorter ones a try this week but am also making a note to self not to be tempted to buy any more of them.
Stylefan - you don't look frumpy ever, and your cardigans are significantly shorter than my two. Plus, you are styling them the way Angie suggests: with wider, cropped pants. You're actually the epitome of this look and wear it SO well.