Brocade and Black

(Mixing up my uniform with brocade pants.)

I live in jeans during the fall and winter, but sometimes it’s nice to mix things up a little.  I’ve had my eye on these Brocade Charlie Trousers in Green for months, but I wasn’t certain I could pull off the look.  I’ve shied away from colored and printed jeans in the past in favor of darker washes.  But I fell in love with these trousers, and when they went on sale, I decided to try them.

I was truly surprised at both their fit and how slimming they are, and since they are mostly cotton, I can wear the pants through the spring.  The pattern is classic, but also sort of 1960s-inspired, and the brocade reminds me of wallpaper.  It’s a fun look and I’m so thrilled that I took a risk and moved outside my comfort zone a little bit.

(Cartonnier’s Green Brocade Charlie Trousers.)

To balance the busyness of the trousers, I paired them with a basic black tee and my new Arced Crest Cardigan by Bailey 44, a brand I featured in my first Anthro: USA post.  The cardigan is soft and flattering, and it nips in slightly at the waist.  I especially love the braiding at the sides, and it reminds me a little of something Catelyn Stark might wear.  I’ve had a trusty black cardigan for several years that is beginning to wear out, and this sweater, made in the United States, is the perfect replacement.

(Bailey 44’s Arced Crest Cardigan.)

And, just for fun, here’s a picture of me cracking up during this photo shoot.  Ryan was encouraging me to open my eyes wider, and he did his best imitation of “doe eyes.”  I couldn’t contain my laughter.

(Cracking up.)

I look pretty silly in that picture, but I still really like those trousers!