Pretty Kitty with a Banned Cardigan

Hey Strangers!

I’ve been straight up crap with blogging recently — I’m working more hours since I got a promotion, and it’s really hard getting the balance right! But never mind the doom and gloom, the sun’s been making an appearance recently, and I’m enjoying wearing shorter sleeves and not freezing! So it’s a perfect time to show off my new Banned Cardigan, right? 

FYI, since we’re being more transparent on Instagram lately, I thought I’d extend this to the blog. The cardigan featured in this post was gifted, and some of the links throughout are affiliate links. However, everything I mention is my own thoughts and feelings. You can read more about this on my Disclaimer page.

I mentioned I’m a bit unbalanced, right? Well this was supposed to be a full outfit review. I received a gorgeous dress and cardigan to show off this week. However you may notice that I’m not wearing that particular dress in these photos. In fact, I’m actually wearing an old handmade dress I rediscovered recently. 

So where’s the dress? Well, I went away to my boyfriend’s place for the weekend — and managed to momentarily lose it. Turns out I’d left it at work, so I thought I’d style the cardigan up without it, and I’ll show you the dress soon!

Let’s talk Cat Cardigans!

The Banned Cardigan I’m wearing is the re-imagining of their popular Meow Dress and Snow Bird Shirt. I’m never usually attracted to prints with animals in, but I really couldn’t resist this one. Plus, having bracelet-length sleeves means it’s perfect for the winter-spring transition!

I have a Banned Cardigan already, which I posted in a style post here, and I loved the quality. I’m a big fan of embroidered knitwear as it is, and I’m particular about how they feel. Thankfully this one is just as soft and luscious on!

What about fit?

I chose a 2XL in the Cat Cardigan, which is a size up from the Cosmetic cardigan I have. The fit is good around the bust, but I do find that Banned really cater for bigger arms! Great for girls with bigger arms, of course — but for me, I really wish it was just a touch tighter in the arms and the shoulders. It has this lovely princess-esque detailing on the sleeve, which is a style that really works with my shoulders well, though!

Then of course, there’s a playful little kitty on the front. I’ve worn this a lot since it arrived, and people always comment on it. I have a great collection of embroidered cardigans, but I really feel this one stands out in its simplicity. Also, it’s cute as fuck. The cat silhouette going into the scalloped edging is perfect!

Of course, it’s not a Melody outfit without a Vendula bag, right? This is the mini satchel bag from the new Post Box collection — such a sweet little bag that really helps the red in my outfit pop, right?

The Cat Banned Cardigan comes in four colours in sizes XS – 4XL, which you can buy directly from Banned’s website. I’d recommend going by bust sizes more than anything else, and if you’re smaller-busted to go down a size for a tight fit.

What do you think about this cat cardigan? Yay or nay? How would you wear it?

Cardigan; C/O Banned Apparel
Dress; Handmade
Bangles; Splendette
Bag; Vendula London