Wednesday Wardrobing: How To Style Color Block Sweaters Like a Pro

Every Wednesday at 6 p.m., our Wednesday Wardrobing series goes live on Facebook to explore the latest fashion trends and how to wear them with confidence. This October, we’ve been diving deep into some of the biggest style trends for Fall/Winter 2025 — from Barrel Legs and Layering Essentials to Wide Leg Cropped Pants. Last night, we wrapped up the month with a trend that’s bold, playful, and surprisingly easy to wear: Color Block Sweaters.


What Is the Color Block Sweater Trend?

Color blocking is all about combining contrasting or complementary colors in one garment for a striking visual effect. The look first gained popularity in the 1960s and is making a strong comeback for Fall/Winter 2025. Whether it’s bold geometric patterns or subtle tone-on-tone pairings, color block sweaters bring instant energy and polish to your wardrobe.

At Fashion Crossroads, we’re loving the fresh, modern takes from Charlie B and Tribal Sportswear. These sweaters balance vibrant colors with wearable silhouettes — perfect for professional women who want their outfits to feel both current and appropriate for work.


Styling Tips from Last Night’s Wardrobing Live

During the live video, I showed how to take a color block sweater from “just trendy” to truly wearable by focusing on smart styling and thoughtful coordination.

1. Mix Patterns with Purpose

Pairing a color block sweater with a patterned blouse or slack adds depth and personality — as long as the pieces share a common color. For example, if your sweater features cream, black, and camel tones, choose a print that repeats at least one of those shades. This keeps your look cohesive, not chaotic.

2. Anchor Your Outfit with a Solid

If you’re mixing prints or patterns, keep the third piece — whether it’s your pant, blazer, or scarf — solid. This creates visual balance and keeps your outfit from feeling overwhelming.

3. Keep Accessories Clean and Simple

Let the sweater be the star! When working with bold color blocking, opt for understated shoes, handbags, and jewelry. Think classic loafers, neutral ankle boots, or a structured black purse. These pieces ground your outfit while keeping the focus where it belongs — on your statement sweater.


Shop the Looks from the Show

All the pieces featured in this episode — including our favorite color block sweaters from Charlie B and Tribal Sportswear — are available now in Kyleen’s Picks Collection. These are hand-selected looks that reflect the very trends and styling advice I share each week in Wednesday Wardrobing.


Watch the Replay on YouTube

Missed the live show? Don’t worry! You can catch the full replay on our Wednesday Wardrobing playlist on YouTube. There, you’ll find all of this month’s episodes — including how to style Barrel Leg Jeans, master Layering, and make Wide Leg Cropped Pants work for your body type.


Join Us Next Wednesday!

If you love learning how to dress with confidence and style, tune in every Wednesday at 6 p.m. MST on Facebook for a fresh topic, live fashion demos, and practical styling tips you can actually use.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram so you never miss a live session — and so you can join the conversation in real time.

Because at Fashion Crossroads, dressing well isn’t about chasing trends — it’s about finding pieces that fit, flatter, and feel like you.

Subtle Sparkle & Sophisticated Shine – The Autumn Elegance Collection


As the air turns crisp and fall fashion begins to take center stage, we’re drawn to pieces that bring a quiet kind of luxury — styles that shimmer softly, complement rich autumn hues, and feel just as beautiful for a cozy evening out as they do for a special occasion.


When elegance is what you want and #whenhowyoulookmatters, look no further than our figure flattering dresses from Maggy London. Our Abstract Floral Dress offers an autumn inspired, below the knee, A-line silhouette that moves gracefully. This dress is perfect for professional settings and any event that needs a extra bit of elegance. Style it with our silky soft Pashmina in either rusty red or black for that added layer of sophistication. Finish the look with our HOBO Sable, a genuine leather clutch in Merlot that is designed to hang in the crux of your elbow for hands free convenience.

If you want a bit of holiday, our Maggy London Short Sleeve Draped Waist Dress makes a lovely choice with its teal hammered satin fabric and elegant waist detailing. This dress is ideal for office wear, events, holidays or when you want refined style with metallic interest. Finish the look with our Kendra Scott Bella Collection in gold for an added touch of sparkle.

If you are looking for an elevated evening event, our Maggy London V-Neck Dress with a Ruche Waist, has lovely and sheer long sleeves with a flocked lace pattern. The waist flatters the figure, and the dress is fully lined with an elegant longer skirt. Finish your look with our Kendra Scott Figaro Collection in Emerald Illusion, for the perfect touch of emerald green.

Lastly, our Maggy London Long Sleeve Dress With Pearl and Rhinestone Neck is perfect for wedding guest attire, charity galas or milestone celebrations. The swooped neckline sets off your neck and face, drawing attention upward, and it is perfect with our Kendra Scott Bella Collection in Rhodium to complete the look.

Our Autumn Elegance Collection is a curated selection that features these artfully tailored dresses, graceful accessories, and jewelry that glows with understated sophistication — including one of our favorite highlights, the Kendra Scott Bella Pendant Necklace in Rhodium and White CZ.

A Necklace that Speaks in Sparkle

With its clean lines and luminous sparkle, the Kendra Scott Bella Pendant Necklace adds an effortless touch of grace to any look. Crafted in Rhodium over Brass and finished with White Cubic Zirconia, it shines with just the right balance of brilliance and refinement. The delicate 16″ chain with a 3″ extender ensures a comfortable, adjustable fit, while the petite 0.46″L x 0.45″W pendant adds subtle radiance without overpowering your outfit.

Each piece in the Bella Collection is designed to complement one another beautifully — from the Bella Stud Earrings in Rhodium and White CZ to the Bella Cuff Bracelet. Together, they create a polished look that transitions seamlessly from workday sophistication to evening charm.

Styling Inspiration

We love our Kendra Scott Emerald Illusion collection for the perfect touch of emerald green this season. Pair it with long sleeves, clean silhouettes, and rich seasonal tones. Whether you’re attending a fall wedding, a dinner celebration, or simply want to add sparkle to your weekday wardrobe, the Kendra Scott Bella Collection and Emerald Illusion Collection bring that elevated finishing touch every time.

Explore these pieces and more when you shop the Autumn Elegance Collection — a celebration of refined sparkle, feminine silhouettes, and the kind of confidence that never goes out of style.

🛍️ Shop the entire Autumn Elegance Collection here. See our live collection launch video of these pieces here.

📚 From the Classroom to the Boutique: How My Book Club Brought Me Back to My First Love

I knew I wanted to be an English teacher when I was a junior in high school. With singular focus, I pursued that dream — earning a B.A. in English, a M.Ed. in Secondary English Education, and an M.A. in English. My path seemed clear.

But then something unexpected happened — I didn’t get the job.

While I waited for the next opportunity, I worked as an adjunct professor in the English Department at Casper College and helped my mom part-time at her clothing store. Around that time, my parents purchased the Coral West building next door, renovated it, and opened a discount clothing store on the lower level. My mom needed a manager, and I needed steady work.

Fast forward twenty-five years, and here I am — a second-generation women’s clothing boutique owner in Casper, Wyoming who never became an English teacher.

Even though my career took a different turn, I still use my English background every single day — through writing, communication, and storytelling. But there was always something missing: my deep love for literature and the joy of discussing books with others.

A few years ago, I decided to do something about that — and started a book club.

Our very first book was Silas Marner — I thought we’d stick to the classics. But over time, this incredible group of women has opened my world to new authors, genres, and perspectives. Some of my favorites have been The Covenant of Water, Hello Beautiful, and A Gentleman in Moscow.

And although I was hesitant, they even convinced me to dive into grittier reads like The Women and Lilac Girls. Right now, I’m finishing my very first Stephen King novel, The Talisman — and loving it more than I ever expected.

Even with a busy schedule, I look forward to our book club nights — filled with wine, snacks, and thoughtful conversation that challenges me to think beyond my usual comfort zone.

It’s a wonderful reminder that while life doesn’t always go according to plan, it often leads us somewhere even more meaningful. In my case, that path led from the classroom to the boutique — and eventually, back to the books that started it all.

Wednesday Wardrobing: How To Style Cropped Wide Leg Pants

When you style the cropped wide leg trend correctly, it feels chic, fresh and modern

💫 Get The Right Length

The wide leg cropped pant trend can feel intimidating, especially if you’re petite—but mastering the right pant length makes all the difference. For cropped wide leg styles, aim for a hem that hits about one inch above your ankle bone, allowing just a touch of skin to show. This creates balance and highlights your shoe choice beautifully.

👉 Petite women should opt for petite wide leg pants to ensure the proportion and crop hit perfectly at the ankle.

👉 Taller women have more flexibility, but length is still critical. If the crop is too long, the pants will look unintentionally short. The goal is to keep that sleek, tailored line that defines the trend.


👚 Choose The Right Top

Because wide leg pants add volume at the bottom, pairing them with a fitted or cropped top keeps your look balanced and polished. To create a flattering silhouette, focus on defining your waistline.

Try these options from The Tailored Season Collection:
Body suits — like our She + Sky Mock Neck Bodysuit — for a sleek, tucked-in look.
Tight-fitting tanks — such as our Niki Biki Tanks — for layering under blazers or vests.
Cropped tops — like our Blu Pepper Cable Knit Cropped Vest — that hit perfectly at the waist.
Fitted blouses — like our Foxcroft button-downs — tied at the waist for a tailored finish.

This is also the perfect trend to show off a statement belt. It draws the eye to your waist and adds that polished, modern fall fashion touch.


🧥 Choose The Right Layer

Fall is made for layering, and wide leg cropped pants can still look cozy, chic, and put-together when styled the right way. To do this, keep your layers fitted or cropped to maintain balance and shape.

Some of our favorite layering options include:
🖤 Cropped sweater vests — like our Cable Knit Sweater Vest from Blu Pepper
🖤 Fitted blazers — try our Velvet Blazer from Liverpool for a rich seasonal texture
🖤 Cropped denim jackets — a great choice for casual days

If you choose a longer blazer, make sure it hits at the top of the widest part of your hip and defines your waist. Keeping proportions in check ensures you look streamlined and modern, not boxy.


👢 Choose The Right Shoe

Since cropped pants are meant to show a little ankle, the right shoe completes your outfit. Try:
👢 Low-shaft booties or cowboy boots — for a bit of heel and western-inspired style.
🩰 Ballet flats, loafers, or oxfords — for an on-trend, polished look.
❄️ When the weather turns cold, reach for 3/4-length fitted boots that cover your ankle but hug the calf closely for a sleek finish.


🎥 Watch the Live Video

Want to see how to put these looks together in real life?
👗 Watch my Wednesday Wardrobing live video: Wearing The Trends — Styling The Wide Leg Cropped Pant.

I’ll walk you through how to make this chic, fresh, and modern fall trend work for you—whether you’re 30 or 60, 5’2 or 5’10!

While you’re visiting our YouTube channel, be sure to explore my other Wednesday Wardrobing videos and hit subscribe so you don’t miss future style tips and trend talks.


If you are ready to try this trend, you will definitely want to check out this week’s Kyleen’s Picks Collection, where I feature them!

A Tailored Season – Modern, Tailored, And Career

🌑 Introducing A Tailored Season Collection — Tailored Sophistication

The A Tailored Season Collection has arrived, and it’s redefining fall fashion with a perfect balance of sophistication, tailoring, and career ready. This capsule brings together classic neutrals in Tan, Black, and Grey—the basic building blocks of any great career wardrobe.

Every piece in this stunning collection was chosen for its modern styling and ease of layering, featuring color block sweaters, wrinkle-resistant cotton blouses, and modern, wide leg trousers that make getting dressed simple, stylish, and smart. The pieces mix and match effortlessly to maximize the collection. To see just some of the potential pairings, watch our Collection Launch Video.


💙 What You’ll Find in the Collection

Charlie B Color Block V Neck Sweaters in two shades
Your everyday essential, pair these over our crisp collared Foxcroft blouses to add a touch of sophistication.

Foxcroft 100% Cotton Wrinkle Free Blouses
Breathable, tailored, and effortless, these blouses can be machine washed and dryed and will need little to no ironing.

She & Sky Tie Front Menswear Vest
A classic re-imagined with the season’s bow trend, this menswear vest is tailored and feminine.

She & Sky Sweater Vest With Gold Buttons
Ribbed knit with detail stitching makes this v-neck vest structured and tailored

She & Sky Wide Leg Trousers
With a high waist and elastic back, these 28 inch inseam wide leg trousers work perfectly for petites or as a cropped style for taller women.

Ann Taylor Pencil Skirt
A textured classic in grey and black, this pencil skirt fits your curves with the perfect just above the knee length.


Why We Love This Collection

The A Tailored Season Collection is more than a seasonal drop—it’s a foundation for modern, wearable career wear.

Each piece can be mixed, matched, and layered for countless outfit combinations. Whether you’re dressing for work or travel, this collection delivers the right balance of figure flattering silhouettes and sophistication.

These designs are also made with light weight, easy to match styles, meaning they will work into your existing wardrobe. Because we have mixed some of our favorite brands, these looks offer uniqueness that is truly boutique worthy —and ones you won’t find any where else.


🛍 Style Inspiration

Try pairing the She & Sky Wide Leg Trousers with the Charlie B Color Block Sweaters and layer it over the Foxcroft Wrinkle Free Cotton Blouses, for a look that’s polished yet relaxed.
For a more feminine style, opt for the Ann Taylor Pencil Skirt with the She & Sky Sweater Vest With God Buttons—an ensemble that was made for board room presentations.

Add the Kedzie Bella Vegan Leather Crossbody in one of three colors , and our Abbie earring from Kendra Scott to complete your outfit with a touch of understated luxury.


💻 Shop the A Tailored Season Collection

Discover your next signature look and experience the ease of Charlie B style and She & Sky design.
Shop the full A Tailored Season Collection here or visit us in-store for personalized styling advice. As a boutique we have limited qualities, and we are sure these will go fast!

We’re happy to partner with our local influencer Prairie Wife In Heels, as our guest model for this collection. If you want to see Cathy’s take on this collection, be sure to watch our Collection Launch video.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, and TikTok for weekly collection launches, styling videos, and exclusive looks.

How To Style The Layering Trend This Season

A woman in a stylish black outfit, standing near a brick wall and a metal siding. She is holding a gray handbag and wearing high heels, with a relaxed pose against a metal railing.

Talking Trends: Let’s Talk Layers

It’s time to talk layers! 🍂
This week on Wednesday Wardrobing Live, I’ll be showing you how to master the layering trend — from dressy to casual and everything in between. Whether you’re reaching for a blazer, plaid shirt, sweatshirt, or vest, the key is to mix textures, proportions, and styles for looks that feel fresh, intentional, and uniquely you.


Blazers: From Structured to Oversized

Let’s start with blazers, one of fall’s most versatile pieces.

The She & Sky Tweed Blazer

This piece has that “wearing your boyfriend’s jacket” vibe — relaxed, oversized, and effortlessly stylish. The warm camel tweed makes it perfect for pairing with earthy tones.

Here’s how I’ll be styling it on the live show:

  • Over our Blu Pepper Plaid Boxy Shirt for a fun, unexpected twist
  • Layered with our She & Sky Sweater Vest in ivory for a polished, office-ready look
  • Combined with our Democracy Edge Tipped Shirt and She & Sky Tie Front Menswear Vest in black for a layered menswear-inspired outfit
  • Thrown over our Easel Wild West Sweatshirt for that cool, casual “dressed-down blazer” vibe

The Liverpool Velvet Blazer

On the other end of the spectrum, our Liverpool Velvet Blazer offers a fitted, more tailored silhouette. I’ll show it styled two ways:

  • Layered over our Blu Pepper Plaid Blouse for a smart casual combo
  • Dressed up with our She & Sky Pintuck Tie Front Blouse for an elegant, evening-ready outfit

Layering Vests: From Corduroy to Menswear

Vests are another big part of this trend — and this season, they’re everywhere. I’ll be showcasing a printed corduroy vest, styled over an ivory collared sweater and finished with our Liverpool Denim Jacket. The combination of textures gives dimension and interest to your outfit.

Menswear-inspired vests are also making a strong return. They can easily be worn under or over shirts, or even paired with casual pieces like graphic tees or sweatshirts for a fresh contrast.


The Secret to Layering Success

Getting creative is the real secret here — don’t limit yourself to only two layers.
Play with opposites: pair a structured blazer with a laid-back hoodie or a dressy vest over a casual flannel.

Layered looks also pair perfectly with a slim thigh bootcut jean. Avoid looser styles through the thigh — they can make the overall silhouette appear bulky or unpolished.

The beauty of this trend is its versatility. You can:

  • Dress it up for the office
  • Dress it down for the weekend
  • Maximize your wardrobe by mixing these layers with pieces you already own

Watch the Live Replay

You’ll also find the full post on our Facebook page, so you can revisit the looks and get inspired for your own fall outfits. You can also watch on our YouTube Channel!

Black Pearl Chic Collection

🌑 Introducing the Black Pearl Chic Collection — Sophisticated Style for Fall and Travel

The Black Pearl Chic Collection has arrived, and it’s redefining fall fashion with a perfect balance of sophistication, versatility, and modern polish. This capsule brings together deep, moody hues of Black Pearl, Lake Blue, and Midnight Purple—each shade designed to move seamlessly from weekday wear to weekend leisure.

Every piece in this stunning collection was chosen for its effortless pairing potential and travel-friendly quality, featuring flattering silhouettes, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and timeless textures that make getting dressed simple, stylish, and smart. The pieces mix and match effortlessly to maximize the collection. To see just some of the potential pairings, watch our Collection Launch Video.


💙 What You’ll Find in the Collection

Sympli Go To Classic Tee in Lake Blue and Black Pearl
Your everyday essential, designed in Sympli’s signature soft jersey knit for all-day comfort and style.

Sympli Pop Fabric Tops in Lake and Black Pearl
Textured, lightweight, and beautifully detailed—these tops add subtle dimension and a touch of refined charm.

Sympli Hepburn Ankle Pant in Black Pearl
A timeless favorite for every silhouette, made to flatter while maintaining unmatched comfort.

Sympli Lux Narrow Midi Pant Black
Crafted in lightweight Ponte fabric, this pant moves beautifully and feels amazing—ideal for travel or professional days.

Habitat Express Travel Jacket in Midnight Purple
With an artistic back pleat and modern structure, this jacket delivers polished sophistication with a touch of drama.

Sympli Barely Kimono in Seascape Mesh Fabric
A delicate open-front layer featuring a dreamy black and gray print, perfect for transitioning from day to night.


✨ Why We Love This Collection

The Black Pearl Chic Collection is more than a seasonal drop—it’s a foundation for modern, wearable elegance.


Each piece can be mixed, matched, and layered for countless outfit combinations. Whether you’re dressing for work, travel, or an evening out, this collection delivers the right balance of comfort and sophistication.

These designs are also made with easy-care, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, meaning they travel as beautifully as they wear. Each item reflects our love for Sympli’s Canadian craftsmanship and Habitat’s artistic edge—a blend that makes this collection stand out.


🛍 Style Inspiration

Try pairing the Sympli Hepburn Pant with the Sympli Go To Classic Tee in Lake Blue and top it with the Habitat Express Travel Jacket for a look that’s polished yet relaxed.
For a lighter layer, opt for the Sympli Barely Kimono with the Sympli Lux Narrow Midi Pant—an ensemble that transitions effortlessly from brunch to an evening gathering.

Add the HOBO Mila Wallet Crossbody, our Embroidered Scarves, and our Gemelli and Kendra Scott jewelry to complete your outfit with a touch of understated luxury.


💻 Shop the Black Pearl Chic Collection

Discover your next signature look and experience the ease of Sympli style and Habitat design.
Shop the full Black Pearl Chic Collection here or visit us in-store for personalized styling advice. As a boutique we have limited qualities, and we are sure these will go fast!

Purchase a Sympli item in store or online any time this week, and get one entry for each Sympli item purchased to win our FREE Sympli top drawing! We will announce the winner on Facebook at the end of the day on Saturday.

Join us for our Sympli Trunk Show on Saturday, October 18th to see the Spring 2026 Sympli samples and place special orders!

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, and TikTok for weekly collection launches, styling videos, and exclusive looks.

How To Style The Barrel Leg Jean Trend

Wednesday Wardrobing – Wearing The Trends

If you’ve been scrolling fashion feeds lately, you’ve probably noticed a new denim silhouette showing up everywhere — the barrel leg jean. This style might look a little unfamiliar at first, but once you understand its shape and how to style it, it’s easy to see why it’s becoming one of the most talked-about denim trends of the season.


What Are Barrel Leg Jeans?

The name says it all — the shape mimics that of a barrel: narrow at the top and bottom, fuller through the middle. Most barrel leg pants have a straight leg opening and extra room through the thigh and knee area. Depending on how wide the leg is cut, the look can range from softly slouchy to intentionally voluminous.

Some fashion lovers like to cuff the hem for that slightly undone, “I care, but I really don’t care” vibe that makes this trend so wearable.


A Little Style History

Barrel leg jeans are a modern evolution of earlier styles — think 1980s “mom jeans” meets 1990s relaxed fits, reimagined for today’s structured, tailored aesthetic. The shape feels current but gives a quiet nod to vintage utility styles that celebrated comfort and movement.


How We’re Styling the Trend

This week on Wednesday Wardrobing, I’m diving into this silhouette and showing three ways to wear the barrel leg look — from knit and casual to denim and elevated. Here’s a sneak peek at what I’ll be featuring tonight!

This look is our non barrel leg, barrel leg jean from Democracy for those who want to try the trend without going full in. You can grab this look here:

Look One: J.O.A Knit Barrel Leg Pant

From J.O.A, a division of Blu Pepper, these coffee-colored knit barrel leg pants are an easy introduction to the trend. They feature an elastic waist, two front cargo-style pockets, and two back pockets. The main fabric is a textured, stretchy knit that’s comfy yet polished, while the pockets are made from smooth cotton for contrast.

Since these pants have an elevated sweatpant feel, I’ve styled them with a cropped sweater with ruched sleeves and a quilted vest in brown. These layers dress up the pants just enough, keeping the look relaxed but refined — perfect for those casual fall days when you want to look put-together but comfortable.


👖 Look Two: Democracy Barrel Leg Jean

Next up is the Democracy Barrel Leg Jean, which brings a dose of retro cool to the mix. The medium blue wash with light distressing gives it that 80’s-inspired feel, and each leg features three darts along the side for added detail and shaping. Like all Democracy jeans, it includes their signature Absolution® technology — a tummy control panel and no-gap waistband for a smooth, flattering fit.

I’ve paired this jean with a cropped bubble hem top, also from Democracy. The shorter top length balances the fullness of the barrel leg, creating a flattering proportion that works on all body types.


🩶 Look Three: The “Non-Barrel” Barrel Leg

For those who want to try the trend without fully committing, this last option is for you. This jean has seaming details that mimic a barrel shape but is technically a straight leg. It gives you the look without the volume — perfect if you prefer something more subtle.

To balance the silhouette, I’ve added a cropped sweater vest with bows layered over a soft striped shirt that can be tucked in. The combination feels playful yet polished — a great mix for transitioning into fall.


Styling Tips for Barrel Leg Jeans

Because barrel leg jeans are fuller through the leg, it’s important to balance your outfit with a more fitted or cropped top. If your top is too loose or long, the proportions can overwhelm your frame and make the outfit appear boxy.

For shoes, go with chunkier-soled boots or loafers. The added weight on the bottom balances out the wider silhouette — especially if you like to cuff your jeans.


Watch It Live: Wednesday Wardrobing

Want to see these outfits in motion? Join me live tonight at 6 p.m. MST for Wednesday Wardrobing on our Fashion Crossroads Facebook Page or in our VIP Facebook Group, Fashion Crossroads Fashionistas.

This month’s Wednesday Wardrobing series, “Wearing the Trends,” covers key fall looks each week:

  • October 8: Barrel Leg Jeans
  • October 15: How to Style the Season’s Layers
  • October 22: Wide Leg Cropped Pants
  • October 29: Color Block Sweaters

Can’t make it live? Catch all past Wednesday Wardrobing videos on our YouTube Channel in the Wednesday Wardrobing playlist.


Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a denim devotee or a comfort-first dresser, the barrel leg trend offers the perfect mix of structure and ease. It’s fashion-forward without being fussy — and that’s a balance I’ll always love.

So tell me — are you ready to give barrel leg jeans a try?