Wheels & Dollbaby, an Australian brand that makes “clothes to snare a millionaire” and Dita Von Teese (pictured below), the modern queen of burlesque, collaborated to bring us this painfully pretty piece of knitwear.
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| Shop at wheelsanddollbaby.com |
I actually did resist this temptress for awhile, maybe because I didn’t find that the model on the W&DB site was “selling” it to me for the price it was. This is only because my body type is very different from hers and I couldn't envision it on myself. I feared that it may be ill-fitting, especially in the bust. However, after seeing it on many lovely customers in online pinup communities, I was then convinced that I needed the Dita cardigan in my life.
Each year, three colours are debuted. In 2013, the the colourways were red, soft pink and coral.
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| www.wheelsanddollbaby.com |
Of course, like my lipsticks, I chose red. It’s definitely a true red, bright and seductive.
The Dita cardigan has romantic and luxurious accents, such as the satin ruffled trim on the peter-pan collar and cuffs, velvet neck tie and covered buttons, and embroidered roses. It is light , but also warm, so will make a perfect staple for any season.
You can button up all the way demurely, or unbutton the top buttons for flirtatious keyhole effect. For a balance between the two looks, add a camisole underneath.
Do not hide this away, only to reveal its beauty on special occasions and events. This piece is very versatile. Along with the recommended pairing with a pencil skirt, it can also go with jeans and a multitude of other pants and skirt styles. You can wear it to parties, on a date, to work and even to the grocery store, as the designer herself demonstrates below. She adds a dose of glamour to her otherwise casual and simple black capri pants and ballet flats - totally easy for any gal, not just the Queen of "Teese".
This year’s colourways are “fairy floss pink (with white embroidery), belle blue (with pale pink embroidery)” and "wine red” (red with black embroidery). Although the pink and blue versions are pretty and reminiscent of Marie-Antoinette’s signature pallette, I simply don’t mix well with pastels and baby colours– so those are out of the question for me. I do recommend them for those whose complexions suit these hues , though.
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Buy at Dollhouse xoxo |
I was excited about the “wine red”; however, upon feedback from customers, it is apparently not very merlot-esque and more, well, an exact replica of last year’s red. I was a bit disappointed, but my credit card was relieved!
If you order directly from W&DB, your cardigan will be encased in a charming French Armoire illustrated box. I bought mine from another Australian retailer, so I did not get a coveted box.
I also caught onto them quite late, so I went on a mad search through several retailers, tips from other fans and ebay to find one in red. I think I bought the last one on earth at Just a Touch of Everything. The new colours are fully stocked (or can be preordered) now, but they will sell fast.
I’m not certain that I’ll be buying another anytime soon, due to my own personal budget. If this cardigan was released in an ivory with black accents, or a royal purple, then I may have to reconsider! But I do think it is a beautiful, unique and versatile investment piece. If possible, I do encourage every girl to have at least one Dita cardigan in her life ;)
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Store Opening!
www.rebelleromantique.com
DECEMBER 30, 2014: I'm excited to announce that I have just launched my online clothing store, Rebelle Romantique
- featuring clothing inspired by pinup, vintage and rock n' roll
glamour! I look forward to bringing in more pretties in the new year,
including handbags, cosmetics and more dresses, dresses, dresses! Please
like my facebook page for updates on new arrivals and promotions <3
