I am all about roses right now. Mostly that has manifested itself in coveting intricate rose embroidery or realistic fabric prints, but I think there’s still room in my overflowing wardrobe for a cuter, simplified form of this noble flower. Answering that call is Voodoo Vixen’s new Rose Applique cardigan.

Cardigan: Rose Applique cardigan C/O Voodoo Vixen
Bag: Lola Von Rose
Bangle: Red Fans cuff by Lucky Lou Shoes
Dress: Black Jade dress by Collectif

It’s been miserable weather of late with England deciding March doesn’t, in fact, count as spring, and that winter chills and even snow must continue, but this cardigan placates my frustrated craving to transition into my summertime florals. The black background and classic flower choice makes this a piece appropriate for wear year round, so it doesn’t feel stupid to be busting it out at this point in the season when the sky is so remarkably dreary. Plus, any item of clothing I don’t have to pack away at the change of seasons is a welcome winner for me.

The Rose Applique cardigan does exactly what it says on the tin (is that just a British phrase?) featuring sweet embroidered stem roses scattered across the entire front of the cardigan, even down the three-quarter sleeves. It’s made of a lovely soft medium knit fabric with a good dose of stretch, so it’s super comfortable to wear. It’s not a true cropped length that hits at the natural waist, but it is short enough that it will sit nicely over your vintage trousers or wiggle skirt, and will tuck into a swing skirt.

It has a round neckline and the shiny black buttons close through button loops, not holes, giving a more elegant finish than your standard buttons. It’s possible to leave the second and third buttons undone to get that keyhole effect, if you wish, as shown in the final picture above.

I tend to find Voodoo Vixens cardigans run larger than the rest of their items so I opted for this in an XL and it’s a great fit through the arms and bust, with room still in the waist. Considering my measurements put me between the XXL and Vixen Curve 1XL, that most likely means you can size down for this piece. The ribbed hem flat measures 36 inches with stretch to 38 inches before gaping, the waist 36.5 flat to 39 inches before gaping, and the bust is 39 flat to 45 inches before gaping. The armholes are 18 inches flat with stretch to 21 inches.

Overall, it’s a sweet piece that will help add interest to your plain coloured pieces, provide some extra warmth when the weather is founding wanting, and is appropriate for wear in almost all circumstances.

The Rose Applique Cardigan is available in sizes XS – 4XL from Voodoo Vixen, who ship internationally, as well as from select stockists around the world.