Red sweater to Festive Cardi Refashion

I know X'mas was a few months ago. But I have always wanted a piece of clothing that I can just throw on and it will say 'festive'. I'm not talking about a X'mas sweater with a moose on it (nothing wrong with that if that's what people like). I wanted something that says festive but still versatile enough for the office. Something simple and not too out there.

I thrifted this red sweater last month. It's a nice wool mix and I like the colour. But I'm not too fond of the metallic yarn embellishments on the shoulders.
So I got out the seam ripper, chalk and scissors, plus some ribbon and buttons in my stash.

1. First I measured the centre of the sweater and marked it with chalk.2. Then I sewed 2 ribbons as facings to the opening of the cardi before I slashed the centre of the sweater open. I prefer doing it this way just so that the cut sweater edges don't stretch out too much.
3. I folded the ribbons to the inside of the sweater and sewed them down. Then I added buttonholes and faux pearl buttons to make it a functional cardi. I also removed the metallic yarn from the shoulders.
4. I now have a functional cardi. I thought perhaps I could add a little more embellishment with the same red ribbon to make it just a bit more 'festive'.

I'm pretty happy with it. I think the pearl buttons are elegant. If I change my mind about the ribbon trim later, it's not too difficult to take it out. Can't wait to wear it!