How to Wear a Long Cardigan: 4 Long Cardigan Outfit Ideas

A cardigan is a sweater with an open front, usually featuring buttons that can close the garment. Rather than pulling a cardigan over your head, you simply slip your arms into the sleeves. Cardigans often utilize a very fine knit, giving them a thin, lightweight feel that makes them a great layering piece.

Long cardigans fall anywhere from the mid-thigh to the ankle. Cardigans that fall below the knee are longline cardigans, while sweaters that reach your ankles are dusters or maxi cardigans.

These tips can help you create long cardigan outfits for various occasions.

1. 1. Opt for a skirt. You can create casual or professional cardigan looks with a skirt, depending on how you style your knitwear. Wear a mini skirt with a black cardigan and tights for a fun evening outfit. Style your cardigan with a V-neck shirt, and let the sweater drape over your shoulder. For a business casual outfit, swap your blazer for a chunky-knit cardigan, styling a button-down under the sweater, and pairing the look with a long pencil skirt and ankle boots.
2. 2. Pair your cardi with a dress. Styling a long cardigan with a dress is a great way to use your cardigan sweater throughout the seasons. Wear a cardigan over a lightweight cotton dress during hotter months, or style a thick cable-knit cardigan over a long sleeve sweater dress for a warm winter outfit.
3. 3. Style with leggings and a crop top. Contrast a loose, baggy cardigan with slim-fit leggings and a crop top. Wear a long cardigan, pair of leggings, and white sneakers for a comfy lounge look, or dress this outfit up with high boots and glam accessories for a date night. While standard black leggings match many colors and styles, play with textures by swapping in faux leather leggings.
4. 4. Wear a long cardi with a white tee and jeans. For a classic casual look, wear your long cardigan over a white T-shirt with a pair of skinny jeans or straight-leg jeans. Wear a white top with black jeans and a grey cardigan, or opt for a monochromatic combo with a white cardigan and jeans. Finish this stylish fall outfit with a pair of suede ankle booties or loafers.

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