Are you wondering how to wear a long cardigan and make it look effortlessly chic? Long cardigans are incredibly versatile pieces that can elevate any outfit, whether you’re going for a casual look or dressing up for a night out.
In this post, I’ll share 14 stylish outfit ideas that will show you exactly how to style a long cardigan for any occasion. From cozy casual to sleek and sophisticated, these looks will inspire you to make the most of this wardrobe staple.
Keep reading to discover how to transform your outfits with the perfect long cardigan!
How to Style a Long Cardigan
1. Colorful Cardigan with Black Outfit
One of my favorite ways to style a long cardigan is by pairing a vibrant, colorful piece with an all-black ensemble. For this look, try a colorful striped knit long cardigan over a black top and black leather pants.
The contrast between the playful cardigan and the sleek black outfit creates a perfect balance. Finish off the look with white sneakers for a casual yet put-together vibe.
I love how the colorful cardigan adds a pop of personality to an otherwise monochromatic outfit. It’s a great way to brighten up your look, especially during colder months when we tend to reach for darker colors.
2. All-Black Everything
If you’re a fan of the classic all-black look, you’ll love this sophisticated outfit idea. Start with a long black cardigan and layer it over a bow-tie blouse for a touch of elegance.
Pair these with wide-leg trousers to create a sleek silhouette. To complete the look, add T-strap sandals and a black handbag.
This ensemble is perfect for those days when you want to look polished and put-together without much effort. The long cardigan adds an extra layer of sophistication to the already chic all-black outfit.
3. Cozy Chic with a Chunky Scarf
For those chilly days when you want to stay warm and stylish, try this cozy outfit idea. Start with a beige long cardigan and layer it over a white top and light-colored pants.
Add a chunky knit scarf and a white knit hat for extra warmth and texture. Finish the look with a beige handbag to tie everything together.
I love how this outfit combines comfort and style. The chunky scarf adds visual interest and keeps you warm, while the long cardigan provides an elegant silhouette.
4. Teal Cardigan Over a Little Black Dress
Here’s a great way to transition your favorite little black dress into cooler weather. Layer a teal long cardigan over a black dress for a pop of color. Add black tights and black ankle boots to complete the look.
This outfit is perfect for those in-between seasons when you’re not quite ready to put away your dresses but need a little extra warmth. The teal cardigan adds a beautiful contrast to the black dress and creates a stylish, layered look.
5. Cable Knit Cardigan with Pleated Skirt
For a preppy and polished look, try pairing a black cable knit long cardigan with a turtleneck and a pleated skirt. This combination creates a classic, timeless outfit that’s perfect for work or a lunch date.
I love how the texture of the cable knit cardigan adds depth to the outfit, while the pleated skirt brings a touch of femininity. It’s a great way to style a long cardigan for a more dressed-up occasion.
6. Casual Cool with Striped Cardigan
For a laid-back yet stylish look, pair a striped long cardigan with a cropped turtleneck top and light wash denim jeans. This outfit is perfect for running errands or meeting friends for coffee.
The striped cardigan adds visual interest to the simple base outfit, creating a look that’s effortlessly cool. It’s a great example of how to wear a long cardigan in a casual, everyday setting.
7. Crochet Cardigan for a Breezy Look
Create a light and airy outfit by pairing a light blue crochet long cardigan with a white button-up shirt and white wide-leg pants. Finish the look with white sneakers for a fresh, summery vibe.
I love how the crochet texture of the cardigan adds a bohemian touch to this crisp white outfit. It’s perfect for a beach vacation or a sunny day in the city.
8. Long Cardigan Over a Maxi Dress
Here’s a great way to extend the life of your summer maxi dresses into fall. Layer a dark green long ribbed cardigan over a tropical print maxi dress and add white sneakers for a comfortable yet stylish look.
This outfit is a perfect example of how to transition your wardrobe between seasons. The long cardigan adds warmth and creates a beautiful contrast with the vibrant print of the dress.
9. Layered Look with Plaid Shirt
For a trendy layered look, start with a white ribbed long cardigan and layer it over an open plaid button-up shirt. Wear a white tank top underneath and pair with light wash jeans.
Complete the outfit with brown ankle boots, a brown crossbody bag, and oversized sunglasses.
I love how this outfit combines different textures and patterns to create a stylish, multi-dimensional look. It’s a great way to show off your layering skills and stay warm in style.
10. Layer, Layer, and Layer Some More
Take layering to the next level with this cozy outfit idea. Start with a long cardigan and layer it over a top and jeans. Add a patterned fringed scarf for extra warmth and visual interest. Finish the look with oversized sunglasses for a touch of glamour.
This outfit is perfect for those chilly days when you want to stay warm without sacrificing style. The multiple layers create a rich, textured look that’s both comfortable and fashionable.
11. Playful Patterns and Colors
For a fun and quirky outfit, try pairing a green and white checkered long cardigan with a white tank top and distressed blue jeans. Add a pop of color with hot pink platform sandals and a playful accessory like a pineapple pendant necklace.
I love how this outfit combines unexpected colors and patterns to create a unique, eye-catching look. It’s a great way to express your personality through your clothing and have fun with fashion.
12. Boho Chic with Oversized Cardigan
Create a boho-inspired look by pairing a camel oversized knit cardigan with a white cropped sweater and black faux leather pants. Add a tan wide-brim fedora hat and black chunky ankle boots for extra style points. Finish the look with a black quilted crossbody bag.
This outfit is perfect for those who love a bohemian aesthetic but want to keep it modern and edgy. The mix of textures and the oversized cardigan create a relaxed yet stylish vibe.
13. Add a Pop of Color
Sometimes, the best way to style a long cardigan is to make it the star of the show. Try wearing a bright yellow long coat over a simple white top and light wash jeans. Finish the look with white sneakers for a casual, comfortable outfit.
I love how the bright yellow coat instantly elevates a basic jeans-and-tee combo. It’s a great way to add some sunshine to your outfit, especially on gloomy days.
14. Sleek and Sophisticated
For a more polished look, try a dark gray long cardigan over a white t-shirt and black wide-leg pants. Add black and white sneakers for a touch of casual comfort, and accessorize with black sunglasses and a black crossbody bag.
This outfit is perfect for those days when you want to look put-together without trying too hard. The long cardigan adds sophistication to the casual base outfit, creating a balanced and stylish look.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many ways to style a long cardigan for any occasion. Whether you prefer a casual, laid-back look or something more polished and sophisticated, a long cardigan can be the perfect addition to your outfit.
Some key takeaways for how to wear a long cardigan include:
- Use it as a statement piece by choosing bold colors or patterns
- Layer it over dresses to transition your summer wardrobe into fall
- Pair it with contrasting textures for added visual interest
- Use it to add sophistication to casual outfits
- Don’t be afraid to mix patterns and colors for a unique look
Remember, the key to styling a long cardigan is to have fun and experiment with different combinations. Try out these outfit ideas and see which ones work best for your personal style. With these tips in mind, you’ll be rocking your long cardigan with confidence in no time!