3 Elegant Ways to Style a Long Cardigan

As the weather starts to change, so does my mood. I’m itchy to start wearing darker and heavier clothes, but not too heavy because the weather is fickle!

So what do you wear? A long cardigan is a fabulous layering piece and a great starting point to transition your wardrobe into fall. Here are 3 modern ways to style a long cardigan to look casual but elegant.

1. Long Cardigan + Striped Top

An elegant-looking cardigan outfit begins with a great base. Last week, I wore this sporty black and white top with a gorgeous bright pink double-breasted blazer.

This week, I’m wearing the same top with a classy cobalt-blue ribbed cardigan.

cardigan | striped top | jeans |shoes (similar)

The blue cardigan (and the pink jacket) act as a “third piece,” elevating pants and a top to a more polished level. Since a cardigan is less structured and, therefore, less formal than a jacket, it gives an outfit a softer, more welcoming look.

This year, it’s trendy to combine bright colors with neutrals. This vivid blue and black/white mix is ideal for transitioning from summer into fall.

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cardigan | shirt | jeans | booties (similar)|

2. Long Cardigan + White Shirt

I love how intense and powerful the bold blue is for fall, yet it’s still clear and bright enough that it has the energy of summer. It feels halfway into fall -.This color is a bit of a tease!

I paired this chic white tunic shirt and long cardigan with my favorite dark-wash jeans. Then, I added some strappy black booties to get the season rolling. My suede and leather fabric-blocked tote adds some earthy fall texture, and the blue flowy print scarf ties all the colors together.

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3. Long Cardigan + Sleeveless Turtleneck

Another great way to style a long cardigan is to create a column of color. Take a sleeveless black turtleneck and pair it with black wide-leg pants. Slip this bright blue long cardigan over your all-black base for a long, lean look.