How to Look Chic in a Long Sleeve Black Sweater Dress

Less is more when looking fabulous, which is why a simple, long sleeve black sweater dress can be your cozy best friend come fall/winter. Here’s how to style one to look chic and modern.

1. Pick a Trending Style

A black sweater dress is always in style, but if you want to look fashion-forward, choose one with some trendy detail. For example, I bought this figure-skimming black sweater dress because I loved the sporty ribbed knit and the flattering front tie detail. Instead of a regular removable self-belt that you usually see on a sweater dress, this tie is part of the dress. It wraps around the front as if tying a sweater around your waist. This small detail makes the dress feel fresh and exciting. The longer midi length is also modern.

A front-tie sweater dress is a great way to highlight your waist, but if you are thicker in the middle and don’t like belts, you could try another new style: the straight sweater dress with puffy sleeves. It’s also trendy right now. Whichever you choose, a long sleeve black dress with a modern twist will instantly update your look.

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2. Wear Booties

You have probably worn shoes or tall boots with a black sweater dress before, but booties are hot now. I’m wearing Stretch booties with my long sleeve black sweater dress. See how it gives it a more modern, edgy look? You could also wear a suede bootie like this one with a stiffer shaft. It’s also elegant, and I love the thin, delicate heels on both, which are so feminine and ladylike.

3. Add a Modern Bag in a Pop of Color

Too much black can look like you are going to a funeral, so I like to add a bag with a pop of color to give my outfit a shot of energy. Color blocking is trendy right now, so I chose this Kate Spade Color block tote which is lively but classy. I’ve seen a lot of maroon and dark green bags lately, too, and I think they could look fabulous with black as well this fall!

4. Don’t Forget Shapewear

It takes confidence to wear a sweater dress because it follows the shape of your body and shows every little curve and bulge.

I don’t wear much Shapewear,  but it’s convenient when I’m wearing a sweater dress! My favorite is Spanx which does a great job of creating a smooth foundation. It makes a massive difference in the look of the dress. I prefer the Oncore Open bust Mid-thigh Body Shaper, but some gals like the Oncore High Waisted Mid-Thigh shorts. Oncore has more compression, but you can also get Thinstincts, which are lighter, and you may prefer depending on your preference. Shapewear makes a difference with a sweater dress like this.

5. Jewelry is a Must with a Long Sleeve Black Sweater Dress

Nothing lights up a black dress like a touch of gold or silver jewelry. I need it more than ever at my age because we tend to get washed out as we get older, and black can accentuate pale skin tones and wrinkles. A touch of bling does wonders to bring light to your face and turn down that high contrast that can be harsh.

My jewelry is by Dean Davidson. Dean makes the most modern, exciting jewelry inspired by his travels. You may have seen it on celebrities like JLo and Oprah, who are big fans. I wear the Manhattan Collection necklace and earrings with their relaxed New York Studio 54 vibe. You must check out his jewelry. It’s gorgeous. I’m addicted to it and love these earrings! 

The great thing about a look like this is that it is classic and chic. It can take you from the office to date night in the blink of an eye.

To shop for this fabulous look, click the shopping links below.

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