Styling Long Tank Top Cardigans: A Fashion Guide

Long cardigans are a versatile piece of clothing that can be worn in multiple ways. They are perfect for transitional weather, when it is too warm for a coat but too cold to go without an extra layer. Long cardigans can be styled with a skirt and loafers, with jeans and sneakers, with a dress, or with leather leggings and boots. They can be worn casually, or dressed up for the office. When it comes to what to wear underneath, a simple t-shirt or cami is a good option, but you can also wear a thin sweater or a long-sleeve top. It's important to pay attention to the fit and length of the cardigan to ensure it flatters your body type.

With a skirt and loafers

A long tank top cardigan can be a versatile piece to style, offering a sleek and comfortable look. When paired with a skirt and loafers, it creates a chic, relaxed outfit suitable for many occasions. Here's a guide to help you style this combination confidently.

For a smart-casual look, opt for a midi or maxi skirt. A pleated midi skirt will add a touch of elegance, while a flowy maxi skirt creates a more boho-chic vibe. Choose a skirt that contrasts with your cardigan in color and texture to create visual interest. For example, pair a light, airy skirt with a chunky-knit cardigan, or a structured, form-fitting skirt with a softer, fluid cardigan. When it comes to colors, earth tones like burgundy, forest green, or mustard yellow can work beautifully with loafers and a long tank top cardigan. Alternatively, go for a classic combination of a black skirt and a white cardigan, or vice versa, for a crisp, timeless look.

Balance the outfit by choosing a skirt that falls above or below the hemline of your cardigan. If you opt for a midi skirt, consider a small front tuck or a French tuck of your tank top to define your waist and showcase the skirt's silhouette. This also helps to elongate your legs. With a maxi skirt, you can play with proportions by leaving the cardigan untucked or doing a partial tuck to create a more relaxed, casual feel.

Loafers are a great choice of shoe to complete this outfit. They offer a polished yet comfortable finish. Try a pair of penny loafers or tasseled loafers for a traditional look, or opt for a modern twist with backless or platform loafers. Socks aren't necessary with loafers, but if it's chilly, go for a pair of invisible socks or a fun, colorful pair that peeks above the loafers.

To finish the look, consider adding a statement belt, a simple necklace, or some chunky bracelets. A small crossbody bag or a stylish backpack can also enhance the outfit. This combination of a long tank top cardigan, skirt, and loafers is a comfortable yet stylish choice for many occasions, from brunch with friends to a day at the office.

With a dress

Long cardigans are a versatile piece that can be worn in multiple ways with dresses. Here are some tips on how to style a long tank top cardigan with a dress:

• Choose a fitted dress: When wearing a long cardigan, opt for a more fitted dress underneath to create a balanced silhouette. Avoid overly flowy or loose dresses as they can make the overall outfit look bulky.
• Add a belt: To create a more defined waistline and add interest to the outfit, consider adding a belt. Wrap the belt around your dress and cardigan to accentuate your figure.
• Play with proportions: When wearing a long cardigan, the length of the dress matters. Experiment with different lengths, but as a general rule, try to keep the dress and cardigan close to the same length. This will create a streamlined look.
• Layer with a coat: In colder weather, you can layer your long cardigan with a coat. Just make sure the coat is slightly longer than the cardigan to avoid an awkward hanging effect.
• Choose complementary colours: When styling a long cardigan with a dress, consider the colour palette. You can go for a monochromatic look by choosing a cardigan in a similar colour family as the dress, or create contrast with complementary colours.
• Accessorise: Don't be afraid to add accessories to elevate the outfit. A statement necklace, scarf, or earrings can add a touch of glamour. You can also experiment with different types of footwear, from casual sneakers to dressy heels, depending on the occasion.
• Experiment with different dress styles: Long cardigans can be paired with various dress styles, from sweater dresses to midi and maxi dresses. Play around with different styles to find what suits you best.
• Pay attention to the fit: Make sure the cardigan fits well. If it's too oversized, it might overwhelm your frame. On the other hand, if it's too tight, it might restrict your movement. Opt for a size that allows for comfortable layering.

With jeans and sneakers

Long cardigans are a versatile piece that can be worn with jeans and sneakers in many different ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Keep it Casual

For a casual look, pair your long cardigan with a simple tee and jeans. A white tee is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with different colours or a graphic tee. Roll up the sleeves of your cardigan to add a little something extra to your outfit. Finish the look with a pair of white sneakers and you're good to go!

Add Some Edge

If you want to add a bit of edge to your outfit, swap out the tee for a black tank top or cami. This creates a more sleek and modern silhouette. For an extra touch of cool, opt for a pair of black or white snakeskin flats instead of sneakers. This look is perfect for running errands or grabbing brunch with friends.

Layer Up

Long cardigans are also great for layering. On colder days, try pairing your cardigan with a long-sleeve shirt or thin turtleneck underneath. Just make sure the sleeves aren't too puffy or detailed, as this can get bulky under a cardigan. Add your favourite pair of straight-leg or skinny jeans and some sleek black or brown knee-high boots. This look will keep you warm and stylish all day.

Accessorise

Don't be afraid to accessorise your long cardigan and jeans combo. A statement necklace or scarf can add a touch of glamour, while a belt can help define your waist and give your outfit some extra shape. When it comes to shoes, you can't go wrong with a pair of classic white sneakers, but feel free to mix it up with boots or flats as well.

Experiment with Colour

Long cardigans come in a variety of colours, so don't be afraid to experiment. A beige or camel-coloured cardigan is a versatile choice that will go with almost anything. But you can also try bolder colours like pink, purple, or olive green. If you're feeling really adventurous, try a cardigan with a fun pattern like polka dots or jacquard.

With an oversized shirt and leggings

If you want to wear a long tank top cardigan with an oversized shirt and leggings, here are some tips to help you style this outfit:

• Consider the weight of the cardigan: Opt for a cardigan made from a nice, heavy material that isn't too puffy to avoid looking bulky.
• Layer with a fitted top: Wear something fitted like a t-shirt, cami, or thin blouse underneath your oversized shirt. Avoid thick, bulky tops as they will add bulk to your frame.
• Create a waistline: Opt for high-waisted leggings and tuck your top in to define your waist and avoid looking shapeless.
• Choose the right cardigan length: Go for cardigans that hit mid-thigh or below. Cardigans that hit at the hip tend to draw attention to and add bulk to the hip area.
• Avoid baggy cardigans: While slouchy cardigans are trendy, they tend to add visual weight. Instead, opt for cardigans that are more fitted or size down in longer cardigans.
• Pay attention to sleeve width: Cardigans with narrower sleeves tend to be more flattering, especially if you carry extra weight in your arms.
• Consider the shoulder seam: Cardigans with shoulder seams that sit on the shoulder are generally more flattering than those with a drop shoulder.
• Opt for a scoop or V-neck top: Instead of wearing a turtleneck or crewneck top under your cardigan, go for a top with a more open neckline to show off your collarbones.
• Keep it fitted: Even if you're wearing an oversized shirt, make sure it's fitted rather than baggy to avoid looking frumpy.
• Play with proportions: If your cardigan is longer, consider wearing it with cropped leggings to create a sense of balance.
• Add a belt: If you feel like you're drowning in your cardigan, add a belt at your waist to give your outfit some structure and define your figure.
• Choose the right shoes: Heels or ankle boots can help elongate your silhouette, especially if you're concerned about looking short and stumpy. However, feel free to experiment with different shoe styles like sneakers, flats, or knee-high boots to find what works best for you.

With a sweater and winter boots

Long tank tops are versatile and can be worn in many ways during winters. Here are some tips on how you can style them with a sweater and winter boots:

Layering with a Sweater

Long tank tops can be worn over a sweater or a thin, fitted sweater can be worn over a long tank top. This will help you stay warm and cosy during winters. You can also layer a long cardigan over a turtleneck for maximum warmth.

Choosing the Right Sweater

When wearing a long tank top with a sweater, it is important to choose a form-fitting sweater that skims the body without clinging. This will help create a flattering silhouette and avoid looking frumpy. Avoid loose or baggy sweaters as they can add visual weight and bulk to your outfit.

Styling with Winter Boots

When pairing a long tank top and a sweater with winter boots, opt for fitted or skinny jeans that will tuck into the boots. This will help elongate your legs and create a proportional look. You can also wear an extra-long sweater over skinny jeans and winter boots for a casual, cosy outfit.

Adding Accessories

To complete your winter look, add a belt to your outfit. A belt can be wrapped around your waist to create a flattering silhouette and add interest to your ensemble. You can also accessorise with scarves, necklaces, or earrings to elevate your winter outfit.

Colour Coordination

When styling a long tank top with a sweater and winter boots, consider colour coordination. You can choose a neutral-coloured long tank top and pair it with a colourful sweater, or vice versa. This will create a stylish and put-together outfit. You can also play with different textures and patterns to add visual interest to your winter ensemble.

Frequently asked questions