How to Style a Black Cardigan


A black cardigan is one of those essential basic pieces that every woman needs in her wardrobe. But sometimes, because it is so basic, it tends to get overlooked, or we lack inspiration for how to style it. I’ve put together a selection of outfits to give you a fresh perspective on how you can wear a black cardigan. I’ve covered lots of different seasons and scenarios, so let’s jump on in!


How to style cardigan

Twisted

Add some excitement to getting dressed by twisting and knotting your cardi. A pair of red heels will add a pop of color and put a smile on your face.

Cardigan style

Off-the-shoulder

Don’t equate a cardigan with elegance? Time for a paradigm shift. Wear your cardigan off-the-shoulder for a look that is very elegant indeed.

Cardigan styling

Backwards

Break the rules by wearing the cardigan back to front. Voila! You have a sweater. Two pieces of clothing in one.

Easy cardigan style

Canadian tuxedo

Denim on denim is a surefire option when you want to play it casual. Turn up the sleeves of your jacket to reveal the cardigan underneath for an interesting layered look.

Preppy cardigan style

Minimal

Black + cream = what other colors do you need? To look like true beauty, pair your black cardigan with a flowy cream midi-skirt and some strappy heels.

Casual cardigan style

Lady like

Chic it up by knotting your cardi. Add some metallic pumps for an easy-to-wear yet gorgeous look.

Basic cardigan style

Preppy Parisienne

Did someone mention Paris? Quick, go dress like a Parisienne. Lace shorts and loafers are a must, and a silk scarf tied around the neck will add the pièce de résistance.

YSLSS2020 inspired

Wear your black cardigan on top of a white shirt for a YSL tuxedo-inspired look. Create after-party vibes by having a wide-open collar with your cuffs turned up.

Gossip Girl throwback

If you’re missing your favorite TV program, why not just recreate the look of the main character yourself?

French chic

Ooh, another French-inspired look. (You can tell I like France!) There are so many stylish elements in this look; I don’t know where to begin. Classy and sophisticated for strolling about town.

Classic

Nothing reads classic, like loafers and jeans. Complete the look with a striped tee and a cardie. To accessorize, add a silk scarf tied around the neck - the perfect understated accessory.

Edgy

Go for faux leather to create an edgy look and amp up the vibe by adding a black cardigan left hanging open at the bottom.

Tuxedo inspired

I’ve tied a ribbon sash around my neck to resemble a skinny tie in this feminine, tuxedo-inspired look. The shirt dress mimics an oversized men’s shirt, and the black cardi acts as the blazer.

Belted

Keep it light and easy with a reliable shirt dress. Introduce some color contrast with a black cardi on top and a belt to add definition to your silhouette. 

Faux waistcoat

You’ve heard all about black and white and black and cream, but do you know about the fantastic color combination that is black and tan? Let me introduce you to it. The black cardigan in this look, worn under the blazer, acts as a waistcoat of sorts.

Winter @work 

Go for a turtleneck top under a cardigan for an interesting layered look. A pair of beige suit pants will keep you looking classy, and you can finish the look off with a pair of black booties.

Work ready

Make getting dressed for work fun with a pair of flared trousers or a flared jumpsuit. Match them with a pair of pointed-toe heels to elongate your legs.

Belted 2.0

A bodycon sweater dress will keep you warm and snug on winter days. Make yourself even cozier with knee-high boots and a belted cardi on top. The two knit materials together make a faultless combination.

Fancy ballerina inspired

Just because you’re not a ballerina doesn’t mean you can’t dress like one! Go for a poofy ballerina skirt, jewel-encrusted belt, and a cardigan worn off the shoulder to achieve the look. Oh, and don’t forget your pointed-toe heels.


And there we have it. I’m sure you’ll agree that there are so many different ways to style a black cardigan, and if someone pressed me to come up with another twenty outfits, I don’t think I’d have too much difficulty doing so. As well as wearing the cardigan with different items of clothing, I’ve also shown you various ways in which you can style the cardigan itself by wearing it differently - either knotted, off-the-shoulder, or back to front. Have fun coming up with outfits of your own!

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