A long-buttoned cardigan is a wardrobe staple because you can wear it as both a dress and layering piece in different ways.
Check out how to wear a long cardigan in Autumn 2022 for 5 different events. Whether you’re going to work, treating yourself to a bit of retail therapy or enjoying a night out, formulate multiple outfits with this 1 item.
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Check out my favourite long cardigans below:
How to Wear a Long Cardigan to the Office
In 2022, wearing a blazer and heels isn’t the only way to create an office-appropriate outfit. The key to a smart-casual look is styling neutral pieces that don’t reveal too much skin.
To style a long cardigan for work, fully-button the cardigan and keep it simple with some smart loafers and a structured bag.
OUTFIT DETAILS
Loafers (similar) // Cardigan (similar) // Bag (similar)

How to Style a Long Cardigan Casually
Whether you’re relaxing at home, doing the food shop or working from home, you want a comfortable and easy outfit to wear. Cardigans are a great option here.
Style this look with either navy, black or white leggings, a comfortable top and trainers (or slippers if you’re relaxing at home in Autumn).
This is a simple but neutral long cardigan outfit to look stylish for every occasion.
OUTFIT DETAILS
Trainers // Leggings // Top (similar) // Cardigan (similar)

How to Style a Long Cardigan for Brunch
If you’re wondering how to wear a cardigan without looking old, opt for a classic colour pairing of white, navy and brown. Style this outfit with white jeans, a thick-ribbed tank top and opt for brown accessories: loafers, sunglasses and a bag to tie the look together.
I like to look smart but not too dressy for a morning event.
OUTFIT DETAILS
Loafers (similar) // Jeans // Vest Top // Cardigan (similar) // Bag

How to Wear a Long Cardigan for Afternoon Tea
I love a reason to get dressed up during the daytime. Whether you’re going out for afternoon tea, or a nice lunch date, dress up this cardigan with some fashionable boots and a pleated skirt for an elegant and sophisticated look.
If you’re styling a cardigan over a skirt, unless your cardigan is cropped, the skirt should be the same length or shorter than the cardigan for a polished and formulated look.
OUTFIT DETAILS
Black Boots (similar) // Midi Skirt (similar) // Top // Cardigan (similar)

How to Dress up a Long Cardigan for an Evening Out
A great way to wear a long cardigan if you’re short is to dress up with some heels. The subtle vertical stripes on this cardigan will elongate your silhouette.
For extra warmth, style it with a cropped jacket – a leather jacket always does the trick! To style a long cardigan with a coat, opt for one that reaches your hip, or is floor length, to balance the look.
OUTFIT DETAILS
Heels (similar) // Cardigan (similar) // Bag

If you’re looking for additional ways to style this item, check out these looks from Anna at LilyLoveAffair.
When it comes to deciding in the moment how to style an item, it can be tricky. My aim is to create a catalogue of wardrobe stables and ways to style them for 5 key events each season.