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As is the case with many fashion questions, the answer to whether or not you can wear long sweaters with skirts is: it depends. The cut of a long sweater and skirt can make you look slim and sophisticated, or make you look like you're drowning in a sea of knitwear. Your body type is also a factor in how the long sweater and skirt combo will go over. The combination can work, but play with the colors, fabrics and cuts to figure out how to make it flatter your form.
Emphasize Contrasts
The fundamental step in pairing a long sweater with a skirt is to create contrast. This way, you don't look like a wall of fabric. Pair a lacy, thick sweater with a thicker skirt, or a quilted sweater with a sheer organza skirt. Style a slim pencil skirt with a flowing cape-style sweater. For those bitterly cold days, don a bulky knit sweater with a micro mini skirt and matching tights. Those tights must be pretty thick to ward off the chill.
Boyfriend Cardigans
The long and loose fit of a boyfriend cardigan works well with a slim-cut skirt. A cardigan in a thin weave hugs your shoulder and torso areas and neatly defines your form. Wear your cardigan open, and coordinate your top with your skirt to create a fluid, vertical line that visually elongates your body.
Body Shape
Long sweaters can be the enemy of many a body type. A long, skinny profile makes tall, thin women look even longer. A long, clingy knit will showcase every bump around her belly and hips. If you want to try the long sweater and skirt look, try pairing a sweater with a slightly flared hem with a form-fitting skirt. This can disguise your problem areas and create or emphasize an hourglass silhouette.
Styling Options
Some quick styling changes can make your long sweater more form-flattering. Belt your sweater with a skinny patent leather belt for a glam look that creates instant curves. If your sweater is beyond binding, tuck it into a pleated or flouncy skirt. If your sweater is long and thin, consider layering it under a bolero jacket or shrug for a color block effect.
Sweater as a Skirt
Sometimes, the best way to pull off a look is to edit it down to the essentials. In this case, a super-long sweater and skirt combination may look best when you lose the skirt entirely. Wear the long sweater like a dress over thick tights, leggings or jeggings. This look is winter-ready with a knit stocking cap and some tall boots. For a quirky take on this style, wear long leg warmers rather than tights.
