Drapey cardigans have been around since about 2008, but lately, there has been an influx of these floaty knits with extra fabric hanging down from the front.
Ashley Tisdale wears a Lucky Brand Aztec drapey wrap sweater at the Lucky Brand flagship Store Opening benefiting The Art of Elysium in Beverly Hills, California, on October 29, 2013 (Credit: Nikki Nelson/WENN)
That’s understandable as we’re early into the fall season, and we need lightweight clothing for layering, but how exactly do you wear a shapeless, formless, and draped cardigan that, more often than not, doesn’t even have buttons or a zipper to keep it closed?
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You must admit, the cardigans look good on the models from Shopbop, and the trend seems cute and harmless.
If you’re thinking of incorporating the drapey cardigan into your fall wardrobe but aren’t so sure about what to wear with it, then let this guide on how to wear the drapey cardigan in three ways help you out.
Styling Tip 1: Cinch Your Drapey Cardigan with a Chic Belt
Gather the front of your drapey cardigan and tie it with a belt. Not only will this help keep your cardigan closed, but it will also eliminate the unwanted bulk from the excess fabric.
Versatile Fashion: Experiment with Thin and Chunky Belts to Transform Your Drapey Cardigans
A thin belt and a chunkier belt will work with a drapey cardigan; make sure to choose one that’s sleek and minimally designed so that the belt doesn’t add any more bulk, which we already get a lot of from the cardigan.
Styling Tip 2: Create a Sleek Look by Overlapping Your Cardigan
If you find all that extra fabric is getting in your way too much, this is a look for you. Pull one side over the other, and secure your drapey cardigan with a pretty pin or a lovely brooch.
Elegance Meets Comfort: Secure Your Cardigan with a Stylish Pin for an Effortlessly Chic Ensemble
You can pin them together in the middle, or if the drape part is along the collar, pin the cardigan at the center and leave the extra fabric to fall.
Styling Tip 3: Embrace the Effortless Charm of an Open Drapey Cardigan
You can also wear your drapey cardigan the way it was made to be worn — just left open. What you do have to change though is what you wear with it.
Choose form-fitting tops, slim pants, skinny jeans, leggings — pretty much any clothing that hugs and closely fits your body.
Showcase Your Style: Drape Front Cardigans Paired with Slim-Fit Bottoms for a Balanced Silhouette
Finish your look with tall, sleek boots, strappy heels, or ballet flats. If you’ve got the length and the legs for it, you can wear chunkier footwear, such as booties or clogs.