Cheers to Friday, friends, and the end of the work week! It’s my birthday this weekend, so you know there are copious amounts of tacos on the agenda! As far as I’m concerned, it’s birth-week! Mr. SP is playing hookie Monday for my Yes Day (read about that birthday tradition here), and I’m hoping to stretch this power party out as long as possible. Or until that pesky Thanksgiving steals my glory. (Kidding. Kind of.)
Today I’m excited to bring you another Dressing Room Diaries, and this one is all about tunics! With the Fall (and eating) season finally upon us, we can now pull out the leggings. But I’m a firm believer that leggings aren’t pants, and thus it’s important to cover your lady bits, ladies!
I adore my leggings, but struggle to find cute tops that are long enough, while not completely overwhelming my frame. Well, we both got lucky, because not only did I find several great tunic options, but most are included in Nordstrom’s Fall Sale! Starting with my favorite of the bunch…this turtleneck sweater tunic.
Turtleneck Tunic (40% off!) | Tassel Necklace | Blackout Leggings | Boots | Bag
A touch a cashmere makes this sweater feel soft and luxe, without clinging to the body. It has a cute shirttail hem, and relaxed neck. I’m really tempted to grab another color, especially while it’s on sale!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS.
Turtleneck Tunic (40% off!) | Tassel Necklace
I’ve only owned this single pair of leggings for the past two years…and they still look and feel like brand new. They’re extra thick and opaque, so skin and lumps are concealed, and the wide waistband keeps them comfortably in place. They also wash and dry like a dream, with no pilling. Do you see why I don’t need another pair?!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.
As for shoes, I mostly stick with knee boots when it comes to wearing leggings, particularly black boots. They create such a long, flattering leg line…and who doesn’t want a long, flattering leg? These boots are exceptionally comfortable, with a low heel and extra cushion in the footbed.
Okay, now that you have the base foundation of my legging outfits, let’s talk tunics! I’ll start with this one so you can see the length and shape. Everyone has their own comfort zone as to where you like tunics to fall…I prefer them just below the widest part of my thigh, so I don’t cover too much leg, but also don’t risk flashing lady bits.
Turtleneck Tunic (40% off!) | Tassel Necklace | Blackout Leggings | Boots
This striped boatneck was my next favorite…I love the hem and soft cashmere blend. Plus it comes in 16 colors and stripes! The sweater doesn’t cling to the body, and is thick enough to wear alone, or layered over a collared shirt.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular XS.
Striped Tunic (30% off!) | Plaid Scarf | Blackout Leggings | Boots
Here it is sans scarf, so you can see the neckline and full shape. It’s a good one!
Striped Tunic (30% off!) | Blackout Leggings | Boots
This tunic is a bit longer, but has a high side slit to give it shape. The cowlneck is really loose and low, and does require a little finagling. The material is drapey and very lightweight (but not sheer). I’d probably layer a tank under to smooth things out.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a reg XS.
Cowlneck Side Slit Tunic | Blackout Leggings | Boots
Here it is in other colors, but also to compare the regular with petite sizing. The tan is a reg XS, and the pink a petite XS. I prefer the length of the petite, but it’s a little tight through the hips.
Fit Tip: If you’re under 5’5″, I’d go with petite sizing, but size up one. If you’re taller, go with your regular sizing. So a petite small would be best for me.
Cowlneck Side Slit Tunic | Blackout Leggings | Boots
This one has a similar shape, but the material is fleecy soft (similar to pajamas!). The neckline can be worn off the shoulder, but I stick with the cowlneck. The stair step hem makes it cute half-tucked into jeans, or worn out with leggings.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS.
Cowlneck Fleece Tunic | Blackout Leggings | Boots
Another cashmere blend, this sweater has a crewneck and high/low hem, which gives it a dressier feel. It’s also available in tons of colors.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing regular XS.
Cashmere Crewneck Tunic (30% off!) | Blackout Leggings | Boots
Same sweater, this time layered over a plaid collared shirt. I switched up the boots, too. (Remember this tip for making your legs look longer?!)
Plaid Shirt | Cashmere Crewneck Tunic | Blackout Leggings | Similar Boots
I’ve had this fleecy pullover for awhile, and it’s one of my faves with both jeans and leggings. I can’t believe with the number of stellar reviews, they haven’t added more colors after all these years! Actually, that’s probably a good thing since I already own it in both colors. It’s soft and drapey, and doesn’t cling to the body.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing my usual XS, but it does run large, so I pair it with a tank, a lace bralette, or cover the top with a scarf. They make it in XXS, but I wanted to keep the longer length.
Fleece V-Neck Pullover | Fringe Scarf (only $9!) | Lace Bralette | Blackout Leggings | Boots
This hooded tunic is too darling, but I think it’s better suited for tall girls. On me, it looks more a like a dress.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.
Hooded Long Tunic | Blackout Leggings | Boots
You could also go the poncho route with leggings. This one has a fun cowlneck and pockets, plus a heavy cotton material. It’s a little too much fabric for my frame, so I think it’s more for the tall or busty girls.
Fit Tip: It’s one-size.
Poncho | Striped Long Tee | Blackout Leggings | Boots
Okay, that’s it for pullovers…the other way I love to wear leggings is with long tees and cardigans. This cardigan is extra-long, with a super soft, almost fluffy material. It has a ribbed trim and pockets, and washes well. And even though the back covers the bum, it’s important to pair it with a long shirt that covers the front business. #knowwhatImsayin
Fit Tip: The cardigan runs large, I’m wearing an XXS. The tee is true, I’m in XS.
Leopard Scarf (under $25!) | Striped Long Tee | Long Cardigan | Blackout Leggings | Boots
This cardigan is shorter, and a more traditional ribbed sweater material. And I know you probably wish I’d show a different necklace…believe me, I tried! But this one just goes so beautifully with all the Fall colors!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in the cardigan.
Ribbed Cardigan | Striped Long Tee | Tassel Necklace | Fringe Scarf | Blackout Leggings | Boots
This boyfriend cardigan is even shorter, but still fully covers the bum. I paired it with a black tee for a streamlined look…and yes, the tassel necklace. #sorrynotsorry Sure I could wear brown or taupe boots, but do you see the long line all black creates?
Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS sweater.
Black Long Tee | Boyfriend Cardigan | Tassel Necklace | Blackout Leggings | Boots
And finally, how could we talk tunics and cardigans, and not mention this old go-to…the kitten cardi! (Named as such because the fleece lining feels like baby kittens.) Seriously, this button front cotton cardigan has a cult following, and for a good reason! It’s darling, so comfortable, always looks cute, and comes in tons of colors!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing petite XS, but it is shorter than my shirt in the back.
Fleece Wrap Cardigan (30% off!) | White Long Tee | Tassel Necklace | Blackout Leggings | Boots
Okay, I hope you’ve enjoyed this special Dressing Room Diaries, with more styled looks dedicated to tunics. All of these would make great Thanksgiving day outfit, too! Your belly will thank you to wear leggings!
So tell me, how do you wear your leggings…with long tunics or shorter top? Knee boots or short booties? And do you dedicate an entire month week to your birthday, as well? Happy weekend, lovebugs!
P.S. Be sure to check out Nordstrom’s huge Fall Sale…tons of sweaters, boots & bags. Even my leopard rug. But hurry, sale ends Sunday! Also, make sure you sign up here to receive my weekly newsletter it in your inbox tomorrow!
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*This post is created in collaboration with Nordstrom, but all clothing, styles, and lady bits concealing is my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors!*
Ah, it’s been so long since I’ve worn tunics. They’re truly so versatile for layering in the cooler weather! ❤
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Happy Birthday, Cassie!!
Thank you for spending your early mornings with me, for teaching me about decorating, fashion, travel [and packing] and style! You are my favorite Texas gal! Oh and my birthday is in February, and I DO celebrate the whole month — it’s known around here as FebruMARY or MARYgras!! Enjoy your birthweek!!
Mary
When someone requests tunics, Cassie delivers!
Oh, that medium grey cashmere crew neck choice is perfect on you w/your coloring. So many color/accessory options w/that shade.
Happiest of birthdays to you, worry about the aftermath later! : )
I prefer to wear my tops longer so these are all great choices. Happy b-day!
Design by Sydnee | 10 Fave Gifts to Give 💗
I wanted to ask you about the Carmel leather jacket. I just received mine and not sure about the doubled over zipper on the one side. Does it bother you? Does it bulge open when your wearing it? Just seems strange to me, wanted your thoughts. Thanks
Agree about tights and lady bits. Lol. But, check out athleta street tights. They have a little more going on that when you have a top that doesn’t cover completely you are fine. Some have zippers, back pockets, seems etc to make them look more pant like than tights. But love tunics too.
I wish I could get away with tunics……but alas, I have an hourglass figure (large hips and booty are just sticking out in tunics and my small waist is completely lost in them). Also I’m rather short (5’3) and with my short legs, I just look really small and chunky with tall boots and a long tunic. I always felt like this look is perfect on women with your frame (even better when they’re tall). And because it’s super trendy right now, I can’t find tight fitting, not oversized sweaters at a reasonable price anywhere 🙁 and that “tail” or slit in those trendy shirts……..it’s so not flattering on me…..I guess I’m stuck with my closet for yet another season!
I’m so happy you did this post. I hope it encourages many to wear longer tops over their leggings. When they wear a short top, it looks like they are wearing tights and forgot their skirt #badlook.
Happy Birthday, Cassie! Enjoy every minute of your Yes day.
Love all the looks, but especially that striped boatneck top!!!!!! Looks great with the leggings!
I can’t wait to try some of these tunics and am definitely getting those leggings! I wanted to ask about your Barrington bags. I am deciding between the check back with the monogram and the deer print. I want a bag to get me through the winter season. Do you have a preference on your bags? Which one may get more wear?
My birthday is next week on the 15th, and I love your Yes Day idea. I might have to try that on my husband!
On all pictures you look fantastic. It’s not matter of outfits but your smile.
Leggings are wrong period except for exercise. Tunic + leggings + boots = poor fashion. It looks awful on everyone. The same applies for high water pants + ankle boots — it doesn’t look good on anyone. The fact that you promote both looks…
To each their own, I suppose! Sorry this style wasn’t your cup of tea. xo
You have the perfect figure for tunics and leggings…and ankle jeans and booties 🙂
I also got the light grey turtleneck tunic sweater during the 40% off sale. Can’t wait to wear it!
LOVE your style! I don’t even want to look at my Nordies bill after the “tunic” post!! Cassie, where did you find the gold loop necklace that you wore with the gray sweater tunic? It is so classy and feminine! THANKS FOR SHARING WITH US!