This Fall 2025 Sweater Trend Makes Leggings Look More Sophisticated

Fall 2025 may be Taylor Swift season, what with her new album dropping in October. But it's also one of our favorite fashion times of the year for one reason: It's sweater season. And specifically this year, it's all about the crewneck cardigan trend. Funny that, those two things go together: Miss Americana and the beloved cardi. We've even compiled a list of Taylor Swift's cardigan looks and how to rock every era on a budget.

But what's new and fresh and fantastic for those who love a cozy-chic look is what we're pairing the crewneck cardigan with: black leggings. Our expert image consultant Sharonda Irving told Glam exclusively about the beauty of this combination: "Leggings and a sweater signal elevated comfort, effortless cool, and the biggest buzzwords: balanced style." She adds, "[The] crewneck and leggings look is a hit because, secretly, we never want to give up our leggings, but also because we're finally seeing ways to move away from the typical athleisure sets that we have been seeing with leggings for the past several seasons." Crewneck sweaters rather than cardigans specifically will also do the job, and she recommends the Cos Crew-Neck Merino Wool Top, which comes in two neutral shades, and the Isla Crew Neck Merino Jumper from All Saints. Now, red may be the bold sneaker color taking over fall 2025, but save that for another look. This is the moment to pull out your feminine accessories and channel Audrey Hepburn with a 2025 twist.

The first step in creating a leggings-and-sweater outfit, which you can revert to all season long, is to pick the absolute best black leggings. Then start dipping into the crewneck cardigan pool. Our expert Sharonda Irving notes exclusively to Glam that a cream or powder-pink color makes for an elegant pairing for black leggings, and recommends the Aqua Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan from Bloomingdales specifically as it comes in 13 shades. To complete the look, she suggests "kitten heel slingbacks, a shoulder bag, and minimalist jewelry," adding, "You'll be able to transition into any room [with this outfit]. Add a scarf or cape for an additional layer and a bit of extra drama!"

For something more casual, Irving says, "I'd recommend black leggings with an oversized blue crewneck for a pop of color that will also start to transition nicely between seasons. Keep the black loafers in rotation, add an oversized tote — brown or tan would add an interesting contrast of color — to carry your market finds, your book to read while in transit, or your laptop." The image consultant recommends finishing the look with "sunglasses for the end-of-season sun or just for the vibes." And go-to ballet flats, whether they're almond-toe or Mary Jane styles, absolutely work with upgrading the sophistication of the humble leggings. Sweater season is officially sorted.