I like warm-weather tunics worn over pants and jeans when they’re extra long with hems that finish just above the kneecap, or longer than that. Some long tunics have asymmetrical hemlines with shorter lengths on one side and ankle lengths on the other. Or they’re shorter in front and longer in the back.
This collection shows the look I’m describing.
These extra long tunics can be woven or knitted, sleeved or sleeveless, and any colour or pattern. Fabrics are usually soft and drapey, but can also be stiff like button-down shirts. Silhouettes are straight, A-line, fit-and-flared, or cocoon, to allow for comfortable movement. The trick is to keep them fairly streamlined so that you don’t feel like you’re wearing a tent with too much fabric flapping about. Hemlines that are asymmetrical or rounded with side slits tend to look more flattering, because diagonal lines and curved hems add structure to the volume of the silhouette, and look more interesting too.
Bottoms like cropped skinnies, cropped straights, cropped flares, leggings, jeggings, cigarette pants, wider straights, and full-length bootcuts look smashing under extra long tunics. If the tunics are overly sheer, wear a camisole that is the same colour or low contrast to the bottoms to create a column of colour under the tunic. If you want to create the longest lean line, wear a tunic that is low contrast to the bottoms. Wear anything from the highest heel to the flattest flat, depending on your preference. Showcase your feet in sandals, sandal booties or slides, or keep them covered in ballet flats, mules or pumps.
I find the combination of extra long tunic and slimmer bottoms dramatic, elegant, easy, a little ‘70s, beautiful in motion, and very comfortable. It’s forgiving on the midsection and extra bits. I do like the look best sans topper, which makes it a warm-weather outfit for me. But the right topper — either short or long — can look fab too.
I love the version above with the long white shirt, cigarette pants, and thong sandals. I’d sub ballet flats for the thong sandals and do a similar shirt in light blue. I’m not sure I’d like a style as long and as cut away in front because it can be awkward when you sit. But I like the vibe. What do you think of these warm weather, extra long tunic looks?
