When the temperature drops and the weather shifts, layering becomes your first fashion defence. Whether you have a knack for it or not, one thing is certain: Layering outfits always starts with good basics. When done properly, it can become a masterclass in multifunctional or transitional dressing, taking you seamlessly from daytime to night and indoors to outdoors.
Not sure where to start or you just need solid tips on layering your outfits? This guide’s got you covered. From clever tricks to elevate your everyday staples, to styling hacks that give your old pieces a refreshing look, we’ll show you how to layer like a fashion savant.
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Mastering the Art of Layering
Layering isn’t just a tactic for staying warm in cold climes. It’s a style power move. Done right, it ditches the need for bulky outerwear and takes your outfit from “meh” to a complete fashion statement. It’s your secret weapon for staying polished and snug, no matter the weather.
Think of it as an excellent way to transform your clothes. It allows you to dive into your wardrobe’s favorites and think of new ways to style your beloved pieces, adding more depth, texture, and flair to even your simplest looks.
A chunky sweater over a slip dress? Smooth. A crisp shirt under a structured blazer? Effortless. A hoodie underneath a trench coat. That’s the spark! Layering makes outfits more versatile. In fact, it’s a sustainable fashion hack that extends the lifespan of your clothes.
Use our guide below as your personal master class on layering outfits like a pro:
Dress Over Pants
An easy way to give your dresses new life is by wearing them over a pair of pants. For a polished twist, wear a blazer atop it. And don’t forget to accessorize with jewelry, a bag, and befitting shoes.
Jumper on Tee/Shirt
Layering a jumper over a white shirt or tee always looks effortlessly cool, especially when the shirt’s neckline or collar peeks out beneath the knitwear. Complete the look with a pair of jeans or slouchy tailored pants and loafers for a casual-chic vibe.
Layring Outfits with Blazer on Jumper
If the temperature is too frigid and you want a polished office-appropriate look, wear a jacket over your sweater or cardigan. It keeps you warm during a long workday.
Shirt on Shirt on Shirt
Stacking two or three shirts on top of each other might sound extreme, but not when it’s super cold, and you want to make a style statement. For extra warmth, try different shirt textures, or, better still, add a jacket to the mix.
Layering Outfits with Leather on Knitwear
Leather and knitwear are an exceptionally gorgeous pairing. The textured leather adds a luxe feel, while knitwear brings an old-money vibe. The hack is to wear a leather jacket over a sweater, a cardigan, or even a knit dress.
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Layering Outfits with Jackets on Jackets
A leather jacket on a denim jacket? Or a blazer on a leather jacket? Anyone works. When you wear two or more jackets together, you create visual interest as the different fabrics add extra layers of texture.
Layering Outfits with Trenchcoats
For a sophisticated solution to transitional dressing, look no further than the impactful trench coat. It’s easy to style it with different outfits, from dresses to suits and separates.
Corsets over Shirts
Flip the narrative: Instead of wearing your shirt or jacket over a corset top, wear it the other way round. The corset will act as a pseudo belt, cinching your waist and flattering your figure.
Techniques to Keep in Mind When Layering Outfits
Balance Proportions
Layering is more than stacking clothes; it’s about creating visual interest through contrast, proportion, and the right clothes. For example, when you pair oversized shirts with fitted blazers, the shirt’s relaxed bulk contrasts with the blazer’s sharp tailoring, creating a balance between casual and elevated. Also, your innerwear doesn’t have to be bulky all the time. You can layer a vest, tank top, crop top, or a figure-hugging dress.
The key to reducing bulk when layering is to wear looser silhouettes on top. Since a coat is the last topping to an outfit, choose one roomy enough to wear over leather jackets, chunky knits, and blazers. This way, you balance proportions without even trying.
Reconsider Your Basics
The strength of every building lies in its foundation. So, to layer like a pro, you need to double down on your foundational staples. This matters, especially during transitional seasons like autumn, when it gets cold and then warms up. If the top underneath is bland, it can ruin your outfit’s structure. For example, business-like shirts layered over a turtleneck can instantly take you from the boardroom to a casual brunch.
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