Cozy season is almost here! When the temperatures start dropping, I start planning how I’ll stay warm and fashionable during the cooler months. It’s nearly impossible to predict fall and winter forecasts. Instead of dressing for one extreme or the other, I start layering my clothes. Layering allows you to play around with basics and statement pieces that are already in your wardrobe. Learning how to wear layers and be fashionable will take some time, but if you follow the tips and advice in this blog, you’ll be ready to slay and stay warm at any event!
Reasons to Layer Your Clothes
Layering isn’t just a way to stay warm. There are so many reasons why you may want to incorporate layering into your style. A top reason for layering clothes (aside from staying warm) is to mix and match different pieces for multiple different looks. Layering allows me to create countless new outfits from my existing wardrobe. Another reason why I wear layers is because they allow me to continue wearing my favorite summer pieces longer. You don’t have to stop wearing that favorite maxi dress just because the weather cools down. Simply add a few layers to create a cozy, fall look that is all your own.
The final reason why you may consider layering your clothes is to look taller and slimmer. I’m short and petite. Some days, I want to appear slimmer than I really am while other days I’m super confident and proud to show off my curves. No matter how you’re feeling, using long layers can create a lengthening effect which can create the illusion of height.
General Layering Tips
1. Layer from Thin to Thick
Layering clothes properly is an art form. As a general rule of thumb, you start your layers from thin to thick. Clothes made from thinner fabrics should be worn closer to your body and heavier fabrics farther off.
For this first look, I started with a white pocket tee, a pair of khaki pants and loafers.
Next, I added a chambray shirt, as an overshirt. It acts as a covering for cold mornings. As the day goes by, if it warms up, I can take the chambray shirt and tie it around my waist. The idea is to be able to peel on and off the layers and still look fashionable.
A lot of times I’ll wrap the shirt around me and tuck it in the front. I feel like this is a little bit more polished look.
Then I might add a scarf around my neck. I’ve always loved silk scarves and they’re a great way to accessorize with as well as keep your neck warm. What’s great about this is that I can take it off and tie it to my handbag if it gets too warm outside.
2. Stick to Layers that Can be Removed Easily
When it comes to layering, you want to make sure you’re including clothing pieces that can easily be taken off. Think lightweight sweaters, jackets, cardigans, and blazers. These pieces can be draped over your shoulders as the temperature rises. This utility jacket is a great example of another good fall jacket for layering. It’s lightweight and it also has a sleeve that you can roll up. It’s also a piece you can take off and tie around your waist if need be.
While your outermost layer will usually be a cardigan or jacket, make sure the other inner layers can be unbuttoned or easily slipped over your head if you need to remove them.
3. Layering with Sweaters
Crewneck sweaters are another great layering piece. I love adding sweaters to an outfit because it keeps the look polished while giving more of a classic, relaxed feel. Adding sweaters to the mix is a simple styling technique because these are pieces you most likely already have in your closet. You can wear them over a top whether it’s a button up or a T-shirt. If you get too warm, you can loosely tie the sweater around your neck for a more preppy look.
4. Experiment with Prints & Patterns
Don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns and prints when layering. Prints can elevate your style when layered with the right pieces. I typically recommend wearing one loud print or design with a solid color to make the overall effect easier to carry out. It’s can get risky if you try to layer with two or more patterns.
If it’s your first-time layering with prints and patterns, I suggest starting out with a subtle design and working your way up to wearing bolder pieces.
I layered this stripped sweater with khakis and a long cardigan for a more profound neutral look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures, fabrics, weights, patterns and colors. The outfit possibilities will be endless!
Layer Like a Pro
Knowing how to layer clothing and still look fashionable is a skill we all need, especially in the fall when temperatures get cooler. My biggest tip is: Don’t overthink it! Learning how to wear layers may be difficult in the beginning. Start out easy and work your way up to experimenting with different layering styles. Enjoy learning and playing around with different patterns, prints, lengths, colors, and thickness. Simply find out what looks, and styles work for you and your body type. The good news is that there are plenty of possibilities.
