As the chill on the air gets progressively colder, we’re all on the lookout for ways to keep warm. When it's cold out, leaving the house every day looking your best can be a challenge, especially compared to how easy that is in the spring and summer. Say hello to the layering trend, your new go-to! There’s no need to choose between comfort and style when you layer. The layering trend layers multiple garments to create an outfit that guarantees you’re always warm enough.
Find out how to layer by reading the tips in our article. Above all, keep in mind that this guide is intended to help you on your way. Essentially, they’re all suggestions that will hopefully give you the inspiration you need to put together the perfect outfit.
The layers
Obviously, the most important term to focus on when layering is ... layers! Newbies should remember that it’s not really layering (and keeping warm!) unless there are at least three layers. Once you’ve got that down, you can start adding more layers. At the end of the day, there are no hard and fast rules in fashion, just what makes you feel good!
Base layer
This is the foundation of your outfit.. The base layer mainly provides warmth, but it’s especially important not to make this layer too thick. Base layers that start with wide sleeves or heavy-weight fabrics will turn your outfit into a frump show in no time. The perfect items are long-sleeved and fitted.
Polo necks
This item is a true staple in nearly every layering wardrobe. Polo necks come in all colours. If you’re only purchasing a single polo neck, we recommend going for something fitted. That way you know it will fit underneath your other layers. Even better, it's a way to stay extra warm because polo necks frequently come in thermal fabrics.
A dress or polo shirt
Are polo necks not your cup of tea? A dress or polo shirt can add the right pop to your outfit. The collar can also feature over the mid layer. The Aila blouse or Isra shirt are perfect when you need a shirt with a high neckline. Looking for something a little more relaxed? Elisa has got the right panache.
A long-sleeved shirt or blouse
This is the go-to for anyone who feels claustrophobic just thinking about high necklines. Plus, it’s an item that allows you to emphasise other details. For example, puffed sleeves have great schwung. Or go for a blouse with a deeper neckline, like the Wallys.
Mid layer
Your outfit depends on the mid layer. It’s what pulls everything together – the base and outer layer – and showcases how gorgeous all those layers look together. This item should ensure that whatever you love best about your base layer is visible.
Jumpers
You can never go wrong with a jumper! Did you opt for a polo neck or dress shirt? A crew neck jumper is the way to go since it stylishly highlights your base layer. The Mika jumper or Mabel top have the perfect neckline for that.
Sleeveless jumpers
This item, also known as a sweater vest in some circles, has recently made a big comeback. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a style icon without one of these in their wardrobe. Did you pick a blouse with spectacular sleeves or puffed sleeves? Even on the chilliest of days you can show it off with a sleeveless jumper.
Statement T-shirts
This one is especially for autumn days. Have you got a pretty or witty statement T-shirt that you’re not ready to put away yet? Just pair it with a long-sleeved shirt or a polo neck in a complimentary colour. Your T-shirt is the statement piece here, while the base layer serves to make the mid layer look its best.
Having trouble settling on a colour for your base layer? You can’t go wrong with a neutral shade. Does your T-shirt have a POP of colour? Pick that up in your base layer to boost the effect.
Not quite sure which T-shirt will work? If you’ve got a boat neck T-shirt in mind, then Afra is the perfect match. Would a V-neck suit you better? Then you'll be layering in no time with the Vita.
Knitted jumpers
This one's a true classic to keep you toasty and warm. Knitted jumpers come in all different shapes, and they’re all fabulous for layering! Select a cut that makes your base layer look its finest. Do you have a nice neckline you'd like to accentuate, e.g. the collar on a dress shirt? A crew neck jumper is the way to go Is your base layer on the long side? Go for a jumper that’s just a tad shorter to give it a casual drape. Knit cardigans are also well suited to this.
Would you like to knit your own jumper? The Lily, Tara, and Yvonne jumpers and the Pia cardigan are all great choices.
Do you prefer sewing knitted fabrics? Check out the Alice jumper and Erin sweatshirt.
A blouse or shirt
Some garments work well in more than one layer. However, nothing could be further from the truth than for an (oversized) shirt. Want to boost your base layer? Casually leave your shirt unbuttoned. It adds warmth without concealing the base layer. That works out fabulously if your favourite part of the base layer is an upper body detail. You can also button up your shirt to showcase the neck of your polo neck.
The outer layer
Now that you’ve picked the base and mid layers, it’s time for the final layer. This one is worn primarily on the outside. And that means that it’s mainly preoccupied with battening down the hatches and keeping you warm whatever the winter weather conditions.
Blazers
Blazers (oversized, please!) are an outer layer that will glow up your autumn outfits. Blazers can be worn casual or dressy. It all depends on your base and mid layers. The blazer and T-shirt combo is always a winner for a relaxed day out on the town. Is today an office day? Pair your blazer with a dress shirt and/or a polo neck.
Weather too chilly for your blazer to make a good jacket? There’s no reason it can’t be your mid layer; just throw a warmer coat on top. That turns your blazer into an all-year-round item. The Kai blazer can certainly handle both styles.
Coats
Coats are long, making them your saving grace and ticket to style in the heaviest showers and snowstorms. Moreover, this true classic goes with every outfit. Coats are also a great way to play with different lengths and materials in your outfit. Choose Hunter for timeless grace or Rya for a statement you can’t resist. Need something waterproof? Even the fiercest storm won't slow you down in the Martha trench coat.
Leather(ette) jackets
Leatherette jackets are the tough-guy companion to the classic coat or blazer. That makes them perfect for giving your classic outfit an edgy touch. Make your jacket in black to go with everything. Want to add a splash of colour to your outfit? Go for a different colour in fabric or leatherette.
Padded coats
We all have them, winter days when we’d like nothing better than to stay snuggled beneath a fluffy pile of blankets all day. On days like those, a padded jacket is a lifesaver. Make sure to pair with base and mid layers that aren’t too thick to make sure your figure and your outfit look their best.
What about legs?
Layering mainly focuses on your torso. After all, layering three pairs of trousers isn’t really much of an option. However, that’s also why outfitting the lower half of your body is a whole lot easier. Just choose a pair of trousers or a skirt you're comfortable in.
Colours and patterns
Layering involves combining a variety of elements. And it can occasionally be a challenge to mix and match the right colours and patterns. But that’s no reason to worry. Stick with neutral shades if you want to play it safe. Mixing various textures and fabrics is also an option. It's a way to add depth to your outfit without having to fiddle with colours.
Would you like to try your hand at blending patterns and a little colour? You’re main challenge is to ensure that the various individual layers coordinate. Layering is a layer-by-layer affair. Start with one garment at a time and then add or subtract if something doesn't feel right.
With a little luck, this guide will have inspired you to start layering yourself. Of course, you might already be a pro and these tips were just preaching to the choir. Whatever the case, be sure to share your creations on social media to inspire us with your layering trend adventures.
