As we approach the winter season, all of us go through the same dilemma of how to dress warmly without losing our style. The great outfit you have assembled for the day often disappears underneath a heavy
and boring jacket. According to stylists, you can still dress smart using a simple hack – layering.
Layering is the ultimate winter skill, which helps you stay warm and trendy without looking like a “walking duvet”. The main feature of the hack is to layer smartly so that you can look fashionable without giving off the impression that you have stuffed your whole wardrobe in one outfit.
Start With the Perfect Base
The first step to smart layering is the perfect base. Rather than heavy thermals, go for lightweight knits, turtlenecks or bodysuits in chic and simple colours. Cotton or merino wool is perfect for layering since they are both warm and breathable.
Lovers of dresses can still wear what they like in winter by putting on a fitted turtleneck or long-sleeved top under the dress for warmth and a structured look.
Play With Lengths and Textures
One of the most important things when layering fashionably is to create depth. The fashion experts suggest styling short outerwear with long shirts or tunics to get a trendy and casual look. Similarly, one should wear long coats with skinny pants or skirts so that there is a good balance.
Another tip from the pros is to use different textures for a chic result. You could mix the leather jacket with a wool scarf or a knit fabric with a satin skirt. As stylists often put it, “When colour can’t, texture can”.
Belt Up and Add Shape
Sometimes the layers can make your body shape disappear beneath the thick fabrics. Use a belt to give a fitted structure to your dress and highlight your silhouette.
Wear ornamental belts having metal buckles or leather with a distinctive texture to double as an accessory. It is the quickest way to transform a cosy blob into one that is cinched and chic.
Choose Outerwear That Complements Your Look
Instead of sheltering your clothes, choose outerwear that makes them more beautiful. Cropped puffers, sleeveless vests and tailored trenches can work well to emphasise the mid-layers. Neutral colours like beige, camel, or black help calm down a colourful outfit while still keeping it classy.
Accessories cannot be forgotten either. Besides keeping you warm, scarves, berets, gloves and mufflers can also elevate your OOTD. A brightly coloured beanie or some really colourful gloves can break dull winter neutrals without any effort.
Jewellery, Proportions and Colour Play
Make your look more refined by adding jewellery pieces, such as layering necklaces or combining hoops with studs. If the neckline is not visible, highlight the ears with statement earrings and the wrists with chunky bracelets.
Also, the stylists advise playing with proportions. Wearing a cropped jacket over a long sweater or a hoodie under a trench coat adds depth in an instant. To prevent a cluttered appearance, use the three-colour rule: one neutral, one complementary and one accent.
Monochrome looks are great as well; layering several tones of one colour, such as cream or grey, can be both timeless and elegant. By layering wisely, you not only dress for warmth but also make a creative style statement with your outfit. Whether it is wrapping a belt around your coat, texture mixing or revealing your mid-layers, there is an art to being cosy and chic.
