The Seasonal Guide to Layering
Layering is a great way to add dimension and texture to any outfit. With the power to bring a simple outfit to the level of something dazzling, layers can be a pretty awesome styling habit to get into. Aside from being fashionable and versatile, layers are also quite practical. Correct layering doesn’t have you just looking fabulous, it can also keep you warm, protect you from the sun, or keep you dry during different seasons or weather conditions. Learning how to layer by season is like learning an art that will keep you looking stylish and feeling comfortable. We’ve put together our seasonal guide to layering where you can learn some of the best ways to layer for each season.
Summer
When we think summer, we think of spaghetti straps and airy summer dresses. But, summertime can also mean the right kind of layers. Fabrics like cotton, linen, and modal are all wonderful fabrics for the summer months as they are light, airy, and breathable. Layer atop your summer dress or spaghetti straps with a blouse or wrap top that is made of one of these lighter and airier fabrics for style and comfort. Choose to layer sheer pieces over opaque ones. For example, a white lace or chiffon top looks and feels lovely over a white cotton tank top.
Opt for loose and drapey over tight and fitted. Not only will it look great, but it will feel more comfortable than wearing a tight piece of clothing during those hot summer months. For example, wear a loose-fitting wrap top or kimono style to keep the sun or evening chill off your skin while still feeling and looking like summer. We also love the look of sleeveless layers. Wear a long and flowy vest top over a tank top or dress for a stylish look. Remember, the fabric and fit are both key, as they allow for comfort and breathability.
Autumn
For many, the autumn months are some of our favorites to dress for. And very often it’s because of those cozy layers. As we make the transition from cotton to wool, layering is key to comfort and style during the fall months. One of the easiest and coolest ways to layer in the fall is to keep wearing some of your favorite summer pieces with a few heavier layers on top. For example, wear your favorite summer tee with jeans, boots, and a wool cardigan sweater.
Another common autumn wardrobe theme is leggings. Wear some of your favorite summer dresses into the cooler fall months by adding a pair of leggings (and a blazer or jacket to keep your top half warm too) This meshing of the seasons offers a lot of versatility and flexibility for how to layer and style your clothes.
Winter
Layering is key to surviving winter. Aside from being stylish, layering is what is going to keep you warm and toasty through those frigid months. The best way to stay warm is to follow the magical layering trifecta: moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating layer, and a weatherproof layer. This is especially important if you plan to spend long hours outside enjoying the snow. Thermal shirts will do the trick as your base layer. They are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable. For the insulating middle layer, a thick sweater made of animal fibers like wool, cashmere, and alpaca are all great choices for keeping you warm. The perfect outer layer would be a down jacket or weatherproof jacket for those wet and windy days.
Feel free to get creative with your sweater layering. We love the look of a light cashmere turtleneck sweater worn under a chunky knit cardigan. Alternatively, wearing thick wool tights under a sweater dress and a cardigan is another haute look for winter layers.
Spring
Nothing feels as good as stripping back the layers after a long winter to welcome spring. Despite being enthusiastic about ditching our heavy clothes, layering is important in the springtime, too. While we are graced with some sunny and warm days, we are also still subjected to chilly breezes and cool rainy days. Layering for spring includes pulling out those lighter pieces that have been hibernating all winter while also keeping a reality check about the temperatures outside.
Some stylish and comfortable ways to effectively layer for spring are to wear women’s jeans with a tank top and cardigan, or tights under some summery dresses. Similar to fall, play with wearing wooly cardigans over cotton and opt for jeans instead of airy skirts. Perhaps swap your leather jacket for a denim one to get more in the mood for the incoming summer. When layering in the spring, it’s good to start slowly bringing in your summery pieces while also keeping tabs on the temperatures outside and dressing accordingly.
Layering is both stylish and practical. Stay warm and fabulous by keeping these tips in mind for how to best layer for each season.