All about Layering
We are running fast into Fall and though our Bay Area weather may not feel as such right now, it is the season when layering becomes especially important. I wanted to write a blog about layering because I’m starting to feel it is an overused phrase by stylists and influencers alike. Clients and everyday people struggling with their wardrobe know “layering is good” but we (as experts) aren’t exactly clear about what it is or how to achieve it. Well I’m here to clear up both for you and hopefully give you practical tips that you can take and run with this Fall season.
WHAT IS “LAYERING”?
Layering is the art of wearing multiple (often lighter-weight) pieces over one-another. You would do this instead of wearing a single, bulkier, piece over 1 top. And while achieving a dimensional layering look often includes 3 or more layers, I would still consider an intentional jacket over a top as layering (please note the word: intentional). Layering, to me, also implies the mixing of textures and fabrication.
Laying can also be an important tool to get more use out of your pieces - perhaps a top is too sheer to wear alone or a sweater is too baggy to wear without something underneath.
I wish I had more to write here but It’s really that simple!
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT IN FALL
The Fall season and the term “layering” are often seen together because Fall is the typical season where we see a variety of weather changes. This can mean that the weather changes drastically between September and November, but in places like the Bay Area, the weather can also change drastically from sunrise to sunset. Because of these climate changes, layering becomes a very important tool to regulate your own temperature.
It is also synonymous with Fall because of all of the textures and prints that suddenly come online in the season. Merino wool, cashmere, corduroy, flannel and suede are all quintessential Fall fabrics that feel luxe to the touch and provide the warmth and comfort we are looking for this season.
Layering is practical, logical and smart for day-to-day comfort. It’s amazing how helpful it is to build a wardrobe that has easily, layerable pieces! But practicality and comfort aren’t the only benefits to layering! Layering also helps to create interesting, dimensional and dynamic outfits. When you’ve mastered the art of layering, you suddenly look more “fashionable”, “chic” and attuned to the latest trends. This is ultimately the goal for so many clients who struggle to get dressed everyday.
WHAT PIECES ARE CRITICAL FOR THIS?
You can layer in any season and with any pieces in your wardrobe. That said, because we focused on Fall layering, I am going to
recommend some pieces that will help you layer in this season in particular. So what are the pieces you absolutely need to achieve layered looks this Fall?
Long-Sleeve Tee (White or Black)
Turtleneck (White or Black)
Crisp White tee (slightly fitted)
White button-up blouse
Barn Jacket
Cashmere Pullover Sweater (any color but neutral colors help)
Layering Dress (silk slip dress or bodycon sweater dress)
Wool Scarf
Sleeveless Turtleneck
Sweater Vest (v-neck or crew)
Silk Scarf
Trenchcoat
Plaid, Houndstooth or Wool Blazer
Cashmere Cardigan
Great Jeans (Flares, Straight Leg or Barrel)
Booties (with a heel are a plus)
Flat (Loafer or Ballet)
And while you don’t need all of these, having a majority of these will easily help you create layered looks for Fall.
If you don’t have a lot of these or need recommendations for updated pieces, you can reference our Seasonal Style Guide! We curate this guide every season and carefully pick closet staples, seasonal staples and trends that we think will resonate most and that we know are good quality with great price-points. Not only will you find item recommendations, you’ll also see more styling tips and outfit ideas - again giving you specific guidance beyond inspiration.
OUTFIT FORMULAS
Like I said in the intro of this blog, I want these blogs to serve as useful tools for you. As part of that goal, I want to provide real examples of how you can execute layering on your own! Below, I have provided outfit formulas and examples. Try them out one of these days - you may be surprised how easy it is! And if you’re struggling, you may discover that some of your closet staples need an update to help you achieve the looks you’re going for.
Also, quick note: you obviously don’t have to follow these formulas or images directly, play with prints, different jean styles and outerwear pieces to see what you can come up with! Extra points if you can infuse your own personal style.
White button-up blouse + cashmere v-neck sweater + blazer + bootcut jeans + heeled booties
Long sleeve white tee + sweater vest + leather bomber jacket + barrel jeans + ballet flats
White bodysuit + open cardigan + trench + scarf + tapered jeans + slingbacks
White tee + Flannel button-up (open) + barn jacket + cuffed jeans + sambas
White tee + cardigan + suede jacket + straight leg jeans + socks + loafers
White tee + cashmere crewneck + suede bomber + trouser + slingback
IN CONCLUSION
Laying doesn’t need to be this elusive phrase that only the most fashionable among us can achieve. We all have the opportunity to create dynamic, layered outfits and it just takes a little bit of time and intentionality to execute! Rather than go out and buy all new clothing this Fall, I challenge you to shop in your wardrobe, see what pieces from the Seasonal Style Guide you already have, and then try your hand at some of the outfit formulas above. Start familiarizing yourself with your pieces, how they are best styled and what combinations work well! This process should be fun and should get your creative juices flowing.
Style some layered outfits and tag me at @andiesobstyle ! We’d love to see you express yourself and use layering as a tool this Fall.