Layering garments is the best way to transition your outfits from warmer to cooler months, as you can easily use trans-seasonal pieces to create stylish outfits. If you’re unsure which wardrobe elements you could add without compromising your style, check out this list of what I find to be my essential layering clothes for autumn and winter.
Early Autumn is the optimal time to invest in these pieces to prepare for the months ahead as you can find the best range of styles and colours.
Layer with a Camisole
You may already own cotton knit camis and tanks that can easily be used as a layering piece and may add a touch of colour to an outfit as they peek out the neckline of your V-neck tops.
Layer with Body Fitting Thermal Tops
Lightweight, half-sleeve or long-sleeve thermal tops are handy base layers to wear under your regular clothes. They should fit close to your body with no gaps around the arms, neck and waist (to keep the heat in).
Layer with Longline Cardigans
A longline cardigan is such a versatile layering piece. Wear yours with jeans and a tee for a relaxed, casual look, or team it with a dress and heeled boots for a dressier vibe. Remember: bulky knits add bulk, and finer knits are slimming.
Tip: If you have a defined waist, use a belt (either on top of or underneath your cardi) to flatter your figure.
Layer with a Blazer or Jacket
Own at least one stylish blazer or jacket in a solid colour in one of your best neutrals so it mixes and matches with everything in your wardrobe. Choose a timeless, classic style for longevity. A blazer or jacket is an excellent staple to have in your wardrobe and can be worn all year round. You might choose a denim or moto style jacket or one of the current blazer styles depending on your style preferences.
Layer with Fine Wool Jumpers/Sweaters
Fitted jumpers. ‘Sweater weather’ is widely used in America to describe cold days. Jumpers made from soft, lightweight wool, luxurious cashmere, or a blend of materials like 70% wool, 20% acrylic and 10% cashmere are excellent layering items.
Wear a simple tee, cami, or thermal as an underlayer. Or, elevate the look by teaming your sweater with a button-up shirt underneath or wear it under your blazer when it’s chilly.
Fine knits are very versatile. Wear them with a longline cardigan and a scarf for colder days for extra warmth and cosiness.
Layer with Scarves
Scarves protect your neck from cold weather. They keep the air around your neck where it is. Your body warms the air around your neck, and a quality scarf will keep the air there, keeping your neck warm. Choose from natural fibres: cashmere, fleece, wool, and silk.
Plus, scarves are a great way to add colour, texture, and interest to your outfit.
Tip: If it’s really cold, wrap your scarf over your head and ears for extra warmth.
Layer with Hosiery
Tights and socks are great layered under dresses, skirts, and pants. They’re useful under dresses and skirts to protect your legs from cold air. Keep it simple with opaque neutral tones like black, grey, and brown. Or, liven things up with fun, bold hues or patterned tights.
Fun layering clothes for Autumn: colourful tights.
Layering Clothes for Autumn: Trench Coat
The classic trench coat is timeless, as they are always in fashion. Choose styles without overly fashion-forward features, such as oversized collars, and ensure it is a comfortable weight and drape for you, so it doesn’t feel heavy or stiff.
Layer with a Leather jacket
It can be either genuine or faux leather. Either way, leather-style jackets are an ideal wardrobe staple for the cooler months, mainly if they are lined.
Choose from the blazer, biker or motto style jackets depending on the look you want to achieve.
Click the image or here to shop the leather jackets.
Styling Tip: If your upper body looks bulky due to wearing many layers, keep your lower half more streamlined to create visual balance. This concept is called the ‘Principles of Volume’, which you can learn more about here.
If you’d like a ‘style best friend’ to help you select the perfect layering pieces for your Autumn/Winter wardrobe, so you’re sure the items you buy are ideal for you and will last for years, a Personal Shopping Trip is a fun, hands-on experience that will elevate your style and save you time, money and stress. Be your best stylish self today!
