Lessons In Layering: The Season’s Must-Try Styling Tricks
From after-dark tops worn over everyday T-shirts to head-to-toe tonal looks – here’s the lowdown on how to layer this season
Midwinter signals a shift not only in the weather but our wardrobes, too – one that calls for cozy knits and versatile layers. Done properly, wrapping up for the cold can be a masterclass in multifunctional dressing, where layering separates can seamlessly take you from dawn to dusk, indoors to outdoors, and negate the need for bulky outerwear when you want to feel polished. So, what do you need to curate your closet for the season ahead? Here’s how to master the art of layering now…
Basics don’t have to be boring
In order to navigate chilly commutes and crisp winter weekends in the city, it’s time to double down on the hardworking staples that will see us through shifting temperatures in style. This season, the easiest way to make those core pieces feel fresh is all in the styling: think business-like shirts from Frame in fluid proportions, layered under a lightweight cardigan, such as &Daughter’s chocolate-colored wool and cashmere-blend style, which instantly takes this look from boardroom to brunch-casual. Paired with Jil Sander’s grain de poudre wool straight-leg pants and a long coat by Saint Laurent, this look is giving a ’90s-minimalist, New York-commuter aesthetic – especially when teamed with Saint Laurent sunglasses (either to shield tired eyes or protect against the winter sun) and a pair of chic hoop earrings, such as Sophie Buhai’s from our NET SUSTAIN edit.
Add turtlenecks under everything
Just as the ’90s wardrobes of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Kate Moss continue to be pinned to the vision boards of the style set, so too comes the ascendance of the ultimate ’90s styling trick: layering a turtleneck under, well, anything really, but particularly crisp shirts and oversized tailoring. The trick to nailing this look is to invest in super-fine, quality fabrics – such as the wool, cashmere and silk-blend used to make Gabriela Hearst’s version – that won’t look too bulky under shirting or blazers. Pair it with a crisp blue shirt from The Row a midi skirt by Saint Laurent and a double-breasted blazer by Carven – all the chic of a spring look, with enough warmth for a cold winter’s day.
Double denim is in
If you’ve always been on the fence about double denim, now’s the time to get on board, because the ‘Canadian tuxedo’ is back – and it’s chicer than ever. The key to keeping this look cool (think less 2000s pop star and more modern-day cowboy) is layering. First, opt for relaxed denim in vintage washes, such as Citizens of Humanity’s ‘Ari’ shirt paired with Agolde’s wide-leg ‘Clara’ jeans from our NET SUSTAIN edit; and then break them up with Re/done’s simple white tank and a tailored jacket. Brunello Cucinelli’s cropped style in tan suede is a timeless choice.
Evening tops work double-duty
‘Jeans and a nice top’ has long been a sartorial mainstay of the after-dark wardrobe, but who says your favorite party pieces should be reserved strictly for night-time hours? Make your evening tops more daytime-appropriate by layering them over a crisp white T-shirt – it’s ideal for smart-casual events or for adding a touch of glamour to an office-ready look. Faithfull’s strapless linen ‘Fleuri’ top from our NET SUSTAIN edit is layered over Toteme’s organic cotton-jersey tee, a NET-A-PORTER exclusive; add light blue denim from B Sides and Burberry’s belted trench for a wear-anywhere look.
Embrace blanket dressing
Fashion insiders’ favorite way to wear knitwear this season? Either knotted or draped over the shoulders of a tailored coat. Nili Lotan’s dark green sweater not only looks chic on, but when knotted around your neck, you’ll be surprised how easily it can elevate an outfit, too. Meanwhile, a long coat, such as Toteme’s cashmere blend in an elegant taupe, serves as the perfect base – and is roomy enough to accommodate chunky knits worn underneath, too. Wear it open over Stella McCartney’s leopard-print dress from our NET SUSTAIN edit and complete your look with Chloé’s ‘Paraty 24’ tote in classic black.
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