Yes, the wearing of multiple items over one another to achieve a textured look emerged in the 1980s – “Flashdance,” anyone? – but it’s also one of the key styles this season.
Better yet, it’s all about creativity and personality...yours!
Apart from being the mood of the moment, layering is also a great way to get more wear out of your warm-weather dresses, skirts, pants and tops. Pairing garments isn’t just stylish, it’s practical.
The trend could translate into a sheer skirt made work-appropriate by being topped with a tunic. A bodysuit under a linen shirt with a knit over your shoulders. A silk blouse peeking out from a patterned sweater. A few light shirts and a cardigan thrown over jeans.
You don’t even have to pack away your favorite tank for winter. Besides slipping it under a classic button-up topped by a dark blazer, you could put it over a thin, long-sleeved T-shirt matched with a vibrant cardigan.
Hard-and-fast rules are hard to find. OK – here are two guidelines. One: You may want to avoid piling on the garments in an explosion of maximalism. Two: Layering with intention balances color, fabric, weight and size.
To look sophisticated rather than sloppy, start by sticking with neutrals or shades of one color. If you love hue, go with simple pops. You could always try a crazy quilt later.
Make sure to pay attention to the weight of the fabric. Be wary of thick, stocky layers. What’s interesting is the contrast of textures, such as a blocky sweater over a floaty dress. Avoid matching up two hefty items. Watch out for different clasps like buttons and zippers, which can add bulk.
Consider pulling your look together with a belt. For instance, try a beautiful cowlneck sweater under a blazer, and then belt the whole thing. Or wear tunic tops, dresses and long sweaters over skinny jeans, all with a belt.
Think about your figure. If you’re bigger on top, you may not want to add too many layers, such as a tank, blouse, sweater and blazer, which could be excessive. Instead, look for styles that lengthen your body, such as a tank topped by a body-skimming, long sweater paired with straight-leg pants and a belt.
Learning how to thoughtfully layer just takes practice. Feel your way through trial and error, mix and match. Choose a base garment and add additional pieces that look and feel good on you. One thing’s guaranteed: You’ll never see anyone else wearing the same ensemble!
