When the weather slingshots between below-freezing mornings and somewhat temperate afternoons, dressing in layers is your best chance to survive the season. Items like tights, thermal underwear, leggings, long-sleeve shirts, and turtlenecks are not just mere basics but also secret weapons when it comes to strategic layers. Here are a few styling hacks and go-to outfit combinations to help you bundle up without sacrificing grace or style.
One approach is to start with a base layer. This could consist of the aforementioned tights, thermals, or warm knee socks on the bottom. For the top, a camisole, long-sleeve tissue t-shirt, or a Henley-style shirt will all work. This base should be fitted and breathable. Sweat-wicking material found in activewear is also a great option. Just make sure it’s comfortable, as this layer, unlike your outerwear or knitwear, will be with you all day. From here, you can add layers as needed, ending with a coat and cold-weather accessories like a hat, gloves, and a scarf.
The flip side to the base layer method is to focus on heavier mid and outer layers, which can be better suited to these low-lows and mid-level highs. The base starts with jeans or pants and an undershirt. Keep in mind that an undershirt should be presentable enough to be worn on its own. From here, add a button-down or turtleneck, then put on mid-layers of a sweater, blazer, insulated vest, or light jacket. The last layer is your coat. This way, as the day warms, you can peel off layers, ditching the coat or the mid-layer, and still be dressed appropriately for the weather. The trick, though, is to keep the bulk minimal. Chunky sweaters, puffy jackets, etc., could lead you toward the Michelin Man look, which is far from the chic aesthetic for which we are aiming. No matter the layering game you’re playing, keep the pieces fitted and breathable so as not to look or feel overstuffed.
Once you’ve decided on a layering technique, you can play around with different outfit formulas. If you already have a go-to winter uniform of sorts, you can easily adapt that to work with layers. For a V-neck sweater, dark denim, and boots, layer some tall, athletic socks and a turtleneck underneath. Then, a duster cardigan and hand warmers for a mid-layer. Finish with an infinity scarf, hat, and coat as your last layer.
If you’re in need of a more polished look, then layer translucent tights under a wide-leg trouser, a bodysuit under a cable knit sweater, and top off with gloves, a fisherman’s style cap, and a neutral overcoat. I’d wear some footie socks and chunky sneakers with this outfit and carry along a pair of pumps in an oversized tote to change into if need be. Of course, nowadays, the old rules of footwear have loosened, and sneakers can be just as chic as heels and loafers. Just be sure to treat your sneakers like dress shoes and keep them clean to pull off this look.
If you prefer dresses and skirts, you can still wear them during the cold weather and not freeze. Fleece-lined leggings and thermal tights will keep you in dresses and skirts all winter long. Layer a turtleneck under shirtdresses or a blouse under a sleeveless dress for a jumper-like effect. Of course, sweaters and cardigans can be worn over dresses and with a skirt. If you’re going with a thicker sweater or oversized silhouette with a knit, balance that out with a more fitted skirt. To further winterize your look, add weather-appropriate boots, be those snow boots, hiking boots, cowboy boots, or knee-high boots. I, for one, enjoy the contrast of rugged footwear with a feminine frock. To top things off, go for a coat that hits at the same hem length for a clean finish.
Another element of layering is shapewear. Defining bodysuits, especially those that hit mid-thigh or jumpsuit styles that have full leg coverage, can work both in supporting your silhouette as well as acting as a base layer. Good shapewear won’t cut into or overly restrict you and can be worn all day in relative comfort. From this solid base, you can layer just about any outfit while avoiding bulk and bulge for a chic winter outfit.
The key to layering for this time of year is to have what’s underneath the outer and mid layers wearable and appropriate on its own. More importantly, each layer should be comfortable. If things feel tight or bunched up, then those pieces probably aren’t meant to be in a multi-layered look. The way the weather is now, you may not need each layer, and a coat over a non-layered look can still serve your needs. But if you find you need a bit more insulation on these chilly mornings, consider trying out some chic winter layers.
