Autumn and winter forecasts can be near impossible to predict. One minute it’s cloudy and freezing, and the next, the sun is shining and I’m burning up under a sweater. 

Instead of dressing for one extreme or another, layering clothes can help keep you prepared for anything and everything.

Layering also gives you the opportunity to play around with the pieces that are already in your wardrobe. Give yourself permission to experiment with different textures, fabrics, weights, patterns and colours, and the outfit possibilities are endless. 

Here are a few tips on the Dos and Don’ts of Layering for the winter season:

Layer on Top By Keeping it Simple:

Do layer on top, keeping it simple on the bottom. Don’t mistakenly think tights undershorts or jeans under a skirt make you the queen of layering. Layer tanks, shirts, button-ups, sweaters, knits, leather jackets and coats while keeping pants slim or skinny for a balance of proportions.

Layer With Fitted Clothing:

Do layer items that are fitted, topping a loose boyfriend tee with a structured blazer that shows your body, or go with a fitted top under a loose-knit. Don’t choose baggy items, or you’ll just look sloppy.

Mix Up Your Texture:

Do mix up your textures. We love the look of mixed mediums- so pair a faded denim button-up with a cute cropped leather jacket and a big, woolly knit scarf. Don’t stick with one fabric- like a knit sweater and knit scarf together.

Mix Prints Smartly:

Do mix prints smartly. A brocade cropped jacket over a lacy blouse can be cute and on-trend, but add floral skinnies into the mix and you’ve got a full-fledged Don’t.

Mixed Media is Key: 

Incorporating garments with different fabrics brings an element of texture to your outfit.

Go with Classic Sweaters and Button Downs:

Sweaters are a great option to wear over a classic plaid or solid button-down, as it keeps the look polished yet add more of a laid-back feel. This simple styling technique is especially great for layering newbies because these are pieces you most likely already have in your wardrobe.

For more layering recommendations to keep you ready for the weather, check out Instyle.

Published on HOLR Magazine.