When the leaves start changing and the temperatures drop, it’s time to swap out those summer tanks and flip-flops for cozy sweaters, hoodies and boots. Knowing exactly how to dress at this time of year can be a bit tricky, though. Temperatures can fluctuate a lot throughout the day, making it difficult to know exactly what to wear. That comfy sweater might feel awesome when you are heading to work first thing in the morning, but you could find yourself sweltering under all that wool by mid-afternoon.
The best way to solve this dilemma, of course, is to dress in layers. Each fall, designers find stylish new ways to play with layers and create looks that are perfect both for the runway and for the office. Whether you have a passion for fashion or you are just looking for ways to stay comfortable all day this fall, here are some layering rules and tips to keep you comfortable and looking your best!
USING LAYERS TO REGULATE YOUR BODY TEMPERATURE
Before we get into the tips and tricks, let’s take a moment to discuss how layers should be worn to regulate body temperature. During the fall, it is best to dress in soft, thin layers that can be removed as needed. Whether you are getting ready for a day at the office or prepping for your morning jog, wearing three layers is a good rule of thumb.
The base layer keeps you dry (more on that later), the second layer traps warm air close to your body and the third layer protects you from wind, snow and rain. Wearing multiple thin layers allows for greater freedom of movement and keeps you more comfortable than wearing a single heavy layer.
Always Start with the Thinnest Layer
When layering shirts, the thinnest layer should always be worn closest to your body. In addition to allowing you to layer without adding too much bulk, starting with a thin layer helps keep you dry. Start with a thin, basic t-shirt that is semi-fitted. Choose a moisture-wicking fabric like cotton that absorbs moisture and keeps it away from your skin. For the ultimate comfort, try a super-soft 100 percent ringspun cotton tee as your base layer.
Next, add a dress shirt, a sweater or a cardigan. For your outermost layer, choose a jacket, wool peacoat or trench coat that is long enough to cover the other layers. Make sure it fits loosely enough to be comfortable but isn’t too oversized to avoid looking sloppy or unnecessarily bulky. The colder the temperature is where you are, the thicker your outer layer should be. If it is snowing or raining, your outer layer should also be water-resistant.
Add Variety
You don’t need to put away your colorful clothing just because summer is over. While brown, black and navy are undeniably great colors for fall, there is no reason to tuck away your purples, pinks and even turquoises until next year. Rather than going all out, add variety to your fall outfits by layering in pops of color. Try something like a brightly colored dress shirt worn under a neutral sweater. Or wear a colorful tee with a black or gray blazer or cardigan. The key to wearing brighter summer colors during the fall is to use them subtly.
You can also add a bit of variety by mixing and matching patterns and textures. Subtlety is important here, too, so don’t go crazy. A plaid or striped dress shirt looks great with a solid dark blazer or jacket. You could even wear tees with subtle floral patterns or other designs–as long as you pair them with more neutral outer layers.
Be Mindful of Proportion
When layering several pieces, it is easy for proportions to get a bit out of control. If you plan on wearing a belted chunky sweater over a lightweight t-shirt, go for slim, tailored pants rather than a baggy pair. If you are wearing flowy on the bottom, go for a more fitted look on top. Cropped jackets go well with long skirts and pants. Whatever you wear, make sure it is balanced and proportionate.
Never Sacrifice Comfort
No matter how great a layered outfit looks, it still needs to feel great. Who wants to be stuck wearing something bulky and feeling like the Michelin Man all day? When it comes to layering, it is always best to stick with comfortable, lightweight garments that will keep you warm without weighing you down. Keep in mind, also, that several lightweight layers will actually keep you warmer than a single heavy layer. Air becomes trapped in between multiple layers of clothing, and as your body warms it up, the trapped air acts as insulation.
Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Accessories
The right accessories can tie any outfit together. The right accent pieces can do a lot more than complete your look, though. They can also help you stay warm. A nice scarf made from cashmere or merino wool adds a lot of style and also keeps your neck warm. Hats and gloves are always great additions, too. You may not need them while you are in the office, but they will keep you toasty warm and looking great during your commute.
FASHIONABLE LAYERED LOOKS
The tips listed above are good general guidelines for layering your clothing, but if you are staring at your closet with no idea of what to actually wear, you aren’t alone. Layering isn’t particularly difficult, but if it isn’t something you are familiar with, creating the perfect outfit can be tricky. Here are a few ways to use staples you likely already have in your wardrobe along with some new pieces to create layered styles that are appropriate for work and play.
Transform a Maxi Dress
Love wearing maxi dresses during the summer? They’re great for fall, too! These easy-breezy dresses can easily be layered to create looks that are appropriate for cooler weather. Wear a nice sweater or long-sleeve top over your favorite maxi and add a belt to accentuate your waist. Put on a pair of your favorite boots, and you will be ready for a day at the office or a night on the town.
Pro Tip: If your dress features a summery print, be sure to pair it with a darker, solid-colored top and neutral boots for a more fall-appropriate look.
Update Any Look with Tights
When it is time to update your fall wardrobe, you can’t go wrong with tights. Every woman should have a few opaque pairs in black, gray, brown and other fall-appropriate colors like burgundy and navy. They can be worn under dresses, skirts and shorts to provide some much-needed warmth and keep you looking great during the fall months.
Tights are also great to have on hand to wear under slacks or jeans on those especially chilly days. While they may not be seen, they provide a cozy base layer to help you stay warm when the temperature plummets.
Use a Button-Up Top for Layering
Button-up tops are great for layering. They can be worn in several fashionable ways, so they are a must-have for any fall wardrobe. Wear one untucked under a sweater with the collar and tails peeping out or wear it under a vest or cardigan. Your favorite button-up can also be worn either open or tied over a dress or open over your favorite t-shirt.
Pro Tip: If you are planning on wearing a button-up under a lightweight sweater and want a smoother look, try wearing a fitted tank top over the button-up and under the sweater. This extra layer helps conceal the buttons and keep things smooth without adding a lot of bulk. It also helps keep you a bit warmer on those extra-chilly days.
Tie Your Ensemble Together with a Vest
A nice vest is a perfect way to add an extra layer and tie your entire ensemble together. No matter how many layers you are wearing, adding a tailored vest creates a polished look that is just as cozy as it is stylish. And unlike a heavy jacket, a vest won’t obstruct the use of your arms. Even the puffiest down vest will leave your arms free, enabling you to go about your day with ease.
IN CONCLUSION
Fall is the perfect time to put your layering skills to the test. Regulating your body temperature throughout the day can be extremely difficult at this time of year but dressing in layers certainly helps. Choose lightweight layers that can easily be added and removed to ensure all-day comfort and take care to adorn yourself in garments that do not add a lot of extra bulk or restrict your movement.
Whether you shop for a brand-new fall wardrobe or you incorporate your favorite pieces from the summer, there are several ways to use layers to create looks that are just as comfortable as they are trendy. From the basic t-shirt paired with a tailored blazer to a maxi dress worn under a button-up shirt, layered looks are as synonymous with fall as pumpkin spice lattes!
