How To Layer For Warmth & Style

By Cady Childs

Every bohemian belle with a common sense of fashion knows that layering key pieces is a great way to look stylish (and stay warm) in winter months. This trend was especially prominent on the runways for the season. However, there can be quite a delicate balance between chic and overbearing – and it is a line easily crossed, even with the best intentions. Luckily, layering can be chic – with a few tips anyway.

The runway manicure that adds style to any look!

The cropped tee’s reintroduction to fashion (thanks to designers such as Proenza Schouler and Alexander Wang), as well as leather, fur and velvet added to every day silhouettes (seen everywhere from Bottega Veneta to Zac Posen), gives us an opportunity to layer in non-bulky and sophisticated ways – and to use mixed fabrics and patterns to add style and character to any look. Plus, going from indoor heat to frigid outdoor temperatures to stuffy subway cars isn’t nearly as uncomfortable when you can just pull off your blazer or add a scarf. Just be sure to vary your fabrics and textures to avoid looking bulkier than usual.

How to layer stylishly…

Cropped Tops. Adding a cropped top underneath an open jacket or cardigan is a fashionable option, perfect for those classrooms and offices where the heat is always set way too high. This look, seen at Ella Moss (simple, dolman sleeved and girly), Alexander Wang (stamped out, striped and punky) and Vince (matte silk), is an easy and fast way to add high fashion to your every day ensemble, while keeping things casual. Add a simple, pastel toned pashmina and or an unbuttoned cardigan to your tee, if it’s patterned. If your top is a solid color, look for a patterned, funkier scarf, sweater or blazer to round out your outfit. For a funkier look, shop for lace tee shirts instead of classic cotton, or button-up crop blouses, like this pale-pink heartbreaker by MinkPink. Pair your cropped top with jeggings and lace-up boots or flats. Just avoid shoes with sparkles or embellishments, as it can appear a bit dated.

The must-have color of the season!

Additional Textures. The fabrics and materials used on the runways were like a rainbow of texture, from velour to silk, taffeta to matte leather, cotton to fur. Add a fun textured and patterned scarf to a rougher looking knit cardigan, pair a silk tee with a faux fur vest or add a faux fur tippet to the collar of your favorite motorcycle jacket. Unexpected pairings are sure to keep your look fresh.

Unusual Scarves. Instead of a solid scarf classically wrapped around your neck, look for unexpected patterns and fabrics. Try striped, tie-dyed, mohair or suede styles. American Apparel’s extra long mohair scarf offers a solid truffle option, as well as five variations of stripes, including a dark khaki and teal combination that adds uniqueness to almost any ensemble. Also, this dash dot patterned scarf from Marc by Marc Jacobs (on sale for $40!) is the perfect pattern to add color to a monochromatic outfit. But the best place to find a unique look is on a thrift hunt- vintage stores always have the best eclectic scarves to play with.

How to vintage shop like a pro!