Lessons In Layering: This Season’s Must-Try Styling Tricks
From turtlenecks worn under shirts to everyday basics elevated with knitwear and lace – here’s the lowdown on how to layer like a fashion pro
Fall signals a shift not only in the weather but our wardrobes, too – one that calls for cozy knits and versatile layers. Done properly, wrapping up for the cold can be a masterclass in multifunctional dressing, where layering separates can seamlessly take you from dawn to dusk, indoors to outdoors, and negate the need for bulky outerwear when you want to feel polished. So, what do you need to curate your closet for the season ahead? Here’s how to master the art of layering now…
Opt for an oversized coat
The key to minimizing bulk when layering is to opt for looser silhouettes on top. Since a coat is the very last addition to an outfit, it makes sense to opt for one roomy enough to wear over chunky knits, leather jackets and blazers. Ticking every box, Toteme’s exquisite ‘Shield’ coat comes in an enveloping double-breasted shape that easily accommodates all the above and looks so chic when worn open over a suit. Wear yours with Max Mara’s ‘Segnale’ blazer – the collarless design will keep the overall look neat and streamlined – and pants in the same shade, then finish off with ballet flats or ankle boots.
Reconsider your basics
In order to navigate chilly commutes and crisp winter weekends in the city, it’s time to double down on the hardworking staples that will see us through shifting temperatures in style. This season, the easiest way to make those core pieces feel fresh is all in the styling: think business-like shirts from Aimé Leon Dore either layered over a turtleneck or worn underneath a lightweight cardigan, which instantly takes this look from the boardroom to a casual brunch. Paired with Citizens of Humanity x Argent’s ‘Ayla Baggy’ high-rise wide-leg jeans from our NET SUSTAIN edit and a sharp blazer by Alaïa, this look is giving a minimalist, New York-commuter aesthetic – especially when teamed with sunglasses (either to shield tired eyes or protect against the winter sun) and a slouchy leather tote, such as Gucci’s ‘Horsebit’ in butter-soft tan leather.
Soften tailoring with knitwear and lace
Just as the ’90s wardrobes of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy (soon to be portrayed by actor Sarah Pidgeon in Ryan Murphy’s anthology series American Love Story) and Kate Moss continue to populate the mood boards of the style set, so too does the ascendance of another of the decade’s biggest trends: the lingerie slip dress. You might be wondering what this slinky style has to do with fall layering – but tastemakers are proving it’s one of the savviest ways to elevate everyday staples. Wear Saint Laurent’s black silk slip over wide-leg pants – Toteme’s crisp white pair is perfect – then layer a boxy tee on top (a cropped shape will allow the lace hem of the dress to take center stage). An oversized trench finishes off the look. Another trick from the ’90s is to tie a cashmere knit around your shoulders or waist, which looks especially chic with sculptural tailoring – the softness of the fabric creates an elegant contrast.
RELATED READING
The people featured in this story are not associated with NET-A-PORTER and do not endorse it or the products shown