There are so so many ways to make any outfit a standout. From fierce ass shoes, to bold accessories, to print mixing, the options are pretty much endless. Today though, we’re going to take a look at how to layer like a pro…
WHY SHOULD I LAYER?
We all layer our clothing to one extent or another. But I’m not talking about simply layering your winter coat over your sweater that’s layered over top of your long underwear. No. I’m talking about layering with intention…layering pieces to give your outfit that little bit of sassiness & fun.
Which brings me to the answer to the question, “Why should I layer?”. I mean, you dressed yourself in an acceptable outfit for the day so isn’t that enough? Sure. If acceptable is good enough for you. But I feel like a fierce badass babe such as yourself desires something beyond acceptable, amirite?
In my opinion, layering is one of the easiest ways to kick an outfit up a notch or ten. Depending on what pieces your working with you can layer over, under or both if you’re feelin’ froggy.
In the winter I often layer longer dresses or skirts over leggings, but that’s more for functionality (warmth) then style. In today’s outfit though it was done with style in mind. Women are sometimes hesitant to layer a dress over leggings or pants, but done right, it can be a really cool look. I bought this black mesh dress specifically for this purpose. It’s perfect for layering over denim or leggings & will give a whole new look to a slip dress when worn over top.
HOW TO LAYER LIKE A PRO
If you want to up your layering game, here are a few key ideas to keep in mind so that you can add some interest to your looks like a pro:
- Nobody wants to look like the Michelin Man so watch out for bulkiness. It’s fine to layer under a chunky knit sweater, but keep the under layers lightweight like I did with this sweater/sundress combo. Side note…sundresses work all year ’round as they make the perfect layering piece.
- Vary the length of the hemlines so that the layers are visible like I did with this look. If you’re using all lighter pieces you can add even more layers to your outfit as well.
- Don’t forget about layering outerwear. Vests are perfect for layering under outerwear like I did with this denim jacket/suede vest combo (bonus points for the scarf that adds an additional level of layering) or over like this fur vest over a moto jacket.
- If you are going to layer over jeans or pants, keep them skinny or fitted. This dress over jeans look wouldn’t be quite the same over looser fit jeans.
- Layering is a pain-free way to ease into print mixing. This striped top over a floral top pairing is a perfect example. I also did a little front tuck & sleeve roll to make sure the floral under layer was visible.
- Throw yourself a little arm and/or neck party. I can’t even remember the last time I wore just one bracelet or necklace. When layering your necklaces be sure to vary the lengths, but you can also vary the metals & materials. I often mix silver, gold or rose gold together & you can also throw in some pearls or beaded pieces as well.
So tell me, is layering your jam? If not, are you ready to give it a try?
LINK UPS
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Mesh Dress: Amazon; Flannel shirt: Similar; Boots: Amazon; Leggings: American Eagle
