Style Guide: Layering

Layering can be tricky; it’s not just a simple case of throwing any old thing over another, you have to consider colour, shape and style (not to mention your height and frame!). This guide will turn you from sloppy to sartorial, so you don’t go out looking like you’re taking your wardrobe with you!

The basics

Let’s start off light – because sometimes, you just want to be warm for a walk down the shops – not the catwalk! But you still might see someone unexpected, so let’s see what works.

Smart – Start off with a long sleeve blouse (and a vest top underneath if it’s frosty!), add a cravat if they’re to your liking. Next up, pop on a waistcoat and a thin cardigan (not too long!), slip on a fitted formal jacket, and cosy up with a nice, smart winter coat, like this Love Label belted trench coat.

Casual – Pop on a vest top, and add either a t-shirt, or a camisole with shirt over the top. Now get yourself a cropped cardigan, add a zip-through hooded top, and finish off with a leather jacket.

Smart-Casual – Begin with a vest top again to keep off the chill. Add a casual blouse/shirt (stay away from whites and creams, and make sure checks match the rest), a casual waistcoat, waterfall cardigan and top it off with a smart jacket/coat, like this smart military coat by South.

The brawn

Any avid reader of fashion news will be aware that layering need not be about staying warm; it’s a statement. The more layers, the more inventive – the better. Prints are also big right now, so go outrageous, and don’t be scared to step outside of your comfort zone every now and then to test the water.

Start by messing around with textures and lengths, knits and furs, belts and tulle; you’ll find your look soon enough, and another few to keep it interesting. Furs are a good tip, and faux fur is an affordable way of keeping warm, and keeping up with fashion; Boots, jackets, scarves, hats – but not all at once, unless you want a reputation as the local yeti, and remember people will do anything to capture bigfoot!

It’s really for you to find your own style here. What suits you, and what you feel comfortable with, so let’s look at a few items and see what we can do.

You’ll want to show off the layers, so if it’s not too chilly, (or you just don’t mind!) throw on a camisole top, this Joe Browns crinkle v-neck tunic, open knit cardigan, and faux fur gilet. Now top it off with a cosy snood and add a hat of your choice!

To go all out and keep the heat all in, try starting with a vest top, adding this Joe Browns flattering retro dress, waterfall cardigan, Joe Browns create your own look top, and this 80’s style fur jacket! Wear skinny jeans, leggings or jeggings on the bottom, and add your cutest shoes.

Remember, it’s down to you to create your own style, so get on the Littlewoods website and get browsing, things you wouldn’t have noticed before might suddenly start making a whole new outfit. Then it’s time to go out and walk the path like a catwalk!

(Our thanks to Craig from our Worcester Contact Centre for the article content, thanks Craig!)