It’s that mind boggling time of year again, when the chilly morning air has you digging out your cosy Winter knits, but by lunchtime you’re sweating buckets! So how do you nail your outfit for everything the day throws at you? The answer is in the layering, my friend.
Not only is layering your outfit the practical solution to your daily battle between the elements and the central heating, but it’s actually pretty darn stylish too. Try not to get too carried away though, or you’ll be at risk of looking like Joey wearing all of Chandler’s clothes at once…and that’s a pretty tough look to pull off.
From casual weekend wear, to office appropriate attire, here are our some of our top tips for layering your outfit this season.
1) Invest in a good coat
As the temperature drops, your coat suddenly becomes the most valuable item in your wardrobe and seeing as you’ll be wearing it day-in-day-out over the colder months, it’s definitely something worth investing in. It’s your coat that will form the shell of your outfit for the best part of the season, so we recommend you find a quality staple item that will lend itself to be paired with a large part of your wardrobe.
A classic peacoat is perfect for taking your outfit from day to night, looking equally as stylish worn over your business suit as it does your favourite jeans and jumper ensemble. For a slightly lighter option that’s suited to formal occasions, a smart mac may fit the bill.
A parka gives off a slightly more laid back vibe, however you won’t beat the warmth that it can provide on those chilly winter days!
SHOP: Aquascutum Camel Logan Coat / Canada Goose Slate Carson Parka / Hugo Boss Black Dias Mac / Barbour Navy Reefer Jacket
2) Layer from thickest to thinnest
A rule of thumb when layering is to keep your lightest layers closest to your skin. You are then free to build up your outfit with chunkier layers, without creating a bulky silhouette. Not only does this create a more flattering look, but it’s also a lot more comfortable and allows for you to shed the heavier items easily when you need to cool off.
An undershirt or lightweight t-shirt works well as a bottom layer, for optimal comfort and breathability.
SHOP: Boss White Crew Neck Undershirt/ Polo Ralph Lauren Navy Check Shirt / John Smedley Navy Cleves Pullover
3) Think it through
Rather than just throwing everything you can find in your wardrobe together and hoping for the best, think through every layer that you add to your look. Make sure that each item works well with each other, as well as as part of the whole outfit, as by doing so it means you can shed a layer without undoing all your hard work finding the perfect combo. Things to consider when putting your look together are what colours and textures will complement each other, as well as maintaining the same vibe throughout the look.
SHOP: Armani Jeans 1981 T-Shirt / Polo Ralph Lauren Performance Sweatshirt / Barbour International Ouston Hooded Jacket / Replay Anbass Jeans
4) Mix up your textures
Keep your look interesting by getting creative with different textures. By no means does this mean you have to get all experimental with latex or something equally as brave, but by simply by mixing your cotton shirt, with a chunky knit and wool overcoat, for example, you can add some depth and personality to your look. It’s as simple as that!
SHOP: Boss Slim Fit Jarret Shirt / Polo Ralph Lauren Crew Neck Jumper / Aquascutum Logan Coat
5) Don’t forget your accessories
Not only will your winter accessories keep you snug on those chilly winter days, but if done right they can add that all important finishing touch to your outfit. By adding a knitted beanie hat or a chunky scarf to your look, it can instantly upgrade an otherwise understated outfit. A pair of leather gloves can also add a refined touch to your look and are ideal for maintaining an element of sophistication when a formal dress code is required.
SHOP: Barbour Cassop Beanie Heat / Boss Kilox Leather Glasses / Armani Jeans Ribbed Scarf / Fred Perry Herringbone Flat Cap / Barbour Gloves and Scarf Set
6) Pick the right shoes
No outfit is complete without a good pair of shoes and some may even say they have the potential to make or break your look, so no pressure! The UK isn’t exactly well known for it’s exotic climate, so you’re best off opting for something weatherproof over the Winter months, as there’s nothing worse than walking around with soggy feet!
Boots are a great choice for this time of the year, as they’re durable, provide warmth and can usually offer efficient grip in wet conditions. For the weekend, you can’t really beat a pair of chunky Timberlands, as they’re heavy duty and are sure to keep you protected from the elements.
For a slightly smarter look, a leather Chelsea or Derby boot offers the ultimate versatility, looking equally as fantastic paired with your business suit, as they do a pair of skinny jeans. Suede designs can add a really stylish element to your outfit, however be wary of wearing them in wet conditions to avoid damage.
SHOP: Timberland Premium 6 Inch Boot / Polo Ralph Lauren Odie Boot / Grenson Nolan Chelsea Boot / Paul Smith Jarmon Derby Boot / Hudson Keating Brogue
