Mastering the Art of Layering

Every morning, my routine is the same: check phone for weather forecast, then stand in front of my closet for ten minutes, unable to figure out how I’m going to stay warm in the morning, yet not die of heatstroke in the afternoon and how to look cute doing it. You’d be lying if you said you hadn’t had this issue at least once, especially here in Atlanta where the weather is absurdly bipolar. My solution? Layering!

Not only does layering actually help me get through the day, it’s also a huge fashion trend right now. Especially as we head into the fall, it’s definitely the season where less is not necessarily more. That being said, layering has to be done right for it to look chic, fashionable, and most importantly, not bulky. Here’s a step-by-step plan to a perfect fall outfit. 

Step 1: Basics. When you’re playing with layers, it’s important that the first layer is something thin, like a simple tank top, tee or long-sleeved shirt. If you want to amp it up, put on a blouse or a button up shirt with a collar. For your bottoms, throw on a pair of jeans or black pants. Another alternative is a skirt with a pair of pantyhose or knee-high socks.

Step 2: Fashionable Warmth. Over your first layer, put on a lightweight sweater. A crew neck works great over a collared shirt, especially over chambray or plaid! Don’t worry about the shirttails peeking out at the bottom, because this season we want to see them! Same goes for embellishments or pockets on the shirts. We like texture and it doesn’t matter if it comes from the shirt underneath. 

Step 3 (and my personal favorite step!): Jackets, Coats and Blazers. Many fashionistas complain that coats ruin an outfit, but it’s quite the contrary! Coats are incredibly fashionable and come in all different colors and styles. If you haven’t picked yours up yet for this winter, try a pink or a white hue! If it’s still too hot for a coat, try a lightweight or sleeveless overcoat. Another popular trend is a blazer, and my personal favorite way to wear a blazer is to simply drape it over my shoulders. It looks super chic and you avoid being overheated. Plus, if you do get cold, just pop your arms in the sleeves and your look becomes entirely different.