How many times have you looked in your closet and realized you have nothing to wear? Staring at a rack full of clothes and wearing the same three outfits every week is a constant struggle for even the most fashionable college girl. So, if your closet feels tired and your wardrobe feels too small, layering is the trick you need to hit the refresh button and expand your options.
Layering is an easy way to put those forgotten pieces sitting in the back of your closet to good use and create brand new looks you haven’t tried yet. Whether it’s the streets at Paris fashion week or the Insta feed of your favorite blogger, layering has become popular for street style stars and bloggers everywhere.
There are several different ways to approach layering, but most pieces you have already can serve more than one purpose if you use them right! Even though layering might require some outside-the-box thinking, checking Pinterest or fashion blogs can help you find inspiration for how to work with the clothes you own. But the good thing is: We’ve done the work for you and have our top layering tips listed below.
1. Use your winter wardrobe in the warmer months
A good place to start with layering is to get out your winter wardrobe and see what you can use from there. Puffy jackets, denim, leather and long overcoats are all great items to use when putting together a sleek look and. You can even use your chunky sweaters and cardigans over some of your lightest dresses to transition your summer clothes into the fall.
Check out style bloggers like Something Navy and get inspo from street style mavens like Kylie Jenner for ideas on how to nail this look.
2. Your basic tank top
Another important tip is to remember the basics. Never underestimate the power of a plain slouchy-tee or tank.
When you’re get creative with layering multiple tops over one another, keeping the colors simple and neutral is important. Sticking with black and white is also a good strategy when first trying out some bold layering styles. Minimalist fashion blogger, Heather Norgord of The Blonde Chic, is a master at layering simple pieces in black, white, and neutral.
3. Go retro and vintage
The other way to go with layers is by sporting a retro look. Using pieces like overalls can bring back a classic twist and mix up your tired weekend outfits. Digging out items from the back of your closet that you never thought you’d wear again, or even grabbing some hand me downs from previous decades (or your mom’s closet) will make you feel like you have a ton of new inspo to work with.
Check out LA based style blogger Amy Roiland of A Fashion Nerd for some vintage inspiration. Her quirky style is great inspiration for using statement pieces and style influences from past decades. She’s a pro at mixing prints and bright colors, so if you’re looking to try out some bolder looks check out her feed for some fun ideas!
4. Try a laid back approach
Have you ever wanted to know how to achieve that simple yet stylish tropical look you see in vacation pics on Instagram? Layering is the perfect way to get the beach style of you’re dreams. Plus, if you’re actually by the beach you’re outfit won’t only be stylist, but it’ll help keep you warm when those chilly ocean breezes hit.
Adding a kimono or surfer girl sweatshirt to a simple tank top and cutoffs are great ways to change up the classic summer staple outfit.
Getting more use out of your closet definitely takes some creativity, but it can be a great way to try out some new styles and explore without breaking the bank.