8 Ways To Layer Up This Winter, And Still Look Great

Each year we tackle winter in bulky jackets, Ugg boots, thick wool socks, multiple undershirts, and sweaters, like Randy in A Christmas Story, unable to put our arms down. Here are 8 ways to layer up this winter, and still look great, while remaining comfortable and warm, stylish, and chic. 

The basics of layered clothing consist of the base layer; underwear to wick sweat, the insulating layer to retain heat, and the outer layer which shields you from the cold and wind. There are many ways to wear layers and remain stylish. Layering also allows for your outfit to be versatile, as you can remove and add layers depending on your daily routine. Layered clothing is also a fun way to play with your style and mix it up!

1. The First Layer

Ideally, the first layer of clothing, after your underwear, would be tighter fitting, light, and will hug your body. For your first layer, a thinner turtle neck or crew cut top would allow for the body to breathe. Short sleeves would work for climates that do not produce too cold of winters, and a long sleeve undershirt is ideal for climates that get very wet and cold. For extremely cold weather, a thermal underneath the first layer can help to wick anybody sweat and keep you protected from the elements. 

2. The Mid Layer

The Middle Layer serves as insulation for the body to retain heat. The Middle layer is where you can add fashionable pieces that will show underneath your outer layer and can be used as the top layer indoors or as the weather warms. Vests, Sweaters, Cardigans, and blazers are all good options. They can pair nicely with an under-top and can help to showcase your personal fashion. Depending on the weather, you can add a second or even third layer, the possibilities are endless as multiple layers contrast nicely!

3. The Outer Layer

The outer layer shields you from the cold, crisp air and can add a top layer of fashion to the ensemble. When selecting a Jacket, Coat, Vest, Poncho, or Trench Coat think of the length of your other layers and whether or not you want them to be showcased. Padded or down-filled coats help to insulate the heat and are best for staying warm. For 2020, we are seeing Trench Coats become very popular among street stylers and they are chic AF. Try a single-breasted wool coat for a sophisticated look, or the all-time favorite leather jacket or bomber jacket for the days you’re feeling rebellious. You can also layer multiple jackets for the colder days, a cool double-breasted blazer under a longer trench will add dimension and contrast to your outfit. Layered clothing helps to keep you warm and comfortable, using stylish techniques can keep you from feeling drab. 

4. Layering Scarfs

Layering scarfs is another way to add chic layers to your ensemble. Scarfs help to keep the neck and head warm while adding an additional layer to the top half of your outfit. Try a fringed Mohair scarf, Merino Wool, or a striped Wool scarf. Wool scarfs will keep you warm without producing too much heat, allowing for your neck and head to breathe, however, they tend to be a heavier weighted scarf. Mohair is durable and resistant, allowing for your scarf to wick water and sweat away, making it a very comfortable fabric for scarves. Merino wool is a natural fiber that is often lighter than wool making it an easy fabric to wear against the skin. Scarfs can complement any ensemble nicely and can be worn throughout your day or just during your commute during the cold months. Scarfs are a wonderful, versatile accessory that can add a beautiful statement to any outfit!

5. Pair A Lightweight Sweater With A Heavier Undershirt

Pairing a lightweight sweater with a heavier undershirt is a great way to stay warm and comfortable while indoors during the colder months. Lightweight sweaters are often made of cotton or polyester, or a blend of the two and can be worn with a heavier turtleneck or long sleeve shirt. Lightweight sweaters are also easy to accessorize and further layer. Layered clothing does not have to be boring, mix it up with a cropped sweater over a button-down or turtleneck tee. 

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6. Layer With Accessories

Laying accessories can be a fun way to add dimension and textures to your outfit. Layer on a bold necklace (or multiple) over a turtleneck or bulky sweater. During the winter months, designers dress their clients using multiple accessorizing techniques, including jewelry accessories. Layer multiple scarfs, winter earrings, and ear cuffs, as well as bracelets and bold rings. Layered clothing does not have to be the only layers you wear!

7. Add A Hat Or Beanie

Adding a hat or a beanie! The ever-popular Carhartt Beanie is continuing to be trendsetting. They are available in many different colors as well as in men’s and women’s styles. Try a winter hat with ear flaps, a slouchy beanie, Faux fur wool hoods, or cable knit fuzzy poms to keep your head warm and your outfit complete. We all know that it is more difficult to keep your hair tidy while the wind is blowing and the air is moist, hats not only add a fashionable element, but they help to protect your head and scalp from the elements, allowing for you to keep your hairstyle intact.

8. Add Layers With Boots and Socks

Within recent years, longer socks have come back into style. We are seeing longer, ankle-length socks worn with booties and knee-high socks being worn with a taller boot. You can even add layers to the socks with a printed or fishnet leg warmer beneath them. This will add multiple layers of fabric around your leg, ensuring they keep warm while adding different textures and layers to the bottom half of your outfit. They will also create a bold fashion statement, drawing the eye down and elongating the legs. Layered socks are always a fun way to accessorize any boot, short or long. 

With the cold winter months, it is very difficult not to sacrifice your style. However, with these tips, you can stay warm, comfortable, and fashionable throughout the season while eliminating the bulky, marshmallow fluff that we have become accustomed to!