There are situations where getting dressed is a particularly delicate exercise! We are thinking, for instance, of a first job interview (white or blue shirt?), a first romantic date (looking cool without appearing careless), or a themed wedding (we all know an unconventional friend…).
But we are thinking of a more common situation: autumn and its changeable weather, which has us spending 20min in front of the wardrobe every morning wondering what to wear—not too warm, not too light. Yes, getting dressed during this period can sometimes be a trial. But it can also be seen positively, as an opportunity to discover the secrets of layering!
Did you say “layering”?
What is layering? The term comes from the English word “layer”, meaning “a layer or stratum”. In fashion, it refers to the act of layering different garments. A technique particularly suited to colder seasons, when every means is welcome to stay warm, especially if it adds style!
Garments are layered so that they remain visible, creating a mix of materials and colours and achieving interesting contrasts.
It is therefore important to note that, in addition to its considerable thermal benefits, layering has significant aesthetic and stylistic appeal: garments are layered so that they remain visible, creating a mix of materials and colours and achieving interesting contrasts. It is not simply about putting on as many clothes as possible to avoid excess baggage!
How do you create successful layering? Start by defining a key piece, the one that will stand out most in your outfit (most often your jacket, an overcoat or a heavier shirt). It will guide your choices of colours, materials and proportions. You can then build an outfit in shades of your key piece’s colour, or play with complementary colours and contrasts to make it stand out.
Next, determine the first layer, opting for a T-shirt or a lightweight shirt, or directly for a relatively warm piece, such as a flannel shirt. The great advantage of layering is that you can easily “recycle” pieces from your summer wardrobe, helping you save money and consume more thoughtfully. Our shirts in a linen and ramie blend or lightweight flannel will be perfect.
A little advice: for the first layers, favour relatively neutral, light colours. Layering is a risky exercise if it is not thought through, so start with pieces that are easy to combine and follow a few rules, such as working from light to dark. It is a simple, reliable technique to begin with!
Over this fairly lightweight first layer, you can add a thicker second layer such as a jumper, a flannel or denim shirt. If you opt for a jumper, the idea is to let the first layer show through, such as the collar or a section of the shirt.
You can complete your outfit by pairing a soft work jacket, a jacket, or even a coat if the weather permits. To take it further, consider accessories! A plain or checked scarf, a wool hat, a pair of gloves… anything goes, and layering them adds to the unique character of each outfit, creating a highly personal style.
To get started, begin with just a few pieces in similar tones. Then try introducing patterns, contrasting colours and even more layers (winter is ideal for it). You will discover the endless possibilities offered by layering, daring increasingly bold combinations of statement pieces. Mix materials, colours and patterns—be bold!
See this technique as an opportunity to use all the clothes you own, to rediscover that t-shirt you have had for a few years and give it new life through fresh combinations.
It is also an opportunity to take stock of your wardrobe: what you wear most, the pieces you are missing and those that could enliven your look. In short, save your fleeces and puffer jackets for ski holidays, and layer beautiful garments to forge a unique style!
