Written by The Strategy

Like many things in life, good style takes time to perfect. We are constantly learning what works (and what doesn’t), and changing our personal style. Along the road to personal style discovery there are speed bumps, expectedly. One of those speed bumps is the concept of layering.

Layering, I’ve decided, is a skill. A talent, if you will. One that I’m striving to master with every cold weather outfit I put together. Layering comes into play with both practicality and style, which is a rare concept that should be fully pursued. Except that it falls in line with everything that looks deceptively effortless. Also on that list are messy hair, “no makeup” makeup, and looking like you have your life together.

Then again, I have a knack for over thinking things.

That being said, through my envious observation of those who have the layering talent, I’ve figured that four important criteria must be considered when trying to figure it out for yourself.

Fabrics

Mixing fabrics is what creates that top-level layered look. Typically, going for fabrics that have some kind of complimentary balance is the best option. Something substantial like wool goes well with something breezy like silk— a winning combo.

Texture

Texture and fabric go hand-in-hand. Again, balance is important. Combining textures adds the interest to the layers. Even wearing all black can look more interesting by having different textures layered on top of one another. A cotton t-shirt under a slinky dress, for example.

Colour(s)

Speaking of all black, for the layering novices (like me), neutral colours are always a safe bet. For the bold few, colour, or multiple for the truly brave, can certainly work. Having one stand out colour or pattern on an outfit that’s otherwise paired down is a norm among the layering-gifted.

Shape

A final consideration for your layering adventure is to think about the overall shape you’re creating. While some might want to look like they have a bubble of personal space carved out for them by the volume of their layers, it’s not everyone’s end goal.

Combining the perfect mix of these elements should, in theory, lead to the perfect layered look. Accomplishing a put together layered look might take time, but the effort is well worth it.

Written by Katrina Garofalo

*Image via cloudycloudy.de