Layering (or “dressing like an onion”): the 10 tricks you need to know

Winter is coming. Although climate change pushes the arrival of frost further and further every year, we must surrender to the evidence that the cold season is upon us. Which, translated into fashionista terms regarding the winter wardrobe, means only one thing: layering.

The art of stratification – or, as we once said, of dressing “like an onion” – is intuitive in its primary intent, that is overlap several items to achieve the desired degree of heat, but it can prove a difficult undertakingespecially for those who are beginners in terms of styling, and above all because the feared “Michelin Man effect” is always around the corner. When it comes to layering means a minimum of 3 layers for the same outfit, with a maximum ideally of 5, which can rise as desired for those who are truly experts in the subject. We at Vanity we have drawn up a series of valuable advice for dealing with the drop in temperatures without lowering the style bar, a real one decalogue of trick inspired by street style from all over the world with practical examples that are inexperienced-proof.

10 infallible tips to implement immediately

If outerwear is definitely the main element that cannot be ignored, as well as the basis for the construction of every look, it is the layout of the levels that makes the difference. The wisdom of grandmothers has always supported the importance of having items available that are easy to put on and take off when entering a heated place from outdoors or, to protect oneself from the inevitable temperature changes that occur during the day.

1 Play it safe with monochrome

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Dress from head to toe in the same color or in closely related shades of the same shade is the perfect way to avoid making mistakes when pairing. The important thing is to play with the different weights of the various elements, alternating the heavier ones with more impalpable ones, so that the outfit is not too monotonous and the right movement is created.

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2 Reverse the order of the addends

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We need to break away from the classic patterns. Who said that the blazer has to be worn under the coat or that the skirt cannot be combined with trousers? A creative interpretation of layering allows you to create ensemble always new and very personal, while at the same time ensuring a upgrades of heat where it is needed most. The only rule to follow is not to mix too many different prints or too many contrasting colors, so as to avoid looking like you are dressed haphazardly rather than trendy.

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3 Calibrate the aspect ratio

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Proceed for compensation: if as above you choose a large down jacket, as below you need a pair of skinny jeans or a mini skirt that leaves your legs in plain sight, preferably wrapped in a pair of opaque tights. Conversely, if you want to show off a pair of oversized trousers underneath, you need a fitted top and a fitted jacket on top.

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4 Add a color boost

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To liven up a basic look, that’s enough add one or more colored elements flash, perfect for breaking the monotony and also for bringing a little light into the gloomiest days. The easiest move is to focus on accessories eyecatchinglike a rainbow scarf, but also a sorbet-colored coat is an investment absolutely worth making.

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5 Emphasize the waistline

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This is a golden rule that applies to all stylingbut it is particularly crucial when talking about stratifications. The volume of the silhouette must always be shaped, under penalty of irremediable bundling up, even when you opt for oversized garments. All you need is a belt or a sash tightened at the waist, both under and over the outerwear, and you’re done. If you leave the jacket open, the sweater, shirt and/or sweatshirt must absolutely be refunded inside the piece underneath.

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6 Mix mood and materials

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Also in this case the green light is given to creativity to give life to put with original and never predictable stratifications, useful for using the wardrobe items in a circular way. Any examples? The classic, slightly formal pinstripe suit becomes easier if combined with the denim jacket and the graphic down jacket, while the bomber jacket in technical fabric takes on a more carefree air when combined with the sweater withallure french and the lace coat macrame.

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7 Croppa in the right places

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Give it a rest, In the true sense of the word. To give impetus to the figure, move the outfit and optically break up only where needed, proceed with scissors at the hems of the trousers and sleeves, or choose garments directly boxyor with short and slightly boxy fit. The accessories also contribute to the success of the final look: a couple of cuissardes above the knee ensures determination and also an extra layer of strategic warmth on the legs.

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8 Masculine and feminine, together

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A great way to create outfits with a high level of layering is stealing pieces from the men’s wardrobestructured both by volumes and cuts to support different levels of layering. Blazers and coats are looser by definition, and even sports-inspired elements, such as blousons and jackets, are better suited to accommodating layering. The trick is knowing how to give everything a twist more feminineperhaps adding a leader furry and colourful, or by inserting flirtatious accessories, such as high-heeled shoes and classy handbags.

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9 The transversal power of denim

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If there is a fabric that tolerates and supports layering par excellence, it is undoubtedly jeans. The most loved indigo-colored canvas in the world allows you to modulate weights and lengths like few others. It is not enough? It adapts to different occasions of use, carries over from one season to another and goes well with practically everything. So the trucker jacket it is worn over the sweater, but under the maxi down jacket, while the denim shirtdress bought in spring is casually layered over the wool turtleneck, the floor-length cardigan and the high leather boots.

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10 Bonus track: the strategic sweater

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You need a boost of heat that is always at hand? A chunky knit wool sweater is enough to tie around the neck like a scarf or to place on the lapels of the coat like a shawl. Ingenious and space-saving, it can be stored in the bag or tied to the waist once it is no longer needed.

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Source: Vanity Fair

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