Layering

According to Dictionary.com, Layering is defined as "the wearing of lightweight or unconstructed garments one upon the other, as to create a fashionable ensemble or to provide warmth without undue bulkiness or heaviness." Exactly. Basically all you are doing is putting on more than necessary for the sake of fashion, and you know what? I love it.

The key to good layering is to think about the necklines of what you are wearing. If you alter the necklines of what you are wearing you will be able to see the most of what you have on underneath. Most often, the dress shirt is the bottom layer (with the exception of a t-shirt if you want to show a crew neck collar). This creates the height around the neck area and with a dress shirt being buttoned up the middle it will fall to either side if not fastened. This then works wonders when worn under a v-neck sweater or a vest of some sort. To top it all off you can throw a blazer or jacket over it all and complete the rule of 3. This is a little rule I follow when layering during the Autumn/Winter fashion season. The rule basically states that a properly layered outfit must be at least 3 layers deep (and a tie can count as a layer).

The wonderful part about layering is that the last layer doesn't HAVE to be the longest or most visible. Let's take Mr. Model up on the right... I want to call him Ian. As you can see, Ian used the "puffer vest" as the last item but still creates that wonderful "bundled" look. Another thing you may notice in the pictures I have supplied is the glorious use of cold-weather accessories. While not a layering item, they dovetail perfectly with the look we are creating. Hats, gloves, and scarves can help to flush out the total ensemble or add a much needed splash of color to a drab outfit. This being said, keep in mind where your color "pops" are going to draw the human eye. Model number 1 (with her entire styling team) has done a perfect job of drawing your eyes instantly to the neckline and then secondly down to the hands. You wouldn't want someone to be staring at your shoes and then your belt-line, now would you? Final verdict: go to the closet and try stacking up your pieces in new and fresh ways to get that extra mile out of your "last season" gear.