Layering Winter Clothes: Your Everything Guide

What’s the secret to warm winter layering, you ask? It’s all about having the right essentials to hand; cozy pieces that look stylish, feel ultra-comfy, and work with every item in your new-season closet. As long as your layers check each of these boxes, winter dressing becomes totally effortless. So, let’s reveal the must-have items that make layering clothes an easy task…

1. Leggings Under Skirts and Dresses

Shop the look: High Waisted No-Cling Leggings, Premium Cotton Wide Waistband Full Length Leggings

Because bare ankles are a winter no-go; keep legs warm by wearing leggings under your skirts. Beneath maxis, they lend imperceptible warmth, and beneath midis, they add a touch of tonal detail. We particularly love pairing them with a denim midi skirt. Try this combo: a stretch Remi skirt in any color you please, plus a blue or navy pair of leggings. Fool-proof. 

2. Shackets Over Sweaters

Shop the look: Plaid Shacket With Patch Pocket Detail, Austen Oversized Dusty Olive Washed Shacket

Here’s why we love a shacket: in fall or mild winter temperatures (we’re looking at you, Florida), it provides enough warmth to be worn outside over a simple tee or sweater. And then, when the temperatures drop, it offers a stylish alternative to knits indoors, while still being light enough to wear layered underneath your coat. Nothing beats a versatile piece.

 3. Cardigans Over Everything

Shop the look: Oatmeal Kimono Cardigan, Vintage Soft Cable Knit Long Sleeve Button Front Cardigan

For those ‘light layers only’ days, we’re forever fans of a cardigan. They slip on over anything, from tops to dresses, and even thin sweaters if you like to layer up your knitwear. Our secret is making sure you always have at least one neutral cardigan ready – in a gray, black or taupe – plus another in your favorite color. Go for a bold bright or chic print to cheer up those gloomier winter days. 

 4. Vests Over Dresses

Shop the look: Stratton Double Front Pocket Vest, Ivory Open Side Shell Vest

We love this trend. If you want to lend a little extra detail to a simple color block dress or top, just throw a vest on, and bask in that added layer of warmth. Padded vests are perfect for toasty vibes when the temperatures start to plummet, but don’t shy away from sweater vests. They’re back in a big way, and looking ultra-chic. Choose your color palette carefully, opting for camel, beige and dusty tones over similar neutrals. Never has a vest and dress combo been so covetable. 

5. Shawls and Robes Over Loungewear

Shop the look: Softies® Dream Ultra Soft Wrap Robe, Softies® Marshmallow Hooded Shawl

You didn’t just think we were going to talk about ‘going out’ dressing, did you? Layering your loungewear is a must for major coziness, too, and nothing beats a shawl or plush robe. It’s comfy while still making you feel pulled-together – elegant, even. And you can wear it with any off-duty essentials, from pyjamas to lounge sets. Reach for neutral grays and taupes for goes-with-anything style. 

Up next: Discover 6 of the cutest dresses for transeasonal styling.