The colder seasons are always a little bit exciting for me as it’s time to start having fun with fall/winter layering. When I stock up for my fall/winter wardrobe, I’m always looking for pieces that will layer amazingly, like light weight cardigans, sleeveless knits and roomy coats. Because you’re layering up to keep warm, this is also a good way to turn a lot of your spring/summer pieces transeasonal and make them go all year long. So here are my three principles for fall/winter layering.

Create contrast

When you’re layering up, there’s practically no point if it all just blends together. You want to be able to really see the different layers. Play with different lengths, colours and fabrics. For this outfit, I started with a crisp white silk shirt by Frame Denim, and added a navy blazer and Lilya faux fur vest over the top. While the blazer and vest are both dark in colour, the different textures set each other off just enough to give a sense of depth. It’s also important to let your different layers show through. So make sure you roll up your sweater or jacket sleeve a little bit to let the shirt underneath show through.

Stay balanced

The key to a great layered outfit is balance. If you’ve packed on the volume on top, then make sure you’re wearing fitted bottoms, and vice versa. Balance out long lengths by adding more interest up top, like a chunky scarf or a wool hat. If you’re wearing boots, then skinny jeans, leggings or a skirt that shows a bit of leg will help to break up the boxy shapes.

Be creative

Fall/winter layering is the one time you can get away with a lot of what would normally be considered fashion faux pas. Wear two (or three) jackets at once, layer a denim jacket under your winter coat, wear vests on the outside of your jacket, layer a dress over flared jeans. If anyone questions it, you’re just trying to keep warm, ok! So just have fun with it!

Faux Fur Vest – Lilya
Blazer – Thrifted
Silk Shirt – Frame Denim (Edwards Imports)
 Cropped Skinny Jeans – Rag & Bone
Ankle strap flats – Proenza Schouler
Shopper Tote – Celine
Watch – Daniel Wellington