There’s something about fall that gets us all warm and fuzzy – inside and out. But the crisp and cool air is often followed by warmer afternoon temps that can you leave all hot and bothered.
Thankfully, there’s a style of layering that works for every occasion, whether you’re commuting to the office or walking around town on the weekend. We asked Jamie Frankel, a fashion stylist in New York City, to share her thoughts on combining transitional trends in a way that looks effortlessly chic while remaining comfortable.
“Layering provides an opportunity to craft unique silhouette combinations and incorporate unexpected, fashion-forward elements such as texture, print, and color into an otherwise ordinary look,” she says. Flex your style muscle this season by piling on some of these unexpected pairings.
Photo: @aimeejones_stylist
Statement Tights + Ripped Jeans
No need to pack away your ripped denim just yet. Slip on a pair of fishnet, sparkly, or bright-colored tights underneath to keep warm while looking cool. “Use tights with caution, though,” warns Frankel. “When incorporating a statement tight, keep the rest of the look simple.” She recommends pairing them with vintage Levi’s and a relaxed white t-shirt. Try Wolford Net Tights in Dark Cyan ($67; wolfordshop.com) or Modcloth Accent Your Ensemble Tights in Curry ($13; modcloth.com).
Photo: Dries Van Noten
A Maxi Dress + Blouse
Layering a patterned maxi over a blouse is the perfect way to pull off an otherwise summery dress come sweater-weather. “It’s important to choose pieces in luxe fabrics – a crisp shirt with a gorgeous silk or suede dress for balance,” says Frankel. If you’re feeling fashionably brave, go for a pattern-clashing pair, like this Mara Hoffman Striped Organic Linen Maxi Dress ($425; netaporter.com) and Elie Tahari Martha Blouse ($298; neimanmarcus.com). Finish the look with boots or stilettos.
Photo: @chrisellelim
A Sweater + Not-So-Intimate Apparel
When it comes to layering, tbh, nothing is off limits – including your undergarments. A lacy bralette over a fitted sweater may seem a bit racy for daytime wear, but when done right, the delicate finish will be a welcomed style upgrade. “It’s the perfect combination of sexy and sophisticated,” says Frankel. “This pair projects a strong, feminine confidence without looking overly suggestive.” Layer the Aerie Padded Romantic Lace Bralette ($25; ae.com) over the J.Crew Mockneck Sweater in Merino Wool ($118; jcrew.com).
Photo: @from_fashion2lifestyle
Fur Coat + Sweatshirt
Mother Nature has been in one hell of a mood lately, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise if temps dip sooner than expected. Instead of reaching for your down coat at the first sign of winter, toss a stylish fur coat over casual hoodie for street-style-inspired warmth. “The hoodie helps ground the fur for everyday wear,” says Frankel. A good (faux) option: Topshop Faux Fur Coat ($150; topshop.com).
Photo: H&M
Robe Coat + Jeans
If you’re comfortable rocking your undergarments on top, then you likely won’t shy away from the robe coat trend. Essentially, it’s a fresh take on a trench. Frankel recommends looking for one that is longer and looser. Try a traditional kimono style or go for a more structured satin duster, like the Long Sating Coat by H&M ($60; hm.com). Pair with cropped jeans and heels or embellished flats, so you don’t look like you just rolled out of bed.
Photo: Mums Handmade
Granny Cardigan + Shorts
Your grandma was onto something when she knitted you that chunky cardigan. Not only are oversized sweaters cozy AF, but they also add a touch of seasonal style. Pay attention to proportions, though. While the temps are still a bit warmer, toss one over shorts and a fitted shirt to show off your shape. We like the Mums Handmade Warm Up Cardigan ($265; mumshandmade.com) shown above.
