A Guide to Making Layering Chic
At first glance, layering with intention can feel intimidating. It’s tempting to just throw on a giant black puffer, your thick gloves from the annual ski trip, and your favorite fuzzy socks and sweats. But with a few ideas and a little creativity, winter can actually become one of the most fun seasons to dress for. Read on for fresh ways to elevate your cold-weather outfits—often using pieces you already own—so you can stay both polished and warm all season long.
Trench layered over cardigan and tank
This look always reads effortlessly chic. To pull it off, reach for a longer trench coat layered over a neutral cardigan. For shoes, try classic loafers or even Boston birkenstock clogs for a more casual vibe. And don’t be afraid to experiment with proportions—on a warmer day, a mini skirt styled with a long trench creates a striking, fashion-forward combo that’s sure to earn compliments.
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Button down under denim jacket- canadian tuxedo vibe
Denim on denim has been trending for a while now, and I’m loving this elevated take that layers a button-down underneath. It instantly feels more polished—maybe even office-appropriate. For a more laid-back vibe, swap the button-down for a solid-colored hoodie. The pop of red here is perfect, but a classic grey works just as well. Finish the look with hoops and a messy bun.
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Cardigan under blazer
Similar to the trench coat look, layering a cardigan under a blazer is another great option. Button the top and add a tank underneath for extra dimension, or keep it simple with a lightweight crewneck—you really can’t go wrong. I’m especially loving the choice of a checked blazer here, as well as the asymmetrical lace tanks that have been trending lately.
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Add a Scarf
This is such an approachable and fun styling trick. The scarf options are truly endless—try a solid color, a stripe, or a classic plaid, and play with thinner or chunkier styles depending on the look you want. This season, the shawl silhouette has also been trending. It’s not quite as warm, but it’s a beautiful choice if you’re going for an elevated, vintage-inspired vibe.
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The hat trick
People often forget how transformative a simple baseball cap can be—it instantly adds that subtle “model off duty” touch to almost any outfit. A classic dad cap always works, but a headband can be just as chic. These accessories also pair beautifully with a winter scarf; the more cold-weather pieces you incorporate, the more fun your outfits feel, especially when your coat rotation starts to lose its excitement.
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Jackets on jackets
Finally, keep embracing the layers. A striped or gingham button-down worn under a leather or barn jacket adds both warmth and visual dimension– just make sure the hemlines line up cleanly. I’m loving a dark brown or caramel jacket paired with a light blue or red accent shirt underneath.
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