Layering Made Easy
Do you find yourself struggling to dress appropriately when
going from the tropical weather outdoors — even with the rainy season
— to air-conditioning that greets you the minute you start your morning
commute? Fluctuating temperatures can present fashion dilemmas of the
layering kind. How much is too much, and how can you pile on clothing
stylishly?
“Start simple,”
says Anne Bella, former fashion editor at Preview
Magazine and in-house fashion stylist for the SM Department
Store chain. “Practice with the items you already have: a
sweater over a button-down shirt, a vest over a polo, or a cardigan over
your favorite sundress.”
Building
Your Best BaseBella advises wearing a thin
base layer to minimize bulging and bumps, and to keep a neat look
overall. “Layering thin fabrics is a must in hot and humid
places, especially if you’re doing it for fashion,”
says Bella. “However, make sure your top layer serves its
purpose and will keep you warm in air-conditioning.” Try a
sheer lace top under a thin knit sweater or cardigan. “Avoid
wool, fur or any thick fabric, unless you don’t mind looking
like a (sweaty) fool.”A
great top-layer investment is a thinly lined navy blazer, which goes
with practically everything. When traveling, it’s also an easy
way to look dressed-up and stay warm and
comfortable at the terminal, which tends to be colder than expected.
Cute and Classic CombosTry these
stylist-approved buildable wardrobe pairings:
For a classic preppy look,
layer a lightweight sweater over a pique polo
shirt.On a breezy, rainy day, don a turtleneck
shirt over or under a sundress.For a no-frills
layering option, wear a cardigan over a tank top. This also tempers the
skimpy factor of a low-cut tank.Feeling trendy? Try
the androgynous look by layering a tuxedo jacket over a cocktail
dress.
Make
Use of Color“Color is always key
in layering. Make sure the ones you choose complement each other or have
meaningful contrast,” says Bella. “Texture also
makes things interesting: A sequined top under a knit cardigan creates a
unique statement.” Speaking of cardigans, a pop of color can
tone down the frump factor. Try one in mustard, tangerine or violet. If
you work at a place where a loud-colored cardi isn’t exactly
office-appropriate, try a classic hue in a modern boyfriend cut, and
accessorize it accordingly with a vibrant cobalt skinny belt, a
bejeweled pin or an elegant brooch.
As for
accessories, you can go minimalist or all-out statement. “It
all depends on your personal style and what type of layering you put
together,” says Bella, who suggests wearing a contrasting
leather cuff with a ladylike ensemble if you’re daring, or
pairing a costume statement necklace with a simple T-shirt, jeans and
sweater. “Accessories should anchor or complement a
look,” she says.Wrap It
UpIf layering isn’t your thing, a
chic and warm alternative is a scarf. Celebrities like Sarah Jessica
Parker, Camilla Belle and Jessica Alba may be responsible for
popularizing scarves for all-year wear. Actress and singer Selena Gomez
claims she wears hers even when outside temps reach 100 F!