The DOs and DON’Ts of layering

Not many people can carry off the layered look. Typically über tall, skinny minnies suit the look best. For all us non-super models - and mere mortals - successful layering can take some mastering.

I for one need some serious help when it comes to layering. When I layer, my primary objective is to keep warm. All fashion goes out the window. I throw on as many jumpers as humanly possible and trust me, it’s not a pretty sight. I go from thin arms and torso to obese city. Or should that be obesity? I become Mr Blobby. You know something is seriously wrong when you can no longer lift your arms…

In England you have to expect the unexpected. We rarely have sun but when we do, everyone gets a little too excited and dusts off their sunglasses / flip flops ready. Which then usually scares off the sun. But we won’t go there. It may be sunny, but step outside and it’ll be freezing. UK weather never makes any sense. Layering if mastered, can provide great security and versatility. You can add / remove layers as you please throughout the day. And if done right, layering can also help to balance out certain figures. Long torsos can be broken up. Larger hips and bums can be concealed. But be warned: Do not over do it if you’re not blessed with height – or you’ll risk looking even shorter. 

After a bit of research, I have learnt the DO’s and DON’Ts of layering:

DON’T…

•  … use lots of thick, bulky layers – you’ll end up looking bigger than you are. And being able to move your limbs is kind of important…
• … use too many colours – or you’ll look like a rainbow. And not in a good way.
• … layer up in just one colour or you may appear blob like. A mixture of light and dark shades is a lot more flattering

DO...

• … wear thin layers – use thicker knits and such on top only 
• ... use darker colours on your outer layers and lighter colours underneath – this is more flattering for most body shapes
• … layer your lower half too. Chunky knit socks look so cute peeking out of boots
• … layer loose / floaty garments over fitted ones

  
What should I layer with?

The possibilities are endless:

• Scarves / snoods
• Vests / long + short tops
• Leggings / tights
• Blouses / shirts
• Dresses
• Gilets

There are lots of bloggers who do layering well but sometimes I question how warm their outfits actually are. The point of layering is to be warm after all!

With this post I want to prove that you can be warm and fashionable in these cold, cold times. You don’t have to compromise on style in order to keep warm. I think that the following people on Lookbook embody this fabulously:

1. I am the biggest fan of capes / kimonos / shawls

 2. A fabulous example of wearing thicker layers on the outer layers 

 3. This outfit looks so toasty. The cardigan pattern is just amazing

 4. In LOVE with the cardigan and chunky knit scarf. Great combinations of colour.

In (very) exciting news, I had an interview with the Gucci Group this week :) It was a true “pinch me” moment. I then received a call inviting me to a second (and final) interview later this week. It’s now between myself and one other person. Crazy huh? Keep your fingers crossed for me!