I wore a coat on Friday night, and a scarf too. As I raced down Euston Road with an unruly cabin case to get to Kings Cross station I realised the introduction of such layers was quite unnecessary. However waking up in Yorkshire on Saturday it became clear it’s time to start piling on more clothes.

Obviously, everyone knows layering is popping on a few clothes on top of each other. My problem is I often resemble a Michelin Man. This isn’t a good look for me.
There appears to be an army of fashion bloggers who don’t seem to look like a mascot for a tyre company and look darn stylish too. I’m aiming to steal a bit of their style this autumn and be a bit braver.

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Unexpected combinations

Quite frankly we don’t wear enough sequins. I am in love with Corilynn’s snazzy mash-up of sparkle and plaid and aim to plan a few more unexpected combinations in my own wardrobe.
You see Corilynn’s expertly rolled cuff? There’s a clever little tutorial over on Putting Me Together to get the look yourself without adding bulkiness to your sleeves.

Hitch up

Flash a contrasting inner wear piece underneath your jumper by letting it ride up a little as demonstrated by Ellen Clesson – or just let it half hang out like Blair from Atlantic Pacific. Just something to be aware of though, this will draw attention to your hips and derriere.

Layer up on the outer layers

If I’m travelling on a budget airline in winter I’ll layer my leather jacket under a thicker coat so that I get the choice of two at my destination.
Kat Tanita from With Love from Kat looks effortlessly chic and toasty warm combining a slim fur gilet with a bright woollen coat.

Mix up patterns

Columbine Smille gets it so right here, breaking up monotony with bold contrasting prints. I love the look of leopard print with stripes, but if you’re feeling super brave you could throw in animal with tartan, as seen on the lovely Cara Loren.

Bring on the bling

I’m rarely without a statement necklace. For me nothing jazzes up an outfit like some fake diamonds. I don’t think Olivia Palermo could ever look anything other than amazing but here in particular she takes a casual outfit (well for her) up a notch, and still looks sophisticated even when holding a pretzel.

Layer the bottom half

Layering doesn’t just apply to the top half. Keep your feet cosy and warm by adding a thick pair of wooly socks and casually slide down to create a cuff at the top of the boot a la Lovely Pepa style. I haven’t done this since I used to wear two pairs of tights to school and slouch down my black M&S socks over the top of my ankle boots but I’m willing to give this try this year.

Finishing touches

I couldn’t do a post about layering without mentioned the ultimate winter accessories; hats, scarves and gloves.
I don’t think I’ll be buying a new coat this year so I’ve already treated myself to a few accessories. I’ve just bought a lovely grey H&M fedora and a huge blanket scarf from Zara.

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{Tips to layer like a Pro}
  • Keep your first few layers thin to complement curves rather than add to them.
  • Just like a toddler, I wear a vest almost every day. My absolute favourites are Uniqlo Heat Tech camisoles and sleeveless vests which come in a variety of styles and colours. If you’re wondered what Heat Tech is it’s basically an ultra thin material designed to trap the heat in. I urge you to try one. You will feel much warmer. I promise.
  • Layers can hide a defined waistline. Add a belt around the waist to define your shape.
  • Match neckline shapes if you’re layering cardigans and jumpers over basic tees.
  • Mix patterns and colours so each layer is visible.

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    How do you ‘layer’? What are your tips for staying warm and stylish? Has anyone else worn a coat yet?