Well, winter is here—at least sometimes here in Atlanta. Actually, it usually starts off pretty chilly then is warm by midday then cool again depending on how long I’m out. For that reason, winter layers are essential—the versatility of adding and removing items throughout the day is necessary. An added benefit of layering is that it can help create a slimmer silhouette if done properly (see my dressing for your body shape series for tips on this). The beauty of layers is that they keep you warm basically by trapping warm air (your own body heat) closest to your body. My favorite formula goes like this: under layer + insulating layer 1 + insulating layer 2 (if necessary) + the outer layer.
I was so excited to discover Uniqlo when we lived in Brooklyn. They have some of the best layerable (is that a word?) items that I have seen. The trick to not looking bulky when layering is to use very thin, but warm, layers underneath. I have several of these T’s from Uniqlo and use them typically as under layers. Pro tip: make sure that your under layer fits snuggly to your body—it will make the other layers lay well on top.
Next up are the insulating layers. This layer consists of a well fitting top (again, keeping the body heat close), and/or a cozy sweater. It is usually not cold enough here in Georgia to do two thick insulating layers especially with an under layer so I typically do an under layer and a thin insulating layer like this turtle neck that I love from Zara. Another option could be this knit top from H&M. One of my favorite things to do is to layer a blazer or hoodie under my coats when the weather is cool enough.
Now for the fun part—the outer layer. I usually find it necessary to do some sort of hat (like the beret from my Things I’m Loving post). Of course, gloves and a scarf are also necessities when the weather is cold. I wear a knitted scarf and beret that I bought in Paris a lot. And of course, the coat. I love coats and am so disappointed when the winter is mild and I don’t get to wear my entire collection. Some that are on my wishlist are this one from ASOS and this one. My coat closet is literally overflowing and the winters here are painfully mild, so I likely won’t be buying one this year.
In New York, my winter weekend outfit would typically go something like this: Uniqlo undershirt and pants, thick socks, jeans and a silk collared shirt, a sweater, hat, scarf, boots, coat, and gloves. My winter weekend outfits in Atlanta look the same as my fall outfits + a light jacket. Lol
What are your favorite layering pieces? Be sure to tag me on social media (IG, FB, Twitter) with your winter layered looks—can’t wait to see what you guys put together!