How to triple the looks in your wardrobe with these clever layering tricks

It's October and it's cold... today... lovely tomorrow afternoon... then rainy and cold in the evening.  October is predictably unpredictable when it comes to the weather.  The key to being comfortably warm is to layer, take off a layer and you're comfortably cool. Aside from being comfortable in any type of weather, layering is a great way to create more looks from fewer clothes.  If you know what you're doing, it doesn't take much to triple the looks in your wardrobe. There are two main guidelines for layering well.  First, the outer layer needs to be cut slightly bigger than the one underneath.  Second, the outer layer should be a heavier weight (or at least appear to be a heavier weight) than the layer underneath.  Here are 3 ways to take basic pieces and create multiple looks with them.  Be sure to watch the video at the end, where Budah and I show the do's and don'ts of layering.  

Start With...

A button up collared shirt - blue chambray is my shirt of choice

1.   Wear with a tank under and roll up the sleeves. 

​2.   Layer under a buttoned up cardigan, or a cowl neck or turtleneck sweater and pop the collar to frame the face.

3.   Add a blazer for even more polish. (Hint:  every time you add a layer it’s instant street cred.) ​

---

A straight, button up shirt dress

1.   Wear as a dress with the fabric belt (as show above)or tie a bow in front of the buttons.  

2. Change the belt.  The dress often comes with a belt, lately we are seeing them in fabric.  Swap this out for a nice leather belt and the effect is oh so rich.

3.   Wear as a duster vest or jacket.  When the dress is left open, the narrow column of color that's left in between creates a slimming effect.  Who doesn't want that?

---

Blanket scarf 

1.   Some dresses are difficult to layer, a swing dress was made for a large scarf. Drape the scarf like a ruana, over the shoulders and draping in the front.  Add a pin to hold it in place on the shoulder and/or belt to keep it close to the body. Be careful with the belt as this can add visual weight to the tummy if the scarf is bulky.  

2.   Bunch the scarf together so that it is narrow and long.  Layer it under the lapels of your blazer or trench coat. 

3.   Wear it like a shawl with matching boots.

---

See how it's done in real time when Dani and Big Budah discuss the do's and don'ts of layering with sweaters, shirt dresses and collars poppin' like a preppy.  

Layering is a great way to discover your own personal style and develop a look that is uniquely you. ​​ Searching for more ways to layer the basic pieces in your closet?  Then you'll love a wardrobe evaluation.  Get the details HERE.  
​

BOOK YOUR STYLING SESSION