One issue with layering is it can bulk you up which is less than flattering. The easiest way to overcome this is to accentuate your waist by simply adding a belt.
A while ago someone left a comment on a past post calling me the “Queen of Layering” and it absolutely made my day. I’ve always loved to layer clothes and combine different textures within my outfits. After several years of blogging, I think it’s fair to say layering has definitely become associated with my style.
I thought it was about time I shared all my tips and tricks on how to layer. Given that we’re now in May, I’ve put all my coats and winter jackets away. However, the British weather seems to have other ideas and it feels like we’re in Autumn rather than Spring. Despite this, on principle, I refuse to wear a coat! This means I’ve resorted to ample layering to keep me warm one these very grey and wet days we’ve recently been experiencing.
1) Polo necks/ turtle necks should be your best friend
Invest in a good quality polo neck. I’ve got a couple that I’m always reaching for. Look for something that is made out of a light and thin weight fabric with a good fit. If you go for a heavy cotton or wool one it will make you bulky, which no one wants!
A good quality one doesn’t mean expensive. My favourites are from H&M and one I purchased in LA ages ago from Calypso which was majorly on sale. Check out some of these great options from H&M HERE, HERE and HERE starting from £3.99.
Once you’ve found yourself the perfect polo neck, layering couldn’t be easier. Layer them under shirts, dresses, rompers or cami tops to not only keep you warm but add that extra detail and polish to your look.
My only advice is, make sure you apply your makeup AFTER you’ve got dressed, as it’s almost impossible to not get makeup around the neckline with these.
2) If in doubt belt it
One issue with layering is it can bulk you up which is less than flattering. The easiest way to overcome this is to accentuate your waist by simply adding a belt.
3) Try layering with jewellery
If you’re not up for wearing layers and layers of clothes or it’s simply too warm for layering but you still want to create that look than layering necklaces, bracelets and rings is a good way to go. I will often layer 3 or 4 necklaces together or I’ll wear a handful of rings, just to give my outfit that finishing touch.
Personally, I don’t think you need to invest in hugely expensive fine jewellery. In fact, in many cases the lower end of the high street have some of the best on trend pieces which are perfect for layering. Try Primark, H&M and ZARA for perfect pieces which won’t break the bank.
4) Shirts are key
I know, I know I am a shirt fanatic and cannot get enough of them but trust me, it’s amazing what you can do with a simple button down shirt. I’m constantly layering them underneath cami tops or sleeveless dresses.
I’ve never been one for baring too much flesh, partly because I’m ghostly pale a lot of the time, plus I’ve never been particularly confident about showing off my arms or chest. Therefore, I’m always looking for different ways to wear pretty dresses and pairing them with a shirt is definitely my favourite look. I think it adds a touch of sophistication without trying too hard. Plus, it can give a dress a whole new lease of life and means it can be worn across seasons, not just in the summer.
5) There are no hard and fast rules
Despite giving you 4 solid “rules”, there is actually no hard and fast way to embrace layering. In fact, I would go as far as to say anything goes! Who says you can’t wear jeans underneath a jumpsuit or a sun dress over a chunky knit. First and foremost, have fun with layering and experiment with textures and styles until you find a perfect match. Once you start you won’t be able to stop. It’s amazing how you can reimagine so many pieces of clothing in your wardrobe simply by pairing them and layering them with the unexpected!
Don’t forget you can also keep up with me on Instagram @thatnewdress, Twitter @thatnewdress, Bloglovin That New Dress, Snapchat thatnewdress and Depop @dominiquew.
You look really gorgeous with this outfit!! Great post!
xx
Mónica Sors
MES VOYAGES À PARIS
NEW POST: GINGHAM TOP + SNEAKERS | RODEO DRIVE
This outfit is so pretty, you’ve got a real talent I think.
Amy;
Little Moon Elephant
Great post, I like it 🙂 fantastic outfit 🙂
new post
https://www.instagram.com/ilijac/
http://mensfashionobsession.blogspot.rs/
This is artful layering, lady! Love it!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
So cute! Love the photos
Alya / moorizzla xx
The dress on pants trend is something I’ve been wanting to try for the longest time! Maybe I’ll give it a go when I go to Europe =). Love how you layered this whole outfit!
xoxo
Rina Samantha
http://www.andshedressed.com
Thank you for sharing your guide to layering. I love this look.And you are right- the right piece of jewelry can do wonders and it does not have to be expensive.
X
Miri
http://currentlywearing.com
You are indeed the queen of layering. You styled this look perfectly. Even in the US we definitely need layers to transition into Spring weather because the temps are on the cooler side. Thank you for sharing these great tips. Yes, absolutely apply your makeup AFTER you get into your polo shirt 🙂 I’ve made that mistake before!!!
Love your edgy military boots, they complete your look beautifully.
Xx
Nikki
http://www.nikkilivinglife.com
Layering is so hard to master. Thank you for all of your tips, I really need them 🙂 and of course you look adorable.
Layering is key! Sometimes for fashion and other times for weather/functionality. You’ve certainly got it down!
Tasha Juli
stylesplendorbliss.com
instagram.com/stylesplendorbliss/
I totally agree with you on this guide and you absolutely rocked this look! I like to make my outfit look a little bit unexpected so I love the “last rule” 🙂
Have a great day <3
xx, Carmen – http://www.carmitive.com
Rule five would have to be the most important and relevant! But thank you for sharing these tips. I need to start trying to layer with jewellery, I always forget to wear mine 🙁
http://www.thelushstyles.com
Beautiful look, great tips!
Funmi xx
http://www.funmialabi.co.uk
Queen of Layering haha! So fun! I vote for that! I love today’s layers!
Nice tips and I really love how your whole outfit came together.
http://sophieatieno.com
I always love your layering techniques dear, you make it look effortless, warm and chic without looking bulky. Love the necklaces that you curated here, I was looking for something like these.
http://www.busyandfab.com
awesome look!
xoxo
Patinka
http://www.patinkasworld.com
You really do rock the layered look! Love the jewelry, too!
That outfit is so chic and cool and I love just how much you layer it. These are great tips! xx
Ann-Marie | http://facetocurls.com
In love with your outfit and this post!
http://nouw.com/bellss
Totally agree on all those tips! Loving the pictures…the last one is so vibrant.
Christina ♥ https://caliope-couture.com
Agree, the weather here has be up and down, so i am all for layering to avoid wearing a heavy coat. Cute outfit!
http://www.comfycozyup.com
very nice blouse and fab shoes
new look on my blog —> Pink Yarrow Pantone color 2017 <—
have an happy day, kisses
I like how you have layered everything!! You surely are a queen of layering! <3 I am absolutely in love with your top and your boots!! You look lovely! Have a great day!! <3
Lots of Love,
Shivangi
http://www.outoncatwalk.com
Awesome job creating this look. The guide that you shared is super helpful. 🙂
http://www.lifeofardor.com
Love your outfit doll!!
xo-Nina
http://www.ninalnguyen.com/2017/05/killer-black-heels.html
Awww thank you doll xx
That’s so lovely, thank you! xx
Thank you xx
Aww thanks doll! xx
Thank you Alya xx
Do it, especially if you’re coming to Europe soon. It’s still quite chilly in parts xx
It’s all about layering statement necklaces! xx
Aww I’m so happy to hear the tips were helpful! xx
You’re such a sweetie, thank you xx
Thank you so much Carmen, you’re so lovely xx
Thank you xx
Thanks doll xx
Haha thanks hun xx
Thank you so much lovely xx
I think that necklace came from Primark of all prices! You can’t beat cheap and cheerful! xx
Awww thank you sweetie! xx
So glad you like the post doll xx
Thank you Bella xx
Thank you sweetie! xx
Those boots were such a good buy, I’ve worn them SO much! xx
I’m so happy it hear it was helpful! Thank you for the lovely comment doll xx
Thank you sweetie! xx
You definitely know how to layer. This is such a fun look and a new way to wear tie dye too!
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
Such a great post and look. I love that dress you are wearing. Have a great start to your week.
Gemma x
http://www.jacquardflower.uk
Love your layering and tips! I had to look closely to realize that you are actually wearing three layers on top – well done! I also refuse to wear a coat right now – unless it’s raining. Have a great week!
xo, janea
http://www.theSTYLEtti.com
I’ve made that mistake many times too! It took several makeup diasters before I learned my lesson, haha xx
Thank you so much lovely xx
Thank you darling! xx
Thank yo Gemma xx
Thank you so much hunny xx
Thank you doll xx
Aww thanks hunny xx
Quite good looking.
http://www.angtiyang.com
Thank you xx