Style inspiration

The essential art of layering

The art of layering is one of the most important skills you can learn. It offers so many benefits. When you layer your clothes successfully and creatively it will help you to ‘shop your closet” and get the most out of your existing wardrobe. Layering is particularly essential if you live in a mercurial and changeable climate, as I do.

Layering can look amazing, especially if you choose your colours carefully. You can mix and match textures, shapes and patterns to find your own original style. Layering is also practical – being able to take off an item or add another layer, means you’ll always feel comfortable temperature-wise. Which, let’s face it, is pretty essential with the erratic weather we’re encountering lately.

You will get so much more out of the clothes you already own if you mix up your pieces. You will look more individual. Another trick is to layer up your accessories. The addition of a flattering coloured scarf will not only draw attention to your face but will also ensure that you look chic and well presented even when wearing a pair of jeans.

 

My blue raincoat is by Lands’s End. You have seen it before here. My bright pink jacket (peeking out from under my raincoat) is from Joseph. My navy sleeveless boiled wool vest is from Hopefashionuk. It is now in their mid-season sale reduced from £85 to £51 (also available in black). You might also like to have a look at the HopefashionuknewSpringcollection. They are experts in layering pieces. Navy trousers by MarksandSpencer(US link) Pale pink swing sweater WooOvers.

Layer ideas:

Chicatanyage

I write a fashion and beauty blog for women over 50 with the aim of inspiring mature women to continue to enjoy and have fun with their fashion choices. I have spent most of my working life in some way connected to fashion. I started my career in Fashion PR and then trained as an Image Consultant when my children were young. I subsequently worked in the corporate world running seminars, doing private coaching and speaking at conferences. I started my blog in 2009 as I wanted to share my years of experience working in the world of fashion. I truly believe we can continue to have confidence in the way we present ourselves. Our style may evolve with time and changing lifestyles, yet with a little knowledge and inspiration, we can all continue to have fun with fashion. As women of a certain age we are a growing demographic let us prove that we can also be a chic one.

View Comments

  • Josephine. This is a great post. I am working on it with my colours Definitely food for thought
    Thanks yet again and keep up the good work
    Margo

  • Josephine, This is a true transition to spring. Still chilly, but you've layered two colors and tied it all together with a scarf. I could see you taking off your raincoat and looking absolutely stunning for an evening dinner out.

  • Love that look! Great ideas for traveling to two different climates too. We had snow today and temps in the 20's. Then in the afternoon temps "soared" to the 40's. It was a bit warm with cashmere and down. Layering would help solve this problem. Love the colors too. I own way to many pieces in black.

  • THERE IS THAT PINK AGAIN!!!!!!!!!
    LAYERS UPON LAYERS is KEY to staying warm and FASHIONABLE!
    XX

  • You look so great in pastels! Layering is very important for me being in a warmer weather climate where the morning may be 50 and the afternoon 90. Thanks Josephine!

  • I have recently joined your mailing list and just love your posts. I too have been in France where it rained most of the time. I like your layering ideas and should be grateful if you could tell me the make of your navy trainers. Many thanks, Maggie

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