How to layer in the winter: the basics
Taking the layered approach is an art and a science. An art when it comes to styling and a science when it comes to insulation. Over the holidays and into the coldest depths of February and March, you’ll usually want three to four layers on top: a base layer, one or two middle layers, and an outer layer. Here’s a brief breakdown:
- Base layer: A t-shirt, tank top, cami, or long sleeve blouse that you wear against your skin to keep you comfortable.
- Sweater layer: This will usually be some sort of long sleeve sweater or cardigan, but it can also be something lighter like a poplin shirt.
- Jacket layer: Depending on the outfit, this could also be a sweater, but for those truly bone chilling days, it's nice to have something a little longer on top of your sweater layer like a coatigan, flannel, shacket, or blazer.
- Outer layer: This is your topmost outerwear layer. In the dead of winter, it’ll usually be something with heavy insulation like a parka but when you need a little more elegance you might opt for a wool or felt coat of some kind.
Regarding the mid layers, sometimes you’ll only need the sweater, sometimes you’ll only need the jacket, and sometimes you’ll need both. It all depends on the forecast and the outfit.
Base layer: Shirts
The next-to-skin layer. You want something light and comfy.
You probably have lots of options in your closet already. A t-shirt, tank top, blouse, or a sleeveless blouse are great choices. They all act as a comfortable next-to-skin foundation for the rest of your layered outfit.
Base layers can also be more sophisticated. Luxurious tops like satin camis, poplin shirts, or blouses with sequins (especially for the holidays) can ensure you look good if you need to take off the rest of your layers.
Other ideas include any blouses with drape, lace, or sheer elements. You can also try out pieces with ruching, collars, or balloon sleeves.
The base layer can be as simple or as sophisticated as you want it to be. If the forecast is looking dire, it’s unlikely you’ll be going all the way down to this layer. In this case, a simple t-shirt or, tank between you and your sweater will suffice. But if it looks like the temperatures might fluctuate you can step up your base layer to something a little more sophisticated.
Middle Layer: Sweater
Now, on to the middle layers. When layering for cold temperatures, like the ones we experience over the holidays, you’ll want at least one cozy layer between your base layer and your winter coat.
The easy go-to is a cardigan or sweater. For those especially nippy days, a pull over sweater with a higher neckline will seal in warmth more effectively. Turtlenecks, crewnecks, Fair Ilse sweaters, and cable knits are all good choices.
But if your outfit or the weather calls for it, you can opt for something a little more versatile and not quite as warm. V-necks, Henleys, or polos all work. Tunic length options can offer extra warmth since they cover your behind as well.
Pointelle sweaters and others with texture or sparkle details also work, especially for holiday and Christmas get-togethers. It’s nice to have these outfit options at your fingertips.
All these styles are versatile too. Whether you’re in the middle of winter or any other season, they can go with skirts, pants, or jeans and keep cold weather and wind away.
Middle Layer: Jackets
Now’s time for the second middle layer. If you’re wearing a lighter sweater you can go with something heavier like a coatigan, flannel, or shacket. If you already have a pretty warm sweater on, you might want to opt for something a little lighter. Options can include an oversized poplin shirt, a vest, a blazer, or even a shawl or oversized scarf.
As mentioned earlier, you might not always need this secondary middle layer. It will depend on the weather, the outfit, and your mood. Having two middle layers is specifically for those cold days that call for expert layering -- days when you don’t want to have to sacrifice warmth for style.
Coats
The final layer is a quality winter coat. This is for your outdoor needs.
The right one should last you 10 years or more, so don’t be afraid to spend a little extra money. As the saying goes, it’s more expensive to be cheap twice. In other words, you’ll spend less money in the long run by getting a quality jacket that lasts you years instead of one you might have to replace after a season or two.
Parkas with real or artificial down, hoods with fur trim details (also real or artificial), and a little bit of length--at least past the hip--are ideal. It’s usually best to get them in neutral colours so they have more versatility when it comes to outfit combinations.
It’s also a good idea to invest in a quality overcoat. These are for nights out, times when you might only be going from the car to the office, or even as an elegant fall or spring jacket. Felty jackets with some wool content can last you a while and be both warm and sophisticated.
Layer like an expert
Simple right? Okay maybe not, but like we said, layering is an art! It might be a bit of a challenge at first, especially if you’re new to Canada or colder climates, but it can be fun. Try to enjoy experimenting and expressing your personal style with layers. If you’re looking to add some pieces to your wardrobe, explore our collection of tops, sweaters, jackets, and coats. We have plenty of options for you to add pieces to your layering palette!
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