When the temperature drops, it's tempting to swap your shirts, dresses, and skirts for massive jumpers, padded coats, and woolly hats. Cosy, yes… but stylish? Not always.
Sticking to your style during the winter months can be tricky, but there is a way to keep your wardrobe working when the weather's chilly – layering.
A few well-placed layers will extend the life of your chiffon blouses and floaty skirts way past those warmer days. And we don't mean just throw a coat over your outfit and hope for the best. Layering is an art, and doing it right will make your outfit shine rather than cover it up.
This step-by-step layering guide will give you practical tips and aspirational outfit ideas to make you look hot, no matter how cold it gets outside.
Why layering is the ultimate winter style hack
Layering is the ultimate winter weather hack because it allows you to stay warm in the colder months without sacrificing your style in the process. While it is an art, there's also a science to doing it well.
Layering is the most recommended style technique for Autumn/Winter to achieve both cosiness and adaptability. We've all been there, enduring an icy cold walk to work, only to be blasted by the heater and suddenly feeling roasted.
The process of layering allows you to construct a bespoke outfit using multiple pieces of clothing that you can take off and add on as you meander through your day.
What is layering?
Proper layering is the fashionista's art of wearing multiple clothing pieces to stay warm and stylish while adapting to changing temperatures.
You need to start with the right base layer for the outfit, like a thermal top, leggings, and lightweight fabrics that add extra protection from the cold without adding unnecessary bulk that will change the shape of the outer layer or impact how well it fits or looks on you.
The middle layer will be the clothes people see when you're inside, making it the most important layer for style and vital for warmth. This can include knitwear, jumpers, and waistcoats.
Then you have the outer layer. This is your quintessential outerwear, like coats, jackets, and waterproof fabrics. This is what we typically think of as winter clothing. However, if you don't set yourself up for success with the lower layers, there's only so much your coat can do to keep you warm.
Benefits of layering
Layering has a lot of benefits and advantages for winter in the UK. It allows you to add warmth to your outfit and be comfortable throughout the day as you're exposed to multiple temperatures.
When you leave the house, you'll be protected from the cold and wind. When you go inside, you can take off your coat and even your middle layers, to match the temperature in the room you're in.
It also makes your wardrobe more versatile. You can mix and match different pieces in ways you never have before, experiment with different textures, colour, and pattern combinations, and have some fun with it.
How to layer your clothes the right way
How do you layer clothes for cold weather? When it comes to the "how", there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The last thing you want to do is layer up for a day date and then feel uncomfortable, restricted, or "bulky".
The premise of layering consists of a base layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer. A beautifully layered outfit is balanced with different material weights, colours, and patterns.
The key is to maximise comfort and style by dressing to cover many eventualities. Combine multiple classic lightweight layers and choose a couple of standout pieces to set the tone.
Let's go over our essential layering steps and discuss how to layer clothes to keep warm without compromising on your style.
1. Start with the right base layer
Base layers are the foundation of any winter outfit worth its salt. Get this bit right, and you'll be toasty all day long. On milder days, popping a vest on under your top or jumper will probably be enough, but when the wind is really biting, it's time to get serious.
Look for long-sleeve thermal tops in very fine fabrics — they're invisible under clothing but hold in the heat to keep you warm. If you're wearing trousers, thermal or temperature control leggings are another good option to keep in the warmth.
Whilst we want the base layer to be warm, the last thing we want is to feel clammy. So, what's the best material to look for? Choose a base layer made from Merino wool.
This is a totally natural material, which provides breathability and temperature control. Merino wool is also odour-resistant, making it a great choice for a base layer close to the skin.
Cotton blends are also a great choice for breathability. They come thin and thick, in various blends and textures, and they look and feel good. Looking for something a little more high fashion? A silk-blend thermal under a chiffon blouse keeps it luxe but toasty.
2. Middle layers: knitwear and statement pieces
We often think of knitwear as the finishing touch to an outfit, but it works just as well as a layering piece. If you're wondering how to layer winter clothing, and not just thin layers, you're in the right place.
Knitwear is so versatile, coming in many shapes and styles. From chunky waistcoats and long dresses to cardis and jumpers — the list is endless. The beauty of knitted clothing is that it looks great oversized, which is both pretty and practical after an evening of autumnal feasting.
You can include knitwear over or under various other pieces, but keep the thickness in mind. A fine knit polo neck can transform a low-cut blouse into a cosy winter outfit. A cropped jumper can be layered over a short-sleeved dress to keep out the chill.
Make sure the end result looks good and feels comfortable. It's better to wear multiple thin layers than a couple of thicker ones that may look bulky or bunch up.
We're calling it — bare legs are over for the next six months. Yes, even at the office Christmas party. It's cold out there! Pair your favourite skirts with cosy thermal tights instead.
Get creative to match your personality and personal style. You could tie a cashmere jumper around your waist for that effortlessly cool, street-style appeal. Try layering your favourite dresses over skinny jeans for a boho look. Silk slips or dresses over trousers can make a stylish combination, too.
Classic, pleated skirts are an autumnal staple, but unless the length works, they can often be cast aside in the height of winter. We love combining thermal leggings with a mid or knee-high boot and a longer pleated skirt. The movement offers breathability if needed and means you don't have to compromise your feminine style.
3. Outer layers: coats and jackets that protect and impress
Finding the ideal coat to crown your luxe layered look is essential. Your coat is the final outer layer, and as such, needs to protect you from the elements. Select a coat that is windproof and waterproof to make sure the other layers can do the job of temperature control.
Another thing to consider is the length. Mid-length coats are on trend, and when it comes to warmth, the longer, the better. By opting for a longer coat that covers all the way down to the crook of your knees, you'll trap more heat and enjoy that welcome sense of comfort when you put it on.
Padded coats and jackets are super popular this season, due to the cocoon effect you experience by benefitting from the layers of warm insulation.
If you want to invest in a padded coat, make sure you check out the filling. Down insulation has excellent heat retention and makes your coat easier to compress and pack small. This natural filling does make it quite tricky to clean, as they don't tend to be machine washable.
A synthetic insulation option is often a lot cheaper than down and easier to clean, but it can make your item a lot heavier. For layering purposes, don't forget to aim for a lightweight coat, as this will make it a lot easier when taking it on and off.
You also have to consider whether your coat is oversized or tailored. Tailored coats can look stunning, show off your figure, and make your look more sophisticated. However, you have to wear fewer thin layers in warmer fabrics. A roomy wool coat accommodates chunky knits and blazers.
Shop La Redoute Winter Coats to find your perfect style match and find options for every scenario.
4. Accessorise to complete the look
The accessories are the finishing touch to any outfit. Sometimes they're practical, like socks. Other times, they're decorative, like barrettes. Oftentimes, they're both like scarves. Here are our top tips for the best accessories and how to fit them into your layering game.
Socks
Whether it's under your tights, over your first pair, or ones that come up to your knees — never underestimate the warming power of extra socks. If, admittedly, you aren't the most adventurous when it comes to your clothing colours, then a funky pair of socks might be more your bag.
Keeping your feet warm is more beneficial than you might realise. It improves your circulation to keep the rest of the body warm. Cotton socks are the most breathable, so they would be great as a base layer if you plan to wear a couple of pairs.
Chunky wool socks are perfect to add another layer of warmth, too. If your feet always feel cold, consider sizing up your winter boots so that you can pair them with your favourite cosy socks. Pair knee-high wool socks with heeled boots for warmth and style.
Hats, scarves, and gloves
Autumn is all about accessorising with the classics — hats, scarves, and gloves. Those not abreast with a hat and scarf combo may be put off by the idea of a thick woolly hat squishing down your hair and cheeks. But if you find the right one, a hat can complement your overall look.
When pairing your hat with scarves and gloves, we love to mix it up. Consider the size and scale of each item. If you're wearing a statement wide-brimmed hat, you may wish to counter with a chic silk scarf. Or if you've opted for an oversized scarf, a sleek beret would complement this well.
Do the same with pattern and block colour — it's all relative to what you're wearing underneath these outer accessories. If your principal outfit is plain, jazz it up with a checked scarf and some cute mittens. If you've chosen to wear a lot of colours, a classic pair of leather gloves is a great muted extra.
Choosing a larger scarf means this can double as a shawl or blanket for your lap — your accessories can add both drama and versatility to your look!
The right hat for your face shape
We recommend choosing a hat that suits your face shape. If you have an oval-shaped face, you can get away with pretty much any style of hat! Fedoras, beanies or berets — it's your choice. If you have a smaller, heart-shaped face, then a medium-sized hat is a great choice. Think of anything without a large brim.
For a rounder face shape, asymmetry is your friend. Baker boy hats, baseball caps, and snapbacks are a great shout here! If your aim is simply to keep cosy, wool beanies and berets are a perfect option.
Layering outfit inspiration: mix & match
Let's recap. There are three parts to layering in the winter to keep weather-resistant. Begin with a base layer that will keep you dry, a middle layer to keep you warm, and an outer layer to protect you.
One example of this is stacking a knitted jumper onto a thermal t-shirt, as these two materials will lock in the heat whilst maintaining a healthy body temperature in cold weather. Top the outfit off with a water-resistant wax jacket or raincoat.
Consider the weight (and material) of each layer, and whether you'll be walking around a lot so that you don't end up stripping off and carrying your outerwear more than you actually wear it!
Here are some layering combination examples to help you visualise the right groupings.
Sophisticated work attire:
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Fleece-lined or temp control leggings
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Tailored, long wool coat
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Matching neutral gloves, scarf, and hat
Cute and cosy look:
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Thermal long-sleeve shirt or thin knit cardigan
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Fleece-lined leggings
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Wool socks
The first look is tailored and polished, with sleek layers that keep you warm. The second is cosy and relaxed, mixing fitted and oversized pieces for a stylish, comfortable vibe.
With these layering tips, you’ll never over- or underdress for winter again. Start with classic pieces, explore our knitwear essentials, and check out our men’s guide to layering clothes if needed.
