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Olivia Palermo wearing a blue co-ord with a slim belt layered over the top © Getty

How to layer clothes: 10 easy ways to maximise your style impact this season

Learn to layer with these need-to-know styling tricks 

Orin Carlin
Content Writer
Updated: September 21, 2023
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Layering is a total style minefield. One ill-advised cable knit can quickly send you over the edge, turning your chic autumnal silhouette into something shapeless and unforgiving. 

Keeping things fresh is key, and for that we recommend you turn your attention to those versatile, virtually seasonless pieces - think lightweight polo necks, boxy sweater vests and easy-breezy trenches - that can be worn all year round. 

The biting weather demands a certain level of warmth, but that doesn't mean that you should let your style game fall by the wayside.

Get more wear out of your existing favourites by considering the classic layering techniques that the street style set rely on time and time again. From outside-facing corsets to cosy sweater vests, these are the need-to-know tips and tricks that will help you master the art of layering.

MORE: The best designer scarves to get all wrapped up in this season

Hello! Fashion shares how to layer your clothes like a pro: 

1. Add a turtleneck

Paola Alberdi wearing a black polo neck under a bouclé jumpsuit © Getty
Paola Alberdi at Paris Fashion Week AW23-24

Style advice

The eternally flattering turtleneck is a wardrobe staple that you mustn't be without this autumn. A tight-fitting black version goes with absolutely everything, but if you're wanting to add a hint of colour, layer a turtleneck under an oversized blazer or a floral midi for a sense of depth.

READ: Oversized jumpers: 8 ultra-flattering ways to style yours this season

RELATED: The best designer scarves to get all wrapped up in this season

2. Try a sweater vest 

Francesca Saffari wearing a grey sweater vest over a blue shirt © Getty
Francesca Saffari at Paris Fashion Week AW23-24

Style advice 

Want to transform a classic shirt from a transitional staple into a cosy winter wonder? Experiment with a knitted sweater vest to switch up the shape and add warmth. Check out those by Acne Studios, Ganni and Cecilie Bahnsen.

READ: How to create a capsule wardrobe that will stand the test of time

3. Make it monochrome

Thassia Naves wearing a yellow co-ord and cardigan © Getty
Thassia Naves at Milan Fashion Week SS23

Style advice 

A one-track-mind colourway allows you to create a sense of depth. Take a traditionally summery hue, for instance lemon yellow, and rock a co-ord with a cardigan layered over the top for the ultimate all-eyes-on-me transitional look. Alternatively, opt for head-to-toe back and take the opportunity to experiment with contrasting textures – think sumptuous wool coats alongside glossy boots.

4. Cinch it up 

Olivia Palermo wearing a blue co-ord with a slim belt layered over the top © Getty
Olivia Palermo at New York Fashion Week AW23

Style advice 

Adding a slim belt over knitted layers is a super easy way to retain your silhouette and provide a focal point. Consider tying it all together with thigh-high boots in the same leather finish as your belt.

5. Pursue a pattern clash

A stylish guest wearing a check coat over a pinstripe suit© Getty
A stylish guest at New York Fashion Week AW23

Style advice 

Consider layering a couple of print classics together via a sharp, straight-cut coat and an oversized blazer. Checks, houndstooth and tartan feel simultaneously cosy and season-appropriate. 

6. Let there be light

A stylish guest wearing a white micro top, a grey oversized jumper and a striped sheer skirt © Getty
A stylish guest at Copenhagen Fashion Week SS24

Style advice 

Lighten up your look with airy chiffons and cool-girl meshes. These sheer, floaty fabrics are perfect for those tricky-to-nail days when the weather is unexpectedly warm. Err on the side of caution with a luxe, relaxed-fit knit in case it takes a turn.

7. Consider the cool-girl cardigan 

Angela Rozas Saiz wearing a vibrant cardigan over a sheer dress © Getty
Angela Rozas Saiz at Milan Fashion Week SS23

Style advice 

Dowdy is simply not an option with this season's best knitted offerings. Cardigans are cool now - you heard it here first. Opt for structured, button-up elegance via Self-Portrait or go slouchy and vibrant with styles by Farm Rio and Alanui.

8. Think outside the box

Julia Haghjoo wearing a green knit around her neck © Getty
Julia Haghjoo at Copenhagen Fashion Week AW23

Style advice 

Break the rules and consider tying a vivid knit around your neck in a scarf-like fashion or embracing your inner Y2K girlie (Trinny and Susannah would be proud) by layering a dress over trousers. 

9. Experiment with texture

A stylish guest wearing a fuzzy jumper, shirred skirt and shearling jacket © Getty
A stylish guest at Copenhagen Fashion Week AW23

Style advice 

Fuse together different finishes for added interest. Style a fuzzy knit with a shirred skirt and top it all off with a cosy shearing jacket.

10. Try an outside-facing corset  

Zita D'Hauteville wearing a corset over a shirt © Getty
Zita D'Hauteville at Paris Fashion Week AW23-24

Style advice 

Corsets and bodices were historically worn beneath the clothes, but don't let that stop you from experimenting. Layer a fitted piece over a voluminous blouse to create an hourglass shape - this season's silhouette du jour.

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