Layering 101: A Guide to the Essential and Timelessly Stylish Dressing Method

Here’s your yearly, cold weather reminder that you can never have too many pairs of tights. After all, they always seem to get lost, shredded, or otherwise compromised over time. That being said, reviewers say that this HUE pick is pretty durable, not to mention soft. 

One buyer calls this cami a “closet workhorse,” and they’re not wrong. Perfect under a cardigan, sweater, blazer, or blouse, this camisole is a chic base for a day-to-night outfit. It has a v-neck, but reviewers say it isn’t too low cut.

If you plan on wearing multiple layers, it’s smart to start out with a form-fitting base. This midweight tee layers smoothly under a sweater and jacket, but reviewers say that it’s thick enough to be worn on its own, too: “This shirt is constructed from a substantial material that hugs your body while allowing you to breathe.”

If you love the look of a turtleneck but hate feeling constricted around your throat, the funnel neck might be for you. The high neck is much looser, but the rest of the top remains fitted and sleek. The material is lightweight with a satin smooth finish. 

One-piece aficionados already know this, but here’s a PSA: Adding a bodysuit to your wardrobe can easily nix unwanted wrinkles. This is especially useful when layering under a fitted skirt or pants, since a cinched waist often creates annoying fabric bunches. The ribbed knit on this Lulus find is thick enough to warm you up without being sweater quality.

Layering skirts is a fun opportunity to play with length. We love this Quince option for a few reasons. It’s silk, which is lightweight and hypoallergenic. It’s (miraculously) machine-washable, so you don’t have to schlep to the dry cleaners. Plus, it will look movie star glam yet understated under a long coat. 

Speaking of skirts, we couldn’t write this list without including this elegant J. Crew piece. It’s a simple maxi with subtly gorgeous details — namely, the gentle draping adds a touch of texture. Buyers can’t get enough of the piece’s versatility: “The feel of the skirt is light, flowing, and comfortable. A great wardrobe staple.”

Cardigans are an essential layering piece. They are easy  to slip off or unbutton for ventilation, plus the knit is notoriously versatile and can be worn with skirts, pants, or dresses. We like this particular cardi because it’s a fitted piece that you can easily slide on over a cami or tee and under a jacket. Made of wool and yak hair, it will also be fairly warm all on its own.

Here’s a cardigan that swings in the other direction. This oversized piece is snuggly, but it also has room for multiple lightweight pieces underneath. One buyer says that this is an ideal choice for a minimalist wardrobe: “I have been looking for a cozy oversized cardigan for my capsule wardrobe and this one is perfect. It is oversized and cozy but still has nice details and fit to be polished.”

If you’re a layering commitment-phobe who hates the feel of wearing a full on sweater under  a coat, a wrap is a low stakes solution. Sure, you can toss it on under outerwear, but it’s far less constricting and way more blanket-like. And if you’re going to spring for a wrap, why not go for super soft cashmere?

If you’re afraid of looking like the Michelin Man, here’s proof that layering won’t leave you shapeless. This suede moto jacket is fitted but leaves a little room for a light cardigan and tee underneath. Plus, the draping at the collar is fluttery without being fussy or frilly. 

This J. Crew coat is a bonafide winter classic with gold and faux fur details that are unique without being overwhelming. Katie Couric Media’s Diana is in love with her’s: It’s gotten her through heavy Vermont snows, but it’s also perfect for chilly San Francisco fog. Plus, just look at those pockets. 

This Everlane liner jacket is multipurpose: It can act as a coat by itself, or — if you live in a cold climate — you can layer it underneath another coat. Either way, it’s a soft quilted piece made of recycled material. 

Leggings are a layering staple for a reason: They’re warm yet comfy, and they go with everything. For a classic black look, we love this breathable pair. It’s sort of a Goldilocks pick — not too thick, and not too thin (or God forbid, see-through). 

You can’t go wrong with a basic, mid length, long-sleeved tee. Advertised as extra warm, this ribbed crew neck is basic enough to go with anything but still cute enough that you’ll be proud to show it off. It will work wonderfully under a cardigan, a pullover, or as a boost of warmth under a short-sleeved top.