Elegant Layering

Layering is the look for right now and its not just for the amazons who wore it down the runways. Anyone can wear this look with flair because haven't we always layered? From throwing a sweater over a blouse on a cold day to the Bohemian look of two summers ago, layering has always been a part of fashion. But how is this look different from what we've done in the past? For starters the current look is a lot less fussy. Its not about wearing six different bracelets or looking like a hobo, gypsy or Mary-Kate Olsen for that matter. Its about playing with volume, proportion and color in a sleek modern way. But how does a girl take this off the runway and into reality?


Layered Looks from Marni's F/W 2006 Runway

Layering Keys
- Chunky wool sweaters, knits will always be in style
- Muted Color Schemes
- Capelets & Capes, in elegant tweeds
- Silk Blouses, for a feminine touch
- Scarves, treat yourself to one from a luxurious house like Hermes or Chanel

Layering Hints

- Keep it simple. The layered look works best when you stick to solid colors and classic textures like silks and tweeds. Mixing patterns and prints can result in an overdone, clashing look. If you absolutely must wear a pattern chose an understated print.

- Embrace neutrals. Layering makes basic colors like black, white, grey and beige interesting again. Use brighter colors as accents to an overall neutral look.

- Say no to monochrome. Often times people think sticking with one color makes them look leaner but monochromatic layering can result in a shapeless look. The best way to emphasize your figure is to use contrasting colors. If you're wearing all dark colors use a light colored belt (as seen on the Marni runway) to draw attention to the waist. If you're wearing light colors mix in a little black underneath via tights or leggings to show off your legs.

- Remember proportion. If you are wearing falls wide leg trousers or bubble skirts wear something a bit form fitting on top. Likewise if you go for a skinnier jean or pencil skirt use volume on the top. Its easy to get lost under yards of fabric with layering so remember to keep things in balance.

- Get creative. Layering is fun because it allows experimentation, try an unexpected combination for a look thats all yours. Long sleeve blouses beneath short sleeved sweaters and knee length dresses over denim are attractive options.

- Accessorize. Its tempting to overdo it with layered accessories going for the more is more look but since this trend is going for a quirkier feel keep the accessories minimal but original. A beautiful scarf or abstract necklace is perfect for the new layering. Don't be afraid to try this seasons dramatic long gloves either as they're quite glamorous.

TFFF Look



Clockwise: Wool Coat - H&M, Cashmere Sweater Dress - Stella McCartney, Wooden Necklace - Marni, Platform Heels - Biba, Distressed Leather Bag - Lanvin

This is a layered look I put together that's simple and practical. First we have the great short sleeved wool coat, a look that we'll be seeing everywhere this fall. Its a fresh take on the everyday black coat we've all got in our closets and works well with layering as it allows us to see the outfit beneath. Next we have a grey sweater dress, an incredibly practical item that can be worn with anything from jeans to tights to leggings or just by itself. Its great to have pieces you can wear in different ways as it creates more options for layering. I've accessorized this outfit with one of Marni's great wooden necklaces, a pair of amazing platforms from Biba and the Lanvin Hero bag. I chose each piece for its uniqueness, its important when doing this look to use pieces that stand out from the crowd. This look is all about individuality and creativity.