There’s a reason fashion people love winter! You get to wear multiple favourite pieces at the same time. But let’s get one thing straight, layering is not restricted to the chilly months. Layering adds depth to an outfit and also allows you to get the most use of your separates without looking like you are repeating (although there is absolutely no harm in repeating). The easiest ways to layer are by throwing on a kimono or duster jacket, or slipping a white tee under your dress. But why stop there? Take your look from basic to bomb with these layering tricks, here’s how you can do it with pieces you probably own.
Sheer & Opaque
Whether you want to wear sheer over opaque or opaque over sheer; both are essential layering basics. Sheer chiffon, mesh or lace in the form of jackets or tops work brilliantly over sports bras, crop tops or bralettes for an instant sports-luxe look. Switch it up by wearing a semi-sheer bodysuit under a jacket for a more formal look. Get experimental by teaming long shirts or tunics with sheer pants, or throwing a sheer skirt over your jeans. Pro-tip: Sheer tops under overalls or pinafores work like magic if you ever have to attend a farmer-chic themed party.
Designer Shyma Shetty agrees that when it comes to layering, it doesn’t get easier than playing around with sheer and opaque layers. “Add dimensions with lace under layers and oversized shirts thrown over. Or sheer outer layers over solid tank tops. Play with lengths. Long, oversized outer layers with a pair of denim cut-offs is always a great look. I like to keep my silhouettes oversized with long jackets, wide legged long trousers with a fitted tank top inside. I like to construct my look around one star piece so pick that and then work around it."
The White Shirt
You are forgiven for thinking that layering is restricted to adding only outer layers, like a jacket, vest, kimono, etc. You can add one under your outfit too. Enough has been written about the prowess of the sacred white shirt and it holds good here too. Rejig your old LBDs by wearing a white shirt underneath or reinvent your white shirt by wearing a crop top over it. The possibilities are infinite! Pro-tip: Use cold-shouldered, neck-line exposing white shirts, to look less formal but still enjoy some sleeve action.
Sleeveless Jackets
The sleeveless jacket is a must-have in every serious layering fashionista’s wardrobe. There are so many ways one can wear this piece. It’s easy to find it in black, white or tan versions. The longer the jacket, the better! The midi-size is my favourite, which can be thrown over shorts or a mini-dress. Shorter jackets go well with silky camisoles and denim. While it pairs well with just about anything, leather in some form makes a great companion to the sleeveless jacket. Pro-tip: Wear the sleeveless jacket or blazer with an all-white or all-black look to look instantly expensive.
According to designer Shweta Kapur, “One of the easiest ways to layer in between seasons is to throw on an oversized shirt with sleeves scrunched up over a fitted ganji. I love cinching an open shirt with a high waist belt as it gives the body a really interesting silhouette and gives a completely new look to your basic shirt.”
