The Layering Tricks That Will Help You Outsmart the Weather This Winter
Scroll below for outfit formulas to make you excited about adding those extra layers.
1. T-Shirt + Jumper
Style Notes: If there's one foolproof layering pair that'll always look effortlessly cool, it's the white t-shirt peeking out from a jumper. Somehow, it just makes the whole outfit appear that bit more considered. Find the perfect white t-shirt, play with different jumpers, and style with slouchy tailored trousers for a pitch perfect look.
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2. Fitted Top + Shirt + Waxed Coat
Style Notes: There's something so timeless about this layered look—and I love that it's entirely made up of versatile wardrobe staples. My advice would be to opt for a bodysuit, which is guaranteed to give you a close fit under the shirt and avoid any bunching up. For really crisp days, you could even swap the round-neck style for a turtleneck.
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Waxed country jackets really regained popularity at the end of last year, and I don't think it's popularity will be diminishing as we tackle the rest of the winter months.
3. Leather + Knitwear
Style Notes: Danielle's outfit is all the proof I need that leather and knitwear are an exceptionally gorgeous pairing. This look is so luxe, especially due to the textured leather of the pencil skirt. And the finishing touch of the knee-high socks with the patent heels is just delicious.
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Yes, it's an investment, but a croc-leather pencil skirt is a piece you'll wear now and love forever.
Lean into the luxe look of the materials by opting for a cashmere cropped cardigan.
This close-fitting t-shirt is a great option for layering underneath the cardigan.
Double up on the croc-leather with this (on sale!) coat.
4. Matching Skirt + Jumper + White T-Shirt
Style Notes: As you might be picking up, one of the best ways to keep layering simple is to stick to a simple colour palette. Minimalists will appreciate the understated nature of Brittany's outfit— again, the effortlessly elegant match of a white t-shirt and jumper, with a wool skirt that matches the knitwear.
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This is the kind of skirt you could style so many ways, whether for the office or an evening out.
A black leather riding boot will serve you well for years to come.
5. Shirt + Jumper Tied Over Shoulders
Style Notes: Julie's outfit is a great example of how to make the preppy look of a jumper tied over a button-down shirt look fresh, French and oh-so chic. The striped shirt and wide-leg jeans give the outfit a cool, Seventies-inspired vibe, and the heeled Mary Janes keep it playful and contemporary.
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I'm obsessed with this slightly oversized cashmere jumper—it's ideal for layering over pretty much everything.
These Mary Janes are available in plenty of other colours, too.
The kind of bag that will instantly make your outfit look that much more sophisticated.
6. Matching Top + Cardigan
Style Notes: Layering isn't only for the cold months—when we start to approach the transitional season, I'll be turning to this look for inspiration. A matching cardigan and top set is ideal for those in-between weather days, especially when paired with a white skirt. And I love how Abi is embracing the pop of colour by opting for green shoes, too.
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A much-appreciated jolt of colour for the grey January days.
My dream summer skirt. Swap for white jeans if you want to recreate this look during colder weather.
7. Matching Cardigan + Slip Dress
Style Notes: Save this look for when you're next looking for a sleek evening outfit. A slip dress is a tried-and-true evening piece (that can also be styled for daytime by pairing a jumper and boots), but Chrissy's styling choice of the matching colour cardigan tied over the shoulders and the delicate drop earrings manages to make it look simultaneously fresh and classic.
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The kind of earrings that will transform even the simplest outfit into a stunning evening ensemble.
Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.
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