12 Best Layering Pieces

As of a few weeks ago, Winter is officially here. It is time to bring out the extra layers. Layers are the best way to deal with unpredictable weather. Great layering pieces are important for any wardrobe. They not only add extra warmth during the cold but add versatility to your wardrobe by making Spring and Summer pieces wearable in the cold weather. The best layering pieces will keep you comfortable while still being fashionable. In this post, I am sharing a round up of the best layering pieces to invest in.

Picking out the right pieces is important. The best layering pieces are of great quality and versatile. Once you have the right layers you won’t have to keep purchasing them each year. Great layers can also help you create new and fun outfits by adding depth and interest to the pieces of clothing you already own.

12 Best Layering Pieces

White Button Down

A white button down is one of the most classic pieces of clothing you can have in your wardrobe. This is an item that you won’t regret investing in. You want to look for a button down that is fitted but not too tight. Side slits make it more versatile. The bust area can be one of the most difficult parts to find the right fit. I prefer something that is 100% cotton or close to it. One of the best white button downs I’ve found is from the brand Classic Six.

For the Fall and Winter, its a great base layer for dressy or work outfits. Layering a sweater or sweater dress over it is an outfit formula that works every time. In this post, I’ve shared four other ways to style it.

Fitted T-Shirt

One of the most essential layering pieces is a fitted long-sleeve t-shirt. Having a few neutral ones in a range of necklines will get you thru the Fall and Winter and even into cooler Spring days. I like my layering tees to have a bit of stretch so they fit well. So when I shop I look for something with a bit of elastane in it. They need to be pretty fitted so that they’ll fit nicely under other items. The ones I wear the most are my turtleneck t-shirts. I like that they are shown more under other layers. If you are someone that doesn’t like the feel of sweaters or other things then find a super soft shirt to wear under items, it will provide warmth and comfort!

A fitted top can work for warmth under sweaters, jackets and dresses. They look great when worn under a puffer or faux fur vest. They also look good under a moto jacket. They are also one of the best layers to make a Spring or Summer item work in the winter. A big trend lately is to layer a turtleneck top under a sleeveless dress. When you layer a crewneck top or sweater over a turtleneck it adds a layer of interest to the outfit. You can use this opportunity to mix and match colors, patterns or fabrics.

Denim Jacket

I love a denim jacket. I love how they are comfortable, go with pretty much everything and something you don’t have to think much about when styling. When it comes to picking the right one for you, pick one that fits your style the best. Do you tend to like to wear oversized or more fitted jackets? When you wear a denim jacket, will you be more likely to layer things under it or over it? Use those questions to decide whether you want a more classic fit or oversized. Finding the right one will guarantee its one of those pieces of clothing you have in your wardrobe forever! And like any denim, as you wear the jacket it will be more worn in and get super soft.

Last Spring I put together 4 outfit ideas here. Denim Jackets may seem like something for Fall or Spring but with a few extra layers they can work for winter. Start with a warm long sleeve shirt then if you have a fitted jacket layer that next then add an oversized shacket or sweater. You’re basically treating the jacket more like a shirt than a jacket. If your denim jack is more oversized layer a sweatshirt or sweater under it.

Button Down Dress

Like the classic white button down shirt I mentioned above, a button down dress can serve you for a long time in your wardrobe. Find one that is fitted but not tight. You want it to be flattering and fit your shape appropriately. Think of how your favorite dresses fit and go for something similar. I like it to be a straight fit or slightly a-line. An important aspect is to make sure its not see thru! This white one is my favorite.

While they can be worn on their own or as a base layer for sweaters, sweater vests, and sweater dresses. With the simplicity of the dress, you can show off a faux fur or other statement piece. They are also great to add length to an outfit. I like to wear them under a sweater dress or tunic length item that is shorter than I want. The button down dress adds the length I need to make an outfit work appropriate.

Fleece Tights

Whenever you really just need to stay warm, fleece lined tights are an absolute must. These tights have a fleece layer on the inside so they’re also as comfortable and super soft as they are warm. They are especially helpful when you need to dress up and wear a skirt or dress but it is extra cold out. They provide extra warmth whenever needed!

Faux Leather Leggings

Another important bottom half layering piece is faux leather leggings. I consider one of the Fall & Winter essential pieces of clothing. Faux leather leggings are a great base layer to build outfits on. You can wear heels, boots and tennis shoes with them. Tunic-length sweaters and tops work perfectly with them. See a full post on how to style them here.

Tunic Length Tops

Having both a fitted and oversized tunic length top will extend your wardrobe. Leggings are a Fall & Winter essential and most of the time you need something tunic length or long to wear with them. I have many tops and sweaters that aren’t quite long enough to wear with leggings on their own. Layer a tunic length top under them and now you have double the amount of items you can wear with leggings!

Oversized Sweater

A great top layer is an oversized sweater. Wool and cashmere are the best fabrics for sweaters. They will both retain heat and hold their shape well. Merino wool is a good indicator of quality. Not only is it durable but it is super soft. Look for a sweater with a strong weave and seams that will hold up and hold their shape. I love turtleneck sweaters and seem to buy those the most. As far as an oversized sweater, I love for something that is a little boxy and hits around mid-thigh at the lowest.

As a layering piece, there are tons of possibilities. Layer the sweater over dresses to create a sweater and skirt look. It’s another way to make some of your Spring & Summer items work in the winter. Layer an oversized sweater on top of a longer-length top that has a contrasting color or print. To balance the oversized top, stick with a fitted bottom like skinny jeans, fitted skirt or leggings.

Cardigans

Cardigans seem to bring up references to old-fashioned teachers and Mr. Rogers. That doesn’t have to be the case, the right cardigan can be just as chic and versatile as any other sweater. Look for fun details and cuts to make it stand out. Like I mentioned above, wool and cashmere are the best fabrics for quality sweaters.

Style cardigans similar to oversized sweaters. When only lightweight layers are needed, a cardigan can take the place of a light jacket. My favorite way to wear long cardigans is over a fitted shirt or sweater dress with knee-high boots. It keeps you covered up and warm!

Flannel Button Down

Think of flannel as the casual version of the white button down. While I recommend neutral colors for most of the best layering pieces, not this one. Have fun collecting a few with your favorite color combinations! Fitted flannels can layer under sweaters and other tops. with pullover, items have the collar peek out. They’ll add a splash of color to your outfit and a place to mix and match fabrics. Flannels can also be an outer layer. Wear them open over a fitted t-shirt, crop top or tank. If you have too many layers on you can take a flannel off and tie it around your waist! They are one of those pieces that you’ll even want to wear when you work from home because they are super soft.

Sweater Vest

While it is a bit of a trend, I think sweater vests will be around for a while. Since they’ve come back from the 90’s the neutral color styles can be worn so many ways with all your winter favorites. This post has a ton of ideas and options on how to style them.

Tank Tops/ Camisoles

While not one of the most exciting layers, this base layer is super important. I wear a tank like this one under most of my sweaters. Even if the tank isn’t seen, it can be helpful to wear when a sweater is itchy or not as comfortable as a tank would be. For the right tanks and camis, focus on a flattering fit. I prefer a scoop neck top within a fabric that won’t stretch too much.

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