Every year we stress the importance of layering as we move into the colder months. Not only does it allow you to stack your favorite pieces and play with your silhouettes, but it’s also a useful way to fight the elements during fall and winter. But, while more layers mean better shapes and more warmth, they also mean that there are more ways to go wrong. That’s why we’ve linked up with MR PORTER for a layering masterclass.
Everyone’s tactics and wardrobes are different, though, so we can’t teach a layering masterclass without making some generalizations. As such, we’ve rounded up 10 pieces that apply to all layering situations. From sweatshirts through to various vests and lightweight top layers, consider these the foundational building blocks to a good, layered fit for fall and winter.
Your layering begins with a base layer, so make sure that it’s a strong one. We’re not talking about tees, though, we consider your sweater as your starting point. Opting for a bold base layer is a good way to bring some colorful fun into your fit and it allows you to keep things toned down in your mid and top layers. We’re loving sweater vests right now and they amount to a perfect base layer, but we couldn’t resist a hypnotic Celine sweater, too.
We love a mid layer because there’s such a wide range of possibilities when it comes to styling. Mid layers are the real stars of layering, too, providing a lot of insulation. Canali’s rain & wind-tech shell gilet offers a luxe utilitarian link between your base layer and top layer with the added advantage of having no sleeves so there’s little interference between layers. Séfr and Stone Island selections sit between shirts and jackets — lightweight enough for mid layers but solid enough to act as a top layer if it’s a warmer day.
When it comes to layering, your top layer arguably sets the tone for your full fit. It’s the first layer we see and although we know not to judge a book by its cover, it certainly has to give the best first impression. Fear of God and Officine Générale come with thin top layers to work in harmony with your mid layers while our C.P. Company selection is one to keep in the locker until winter. The hoodless build allows you to show peeks of lower layers with finesse.
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