Here we are, mid-November, and it’s starting to get COLD. The temperatures here in Canada are set to drop each and every day until we reach those unbearable, miserable, ice age-esque, winter days. But not like the cute kind you see on the Hallmark Christmas movies where they rush into the nearby motel and have hot chocolate by the fire until it passes… I’m talking about the ugly, windy, -30 degrees kind of days. We aren’t quite there yet, but regardless… it’s time to bundle up! 

When I say bundle up, I’m sure your mind automatically goes to chunky Sorel boots, down-filled parkas, and balaclavas. Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with this style when trekking through snow up to your knees. In fact, I recommend it in that scenario. However, there is another way to stay warm AND be stylish… meet the magic of layering. One of the biggest trends this season is layering. We’ve seen it all over the runaways and in celeb-streetwear. It’s a super cool way to show off several of your fav pieces in one outfit. Layering not only looks sooo chic and put together, but is also so practical for this time of year. A win-win! 

I’ve put together some outfit ideas for layering this season:

Some tips to creating the perfectly layered outfit: 

• Your first base should be something more fitted, like a button down shirt or long sleeve turtleneck. If the first layer hugs you close to your skin, it’s less likely for wind to make its way into your shirt and make you cold. It also leaves more room for more oversized top layers. 

• Your second layer can be bigger and bulkier than the first layer. Who doesn’t love some bulk this time of year?? If you started with a button down shirt, your second layer could be a knit sweater with the collar pulled out for a preppy look. Another look could be a long sleeve turtleneck as the base layer paired with a cardigan or blazer as your second layer. Both equally as vibey! 

• Depending on the weather (or how big of a cold whimp you are, like myself), the third layer can be optional. This is where you can throw on an oversized puffer jacket or blazer, a long trench coat, or a big leather jacket. I love this layer because it allows you to switch up the outfit depending on if you’re inside or outside. 

• Once you’ve selected your layers, it’s time for the fun part… accessories! You can add a scarf, a toque, gloves, a fun bag, a bucket hat, jewelry, or whatever your little heart desires. The accessories will take this already sick layered look to an even sicker look.  A must, must, must. 

• I always like to add patterns and textures where I can. Sometimes a layered look with all similar materials can look a little blah, but if you are aware of adding dimensions to the outfit it makes a world of a difference. Knits, plaid, waffle, wool, and stripes are all great patterns to add into a layering masterpiece. 

I hope these tips and ideas help you in creating your layered looks for this season. Let us stay warm & stylish together!

Until next hump day…

Peace & love!

TL