Some might call layering clothes an art. But whether you have a natural talent for it or not, one thing is certain: The best layered outfits always start with good basics.
As we combed through the most recent street-style looks from Fashion Month, a myriad of outfit formulas went straight to our saved folder for future inspiration. What struck us most was how the chicest looks began with classic wardrobe pieces—those tried-and-true essentials, many of which you probably already own. T-shirts, button-down shirts, knitwear, and blazers are all powerful players in the layering game and should be treated as such.
As the seasons change and transitional fall dressing has begun, use our guide below as your personal master class. Here are nine outfit ideas and styling tips on how to layer clothes this fall like a pro.
1. Load Up on the Best Basics
Wardrobe staples are the key to layering, and that means investing in the right ones that can easily be mixed and matched with ease. This street-style look proves that layering is as easy as one, two, three. Start with a white T-shirt and button-down, add a cozy V-neck cardigan, and top it off with an oversize leather motorcycle jacket. Worn with trousers and simple shoes, it’s a master class in fall dressing.
Acne Studios Lilket Distressed Leather Moto Jacket
Loulou Studio Zanzibar V-Neck Cardigan
J.Crew Garçon Classic Shirt
Vince Drop-Waist Pleated Crepe Trousers
2. Break Up Black With a White Button-Down
A white button-down is one of the most essential wardrobe pieces one can own. When wearing an all-black monochromatic look, we recommend layering one of these crisp white shirts into the mix. It instantly gives any look a little extra pop and fashion-forward twist. Adding an extra T-shirt underneath helps, too.
Sandro Long Double-Breasted Coat
Babaton Futurism Skirt
Khaite Davis Knee-High Boot
3. Layer Necklines the Off-Duty Way
Playing with varying necklines is one technique the street-style set often use to break up the monotony of dressing for fall and winter. Here, we see just how chic layering the same type of neckline can be. By adding a contrasting-colored T-shirt underneath your chunky, crewneck sweater, you get a little extra texture and color play. Adding a leather jacket on top adds a finishing element that looks and feels effortless.
COS Pure Cashmere Sweater
Éterne Boyfriend T-Shirt
4. Always Add a Turtleneck Underneath
Cold-weather dressing is nothing without a trusty turtleneck. Every closet needs a few of the stretchy, thin turtleneck versions—a style tailor-made for great layering combinations. Whether you are aiming to balance new proportions (as demonstrated here under a blazer with a voluminous bubble skirt) or simply want to liven up a favorite cashmere sweater, a fitted turtleneck made from butter-soft material always comes in handy. It can add both an element of warmth when the temperatures drop and extra style points for its minimalist flair.
Smythe 20th Anniversary Asymmetrical Blazer
Commando Butter Long-Sleeved Turtleneck
Ferragamo Bria 60MM Cap-Toe Pumps
5. Use an Unexpected Texture
Take style notes from the new boho girls at Chloé; in this case, we suggest adding an unexpected layer to your everyday mix. A ruffled lace blouse brings a bit of romance to your look and acts as a great focal point. Case in point: This look proves how cool it can be layered beneath the many tailored vests you might have acquired as of late. The sheerness brings a bit of femininity, that the usual plain T-shirt or button-down shirt doesn’t quite grasp. It's a fresh way to rework trendy pieces with a genius, Parisian twist.
Loewe Single-Breasted Wool Vest
Mango Ruffled Guipure Shirt
Agolde Dame High-Waist Wide-Leg Jeans
Jenny Bird Doune Slim Hoop Earrings
6. Take Inspiration From Prep School Uniforms
Uniform dressing is in and of itself full of layering tips. Take the back-to-school theme to new heights by loading up on all of the typical elements one might find in a prep school wardrobe, blended into one look. Try layering a cardigan over a V-neck sweater, and a button-down shirt underneath. Consider Miu Miu’s recent runway collections as your masterful styling guide.
Loro Piana Classic Baby Cashmere Cardigan
Theory Karenia Neu Sweater
Toteme Organic Cotton Button-Front Shirt
Miu Miu Knit and Poplin Skirt
7. Mix Menswear-Inspired Pieces
Take a page from the men’s style book and indulge in all the best menswear-inspired pieces. Think: timeless trench coats, suiting (even a three-piece option would do well here), and shirting that can really go the distance. Accessorize with a pointy pump and minimalist shoulder bag to finish it off.
Toteme Tumbled Cotton Silk Trench Coat
Helmut Lang Combo Modest Suit Jacket
Helmut Lang Colorblock Slim-Fit Suit Pants
Khaite River Leather Slingback Pumps
8. Double Up on Jackets
Layering outerwear is a no-brainer during the cooler months, but sometimes the idea can be better in theory versus actually pulling it off. A good rule of thumb is to make sure the outermost layer is oversize, while the layer underneath is slimmer, and tighter, fitting closer to the body. Adding a statement belt with metallic hardware adds extra dimension and appeal to modern suiting, while also cinching the waistline underneath, eliminating any extra bulk.
The Frankie Shop Gray Gelso Oversize Blazer
Babaton Standout Blazer
The Frankie Shop Gray Gelso Pleated Trousers
Isabel Marant Ory Leather and Silver-Tone Belt
9. Throw a Sweater Over Your Shoulders
While this may seem like the easiest tip, it’s certainly still worth a callout. For days when the weather is a bit more unpredictable—where it can start out brisk, but warm up by the afternoon—add a sweater over the shoulders that can double like a scarf. When you’re feeling cold, you can layer the knit over your button-down for a classic outfit pairing.
Co Striped Cotton Long-Sleeved Shirt
The Row Ophelia Wool-Cashmere Sweater
Rag & Bone Featherweight Sofie Wide-Leg Jeans
