Layer for 2008

Fashion, like a good relationship, works best when you understand its many layers. This not-so-new but all-important concept is crucial. Wearing layers has the ability to spruce up traditional outfits, like the fundamental T-shirt and jeans combo, plus it allows you to reuse your basic wardrobe staples time and time again, recreating different outfits. Basically, wearing layers takes your clothes -- and your look -- to a whole new level.

Follow our tips for wearing layers and you’re guaranteed to multiply the options in your wardrobe -- in addition to looking dapper for the ladies.



Avoid oversized or bulky garments
The fundamental rule for wearing layers is: Avoid oversized or bulky garments altogether. The purpose of layers is to create a warm, sophisticated look that’s both smooth and complementary. Layering pieces that are too big or too bulky will only defeat the purpose. Piling on clothes that are either too large or too heavy causes you to appear disheveled and overstuffed. For example, a nice sweater worn over a dress shirt that’s too big looks messy and unkempt, while adding a heavy wool sweater over a collared shirt appears hulking and disproportionate. So, when wearing layers, use only those garments in your closet with a classic light and tailored fit.



Wear heavier fabrics on top
As you start building a layered outfit, start with the lighter fabrics underneath and the heavier ones on the top. When wearing layers, you should build them gradually in terms of weight from the inside out. In constructing the outfit this way, your overall appearance will be fluid because you are actually “building up” your look. Failure to do so will create a cumbersome, sad-looking outfit that’s unbalanced and aesthetically displeasing. Picture a polo shirt over a cotton T-shirt -- that works. Now picture a polo shirt over a cotton sweater -- that’ll make you look like a social retard.

Hopefully you’re not color blind when you start wearing layers.



Be wary of layering multiple patterns
Patterns are another caveat when wearing layers: Always be wary of layering multiple patterns. Though mixing and matching patterns and prints creates extremely sharp outfits, it also causes some really bad ones too; the perfect balance must be struck to avoid seizure-inducing looks. But while mixing patterns is an art in and of itself, you should feel empowered to experiment, especially if you start small.
Begin by coordinating a lightly patterned white button-up with a more heavily patterned sweater that uses the same main color. However, until you’ve truly mastered pattern mixology, it’s probably best to err on the side of caution and use a 1:1 ratio (one pattern with one solid).


Complement the colors of each layer
The best fashionites wearing layers use complementary colors to balance the overall appearance of their final look. Using complementary or matching colors ensures that all the layers in the outfit work in tandem, plus it establishes another level of successful “construction” to the outfit. When the color palettes of the individual garments correspond and/or match, the completed look seems intentional, thoughtful and dashing. For example, a red sweater vest over a button-up shirt with hints of red brings out the minor colors in the bottom layer, successfully integrating the two components together.



peeling back the layers
Wearing layers has many advantages. You can create new looks with the simple addition of a single garment; you can reuse different pieces in different ways, giving them more use and meaning; you can stay warmer all winter long; and, most importantly, you can walk around more stylishly and confidently. Give layering the fair shake it deserves with these four steps in mind, and layering will give you a whole new outlook on life -- and a whole new outfit on you.