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The mornings are cooler and crisper, the leaves are turning colors, and pumpkin spice is starting to dominate drive-through coffee shop menus. This can mean only one thing: It’s fall.
If you’re a fall fanatic, you’re not alone. Research shows that 29% of people in the United States consider autumn their favorite season. That’s because the season has long been associated with positive memories, ranging from the start of the school year to upcoming special holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. It’s also associated with some of the most versatile clothing styles with comfy textures and warm hues (e.g., mustard yellow, olive green, terracotta, brown).
The colder temps of fall and winter offer many opportunities for layering clothes, including mixing sweaters, boots, jackets, scarves, and more for a fashionable yet functional look for every occasion. Let’s explore the top five stylish tips for layering clothes stylishly in changing seasons.
Create Your Foundational Layer
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The perfect autumn ensemble begins with a lightweight garment, like a t-shirt or tank top. These wardrobe essentials keep you comfortable all day long by regulating your temperature while providing an attractive base for your fall outfit.
Make your base piece black or white to easily match it with the rest of your ensemble. Choose your base layer material based on your day’s agenda. Polyester or bamboo is an excellent option if you plan to spend time inside or work up a sweat, while a thermal shirt with long sleeves is the best choice for a cold day outdoors.
Cultivate Your Middle Layer
Consider the middle layer the sweet cream filling of your irresistible fall look. Make it crème de la crème by choosing a stylish garment that is also practical, being looser than your base layer and providing the insulation needed to keep you warm. Ideal middle-layer options include a cardigan (knitted sweater) or pullover made of down, wool, and fleece. Rugged-looking blue jeans (like distressed jeans) work perfectly with soft knitted sweaters (like chunky sweaters), helping you sport an in-vogue and comfortable look with minimal effort.
For a fancier and edgier look, consider wearing a silk shirt with slim leather pants. Leather and silk provide the perfect contrast, displaying your sophisticated yet adventure-loving side and penchant for individuality.
Don’t forget to experiment with garments of different lengths. For instance, a short top looks edgy when paired with a long cardigan. Varying lengths create visual interest and help you underline your unique figure.
Top Things Off With an Outer Layer
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No fall ensemble is complete without this critical layer, which provides protection from the weather. Consider a shacket, thick cardigan, or a lightweight jacket for added warmth. If you get too hot, don’t forget that you can always shed this outer layer so that you’re comfortable for whatever the temperatures are outside.
Don’t Forget Dresses & Skirts
Autumn is one of the best times to bypass the pants and tap into your feminine side with cool-weather dresses and skirts. Leather jackets are popular to pair with silky slip dresses for an edgy version of a classic look. Cropped jackets also go well over midi dresses if you have long legs. This combination highlights your waistline and makes your proportions appear longer.
Additional in-demand new skirt styles for the fall range from floral brown to black mesh maxi skirts, beige A-line maxi skirts, and sage mini wrap skirts. Consider wearing maxi skirts with denim jackets, flowy blouses with ruffles or floral prints, and fitted turtlenecks for a sleek and casual look. Mini wrap skirts shine with crop tops, lightweight sweaters, graphic tees, or even blazers for a refined look.
JADE dresses in hues like white and pink are also must-haves for layering season. Mix them with polished-looking blazers for the professional setting, long cardigans, leather jackets, or trench coats for a cosmopolitan vibe.
Keep Your Eyes on Accessorizing
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Scarves, handbags, belts, and boots are the perfect accessories for your favorite layered autumn look. A scarf — whether a thin silk or chunky knit one — can effortlessly add style and color. A belt will instantly add pizzazz by cinching your waist to define your physique even when you’re wearing bulky clothes. Complete your ensemble with knee-high or ankle boots to easily channel your inner model wherever the day takes you.
Layer Clothes With Confidence This Fall
Fall is ideal for showing off your elegant side while keeping warm. Fortunately, layering makes it easy to dress for success when temperatures fluctuate. A moisture-wicking base layer, a stylish sweater or silk shirt in the middle, and a water-resistant outer layer are must-haves for a captivating and comfortable look, rain or shine. Dresses, skirts, and accessories can also take your fall look to the next level. Consider all the above-listed tips for layering clothes to add sizzle to any space as temperatures dip and turn heads for months to come.