by Sara Lugardo

Created on: October 05, 2012   Last Updated: October 11, 2012

Colder seasons are sometimes thought of as a hindrance when it comes to fashion because you lose the ability to flaunt your assets and show a little skin. However, instead of seeing colder seasons as a hindrance to fashion, people should think of it as an opportunity to add dimension to their ensemble through layers. The art of layering for cold weather is something that can enhance your overall look and make for great outfits that make a statement.

Comfort

With many people associating warmer clothing with uncomfortable and itchy sweaters, the key to fashionably laying for cold weather is to think of comfort first. The initial layer should definitely be something comfortable to the skin. This could mean a simple cotton tank top for ladies and a under t-shirt for men.

This is not only an important layer for creating a comfortable barrier for your skin but it was helps with forming a foundation for your overall look. This first layer should be form fitting and neutral in color because added layers will increase to the bulkiness of your silhouette. The neutral color will act as a base to start, coupled with the fact that this item will mostly be hidden.

Sweater

A sweater is a great layer for colder weather because it adds warmth to your outfit. This can take the form of a patterned or bold design on a sweater, cardigan or V-neck. This is a great way to adhere to fashion trends like mixing and matching patterns and designs. However, this is also a great way to do a color-blocking style with a contrasting pant.

Coat

Many people don’t realize the added effect a coat can add to an outfit. Coats shouldn’t be looked at as big, bulky items to simply keep warm. Coats can be trendy, form fitting and very complementary to a person’s figure. Whether it’s a cinched coat to create an hour glass figure or a dressy wool coat with a high collar, coats are the best layer for finishing off a look. This is the fashion forward item that will be most noticed, so this should be a quality piece that has versatility. The University Coat by J. Crew is a great wool coat that is versatile enough to be worn in the fall or spring and yet still be able to be worn over layers in the winter months.

Accessories

Layering doesn’t have to consist of just clothing items. Layering with accessories is a great way to create a certain look or statement that will make you stand apart from the rest. This can mean clunky beaded multi-strand necklaces to drape over a low cut sweater. However, this can also mean fashion scarves with a detailed knot. Scarves have definitely made their mark in recent years for being more than just cold weather items. Fashion scarves come in varying materials from simple knit to satin or silk. The material, knot and design of the scarf can make for an interesting layer that can act as a focal point for your ensemble.

The art of laying for cold weather can be done easily with many items you might already own. Mixing certain pieces together to create a cohesive look can make for great winter fashion. Take advantage of the pieces you already own and make a real statement this winter by both staying warm and being fashionable.

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