Winter is a highly celebrated season in the fashion world. It's a time for fashion lovers to showcase their taste, style and creativity with layers of clothing that showcase your unique sense of style, your fashionista personality, or to make a bold, risk-taking fashion statement.
These simple strategies will have you layering your winter fits like a stylist while being practical, comfortable, stylish and on-trend.
The Base Layer
Begin with the first layer, which should be a close-fitting, comfortable and light item. This layer is usually only visible at the neck with collars or turtlenecks. A section of the sleeve, cuff or hemline may also be visible. Depending on your following layers, this layer may be subtly visible down the centre. Keep this in mind when selecting your colour. Will your base layer be a subtle statement piece or set the tone for your colour palette?
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Aside from providing insulation, the base layers' function regulates moisture. Even in cold weather, your body perspires, especially if you wear a winter coat. Also, the condensation can end up making you feel colder.
Base layers made of polyester mixes and merino wool fibres are ideal since they're breathable, moisture-regulating and warm. In severely cold conditions, consider wearing thermals beneath the base layer. Merino wool or silk is the most effective thermal fabric. Some of our favourite base-layers include the Adidas Originals B Ball Surreal Top, Puma BTL Graphic T-shirt Bold Black, and The North Face Triangle Box Long Sleeve Top.
The Middle Layer
The middle layer is where creativity starts shining through. Here, you can choose from comfortably fitting sweaters, open or knotted button-downs, stylish blazers and cardigans. With more of this layer visible in your outfit as a whole, you can think about introducing certain textures, colours and patterns.
This layer's primary purpose is to trap body heat and keep the wearer warm, with different options to suit different climates. Fleece is a popular choice for mid-layers because of its ability to retain heat while also allowing for ventilation.
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Lightweight softshell jackets are also great for mid-layers, although they are less warm than fleece because they lack insulation. The mid-layer can also take the form of a hoodie or lightweight, padded jacket.
However, the middle layer does not have to be a single item; adding an additional mid-layer of a different texture/material works well. It also works better when both middle layer items are closed, but there is always room for experimentation. For example, combining a smart collared button-down with a tailored sweater can provide some gorgeous contrast before your outer layer. Some of our top picks include the Nike Sportswear Repeat PK Full Zip Hoodie Grey, Nike Sportswear Air Fleece Pullover HD Black Light Bone, Puma BTL Hoodie Mineral Blue, and ellesse Pullover Fleece Hoodie Dress Blue.
The Outer Layer
In terms of outerwear, anything from a coat to a trench, poncho, cape, shawl, or even a vest would do just perfectly. This is going to be the most visible part of your outfit. Think about how its length complements the rest of your outfit.
The more traditional way is a lengthier outer layer, but a cropped jacket also makes a bold statement. Make sure your outerwear fits and drapes correctly before deciding on your final outfit.
The outer layer needs to be warm, resilient, stylish, and in some cases, weather-resistant. You can bulk it up with a winter coat like a parka, bomber or puffer jacket, or you could choose a more elegant route with a fashionable shawl or poncho. Some of our favourites are the Puma X Batman T7 Track Top Black, The North Face Recycled Zaneck Jacket Black, Nike Sportswear Air Woven Lined Jacket Light Grey Black, and Voltage Slim Fit Jeans Dark Indigo.
The Final Touch
From here, you want to add the final touches to your outfit with winter accessories. Beanies, stylish winter gloves and scarves can all be styled to compliment your outfit. We love the Adidas Originals Shorty Beanie Bold Black White, The North Face Logo Box Cuffed Beanie Goblin Blue, and Puma Re:Collection Bucket Hat.
Here at Side Step, we make sure we stay on top of the latest trends, and that includes sourcing the best in fashion from the world's leading brands for this year's winter season. Stock up today for your winter essentials.
