Top Tips for Fall Layers

Nov 4

Nov 4 Top Tips for Fall Layers

So, it’s getting cooler here in Chicago, and you’re probably ready to bring out the sweaters and boots. However, if you’re like me, there are probably some items you aren’t ready to push to the back of the closet just yet, or if you’re also like me, you’ll leave the house wearing one thing and then realize it got colder or warmer than what you were expecting and are now freezing walking back home or sweating in Target. What if I were to tell you that there are ways around these things? Yes, this article is about layering, but I’m writing about it because it really is helpful and I’ll even include some tips and tricks that I’ve tried in my own nineteen years of life.

The Sweater-Dress Combo:

One of my personal favorite ways to continue wearing some of my dresses in the cooler days of fall is to layer a sweater over them. And I don’t just mean wearing a button-down cardigan. I really enjoy wearing pullover sweaters over my dresses, and sometimes I fold them over to crop them and give the outfit a little extra flair. A crewneck or mock-neck sweater, especially if it’s a more relaxed-fit, looks really cute over a slip dress with some boots, whereas a cropped (or folded over to give the illusion of being cropped) fitted sweater looks really cute over a skater dress with some flats and tights (this is a look I’ve been loving recently).

Sweater Over a Button-Down

Another one of my favorite looks is a sweater layered over a polo or button-down shirt. It’s a look that’s simple, warm, and stylish. I especially like it for days when it’s freezing in the morning but then warms up later, since you can just remove the sweater and wear the shirt on its own and still be warm and look put-together. Another thing I like about this look is that you’re free to play with different color combos and prints- I love wearing a plain sweater and then layering a polka-dotted shirt under, since it adds a little something extra to the outfit. I also especially like this look for travel, since it’s very easy to just mix and match different shirts and sweaters if you’re only bringing a carry-on and being mindful of space.

Tights Under a Dress or Skirt

For the sweater-dress combo mentioned above, you can add some tights under to prevent your legs from getting cold, whether you’re wearing flats or boots. Tights are also a good way to bring your skirts into the fall and winter months. Since it’s not super cold right now in Chicago, regular tights are fine, but when it gets really cold, tons of places sell fleece-lined tights, and they’re such a game-changer, and I say this as someone who is from Miami and always cold. Another good thing about tights is that you can stay on the simple side or you can choose different colors or prints to really spice up your look.

Outer Layer

Jackets, coats, and other outer layer items are also a really good way of layering. Not only are there some great options out there, but you can also choose how thick or warm you want this outer layer to be. Another good thing about outer layer items is that you can just throw it on over an outfit without much thought, but it’s something that can really elevate your outfit and also pull it together.