Master The Art With These Outfit Ideas & Expert Tips

The days of wearing form-fitting tank tops over flowy maxi skirts and cute sundresses are over for this year. The increasingly chilly weather calls for a wardrobe update that includes warmer pieces and, of course, knowing how to amass more than a few. This is where learning how to layer outerwear comes in: it maximizes warmth while packing tremendous personality. So stop reaching for the same black down jacket and start taking advantage of the colder temperatures to express yourself.

Wearing your coat with a bulky sweater or jacket (or even another coat!) doesn’t have to be daunting—although it may not be easy at first. “As a sun-reared transplant from Texas, the art of layering didn’t come naturally to me,” says Joe Van O, stylist and creative director at Elena Velez. “But once you can weave the adventure of the climate into the story of your style, the whole process feels very rewarding and luxurious.”

The key is to start with a base layer that is both functional and versatile. “I suggest investing in quality underwear (t-shirts, tank tops and leggings) so that you feel beautiful every step of the way when you get dressed,” Van O told TZR. “The trick is actually building up a series of multiple layers of light that can be emitted individually to best meet the needs of the day.” If you start with a simple foundation, a variety of outerwear basics will fit neatly over it without distracting the eye or adding too much volume.

“You can always rely on the standard of wearing lighter to heavier layers to achieve a slimmer look,” says Ty Hunter, longtime Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child stylist. His favorite layering piece? “Definitely my long black cardigan. I can wear it with anything. I can wear it in layers or just as a jacket,” he notes.

When creating a multidimensional outfit, Van O advises playing with color and texture. “You have to find the common thread of the look and keep it flowing down to the smallest detail,” he explains. And don’t be afraid to add other seasonal pieces to your winter wardrobe. “A spring jacket underneath a cropped jacket can give you a more modern look,” Hunter tells TZR.

From trench coats to vests, leather jackets to casual down jackets, there’s just so much to play with in cooler weather – especially when paired with the right accessories. With thick scarves, high boots and cozy hats, your layered look will be taken to the next level. “When you’re putting together a winning outfit, I suggest starting with a piece in your closet that inspires what you want to say about yourself that day,” explains Van O. “From there, every other component of your Outfits harmonize with this one [central] Piece.” Start by investing in a flashy coat or funky vest and build on that single staple.

Read on for a few layered outerwear looks worth trying this season—and tips on how to achieve them with total comfort and flair.

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sweatshirt + leather jacket

It’s the ultimate cool-girl combo: a comfy, oversized sweatshirt with a fancy leather jacket loosely thrown over it, the perfect balance between effortless and put together. Van O agrees: “Layering is all about strategy, and I love the pairing of highs and lows as a general style rule,” he says. The combination of fleece and leather will not only keep you warm for a day of coffee and errands, the combination is also extremely versatile, taking you seamlessly from day to night. Try matching bottoms: sweats for a more casual look or black leather pants for a sophisticated approach to comfort. Complete the fit with some platform boots and cat-eye sunglasses for the perfect model off-duty look.

jumpsuit + buffer

The resurgence of fresh fall air means the return of perhaps the most timeless outerwear staple: the puffer fish. Update this streetwear-inspired jacket by throwing it over a jumpsuit for chic but relaxed style. Try playing with oversized cropped puffers and vests while experimenting with denim and silky jumpsuits to find a vibe that suits you.

Zipper, blazer, + cropped jacket

Nothing elevates an outfit like layering and forbes Style contributor Olivia Perez (above) has mastered the art of stacking clothes. Follow her lead and try donning a zip-up hoodie, blazer, and a cropped jacket as a finishing touch. This look can be achieved with a variety of textures and color combinations, making it a reliable combination that will stand up to any trend cycle. Such a layered outfit risks looking too busy, so be sure to stick to a general theme. “A common misconception when putting together an outfit is that color or prints in your outfit reflect more personality or self-expression,” reflects Van O. “However, when you look at the most successful explosive outfits, they usually follow the rules of tonal balance, honoring the extremity of the pieces.”

Knit with collar + coat

Outerwear doesn’t always have to be casual. Elevate your cold-weather style with a classic long coat and sophisticated knit collar. Preppy-meets-practical with this foolproof combo, especially when you pair it with a mini skirt, tights and knee high boots. Stick to a warm color scheme (but don’t be afraid to add a few patterns) that add cosiness to those gray winter days. Complete the look with a classic shoulder bag and cat-eye sunglasses for the ultimate Parisian-style outfit. As Van O says, “Your coat, shoes and bag should always be the greatest investment in your personal wardrobe and will be key to achieving a strong sense of your personal style on a daily basis.”

jacket + sweater

Keep it simple this season with basics you’ll probably already have in your closet. A chunky sweater pairs beautifully with an oversized zipped jacket, perfect for those chilly days and colder nights. Tie the knit loosely around your shoulders when the sun is shining through, or team the look with a scarf and straight-leg jeans when the temperature drops. The simplicity of this outfit also leaves room for reinterpretation through a variety of accessories. “I believe in dressing how you feel,” says Hunter. “If you’re comfortable in it, you can’t go wrong.”