- Layering for fall can add dimension and interest to your daily outfits.
- If you’re prepping for the cooler months, you’ll need just six essential pieces to create multiple outfits.
- Learn how minimalist style is about playing with different proportions, mixing and matching prints, incorporating various textures, and balancing silhouettes.
How to Layer for Fall
Fall layering is much more than just a way to stay warm as the weather cools down; it’s a functional, fashionable way to express yourself through a smaller wardrobe. Layering adds dimension and depth to every ensemble to create something versatile and stylish. If you’re interested in looking chic and feeling cozy this fall, there are several essential outfit pieces you need in your wardrobe. Take a look at the layering pieces we believe every woman should own to learn how to layer for fall using these six must-have pieces.
1. Lightweight Shirt
This is one of the most important choices in your fall layering wardrobe. Your base shirt is the layer closest to your skin, so it needs to be the most comfortable piece in your rotation. Whether you opt for a t-shirt, long-sleeve shirt, button-up, or tank top, make sure you choose something breathable. You should also opt for a neutral color that allows you to wear this top in every single one of your layering outfits. If you’re not a fan of white or black, we recommend cream, beige, fawn, brown, grey, or navy as your fall neutrals.
2. Cardigan
One of the most traditional choices for fall layering, the classic cardigan is a mid-weight layer that goes on second or third in the layering order. A loose cardigan with a large knit offers a cozy, comfortable elegance that’s perfect for relaxed atmospheres, while a structured cashmere cardigan elevates your ensemble to make it appropriate for work.
You can wear cardigans open or buttoned up, depending on how warm or cold your environment happens to be. In some cases, all you need to layer under your cardigan is a lightweight shirt to stay comfortable. As the weather cools even more, it’s easy to throw a blazer or jacket over a thinner cardigan for additional layering.
3. Turtleneck
We absolutely love a turtleneck sweater for fall layering because it adds structure and sophistication to your ensemble while keeping you as warm as possible. Turtlenecks always look polished, regardless of whether they’re oversized or fitted. If you want to create an elegant office look, we recommend pairing your turtleneck with tailored pants. When the weather cools down even more, add a blazer or trench coat to your ensemble for comfort on rainy days.
4. Trousers or Knit Pants
Trousers or knit pants are another fall layering staple for this wardrobe list. We recommend opting for trousers for more elevated outfits and knit pants for your casual outings. These can be paired with oversized sweaters, tunics, or even vests for a fall outfit that’s just as warm as it is stylish.
5. Scarf
The scarf is a great choice for fall layering, especially if you don’t want to wear something with a high neckline. A scarf will keep your neck warm while ensuring you have another opportunity to add unique color, print, and texture to an outfit. Drape it over your shoulders like a shawl or wrap it securely around your neck to ward off the winds.
6. Trench Coat
The trench coat is one of the most iconic fall layering pieces. Since it’s your final layer, it’s easy to grab and go. Trench coats are typically tailored with a military silhouette, offering a mid-length outer piece that adds dimension to your look. It’s an especially good choice due to its versatility, as you can wear it open to showcase the layers underneath or belt it at the waist to preserve warmth and create a sleek, fitted shape.
How to layer for fall with a trench coat? Wear it over a sweater and skirt combo, with a blouse and tailored pants, or even over a dress.
Basic Principles of Layering
The most important part of fall layering is choosing the correct fabrics for your wardrobe. Lightweight and breathable fabrics are mandatory for your base and bottom layers. Then, as you slowly add more pieces, the textiles get heavier and more insulating. Here are a few of our recommended materials for each layer:
- Base Layer: Cotton, Tencel, Bamboo, Silk Satin
- Medium Layer: Knits, Flannel, Cashmere
- Top Layer: Corduroy, Down, Wool, Fleece
After you have your layering materials sorted, it’s time to consider the proportions of each piece in your outfit. The most common choice for fall layering is allowing each consecutive layer to be longer and looser than the last. So, your base shirt is the tightest, shortest layer, while your outerwear is your thickest, longest layer. However, there are many ways you can play with length, silhouette, and texture between layers to create more interesting outfits. Experiment with how to layer for fall to discover what works best for you.
Styling Tips
If you’re concerned about so many layers, these styling tips are for you. How to layer for fall to ensure a minimalist, sleek style is all about playing with different proportions, mixing and matching prints, incorporating various textures, and balancing the silhouettes of each piece.
Consider blending silky and knitted fabrics in the same outfit, or wear a longer bottom layer that peeks out from beneath your cardigan to showcase every aspect of your ensemble. You might even choose to mix houndstooth, tartan, or plaid for a unique look! Here are a few styling tips to get you started:
- Always start with a soft, thin base layer
- Wear a thick knit or oversized silhouette on top with a silky, fitted piece on the bottom
- Mix and match different patterns with the same hues for a cohesive look
- Use accessories to bring a look together, matching shoes, purses, and scarves
Your Version of Fall Layering
Of course, you should include other pieces in your fall layering wardrobe other than what’s on this list. These pieces are just the ones we absolutely have to have in a fall capsule set. Missing anything that we’ve recommended here? Explore our new arrivals and best sellers to find the stylish pieces you need for every season.
And if you’re looking for additional styling inspiration, explore our blog to find articles that explore minimalist styling for every occasion.
