I use to think a collard shirt and jeans was dressed up.  These days, I rarely go out of the house with just one item on and with no layers. To do layering right, here’s what you need to know:

Hide Your Weight

Layering is the easiest way to cover up any extra pounds (among other things).  If you do it right it’ll make you appear slimmer and not bulky.  It’s all about the fit of the pieces you have and how they go together.  So if if layer with clothes that are large already, you’ll simply look bulky, but if you layer with clothing thats fitted you look slimmer. 

The most important layer is your top layer since it’s the most viewable.  The easiest way to layer is with a blazer jacket, but there are many other options as well like vests, cardigans, or v-neck sweaters.  And if it’s too hot in the summer wear you live make sure to wear THIN material with each of your layers.

Versatility

You can increase the amount of outfits that go together well with simple layering techniques.  Let’s say you have a great pair of jeans or slacks, a graphic t-shirt, a collard shirt and a blazer.  Those 4 pieces can give you 4 combinations (assuming the items of clothing work well together).  Now throw a vest or low v-neck into the mix and you have 8 combinations with only one extra piece.  

Increase Your Personal Style

With the more pieces you can wear and the more variations that are available to you, the more you can really fine tune your style.  Layering is also a great way to bring attention to yourself. Next time you’re out in public, take a while to look around you at other people and notice who looks stylish and who does not.  I’m willing to bet that those who look stylish on average are wearing more pieces.  

Emulate A Look

No matter what style you’re into you can do layering.  The qq look is based on suits, collard shirts, vests and sweaters.  The rocker look is based on leather/jean jackets, t-shirts, vests, accessories.  The preppy look is based on cardigans, collard shirts, sweater vests.  The list goes on, but the important thing is that no matter what your style there’s a type of layering that you can do.

What can you layer with: Here’s a quick list of items you can layer with.

• Jackets - Blazers, leather, jean etc.
• Hoodies
• Vests - Formal or casual
• V-Neck Sweaters - Long sleeves or short
• T-shirts 
• Sleeveless-shirts
• Ties
• Scarves
• Accessories - Bracelets, necklaces, rings and combinations thereof
• Pocket Squares

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