If the thought of layering clothes gives you flashbacks to being told to dress for school with the requisite reminder, “Don’t forget your coat,” we promise you that piling it on has never been better. We’ve long associated experimental layering with the Olsen twins in the mid-noughties hiding from the paparazzi in mountains of bohemian fabrics and hefty coatigans. And a decade later, playful layering is still on the style agenda, especially when navigating weatherproof dressing in autumn.
To help, we’ve compiled key layering tricks that will help you get more wear out of your existing favourites over the next few months and help you decide what you need to invest in. If there’s one major tip we can give you, it’s this: You’ll find that one of the most versatile, long-wearing purchases is a black roll-neck, along with a classic leather belt and knee-high boots.
Below, you’ll see classic layering techniques that minimalists always lean on and then more out-there combinations—such as clashing prints and double coats—for those who like to experiment more with their looks. We’ve also collated some of the best layered looks from the autumn runways should you need further inspiration.
Scroll below for outfit formulas to make you excited about adding those extra layers.
ON THE RUNWAY

Photo:
COURTESY OF ALBERTA FERRETTI
Style Notes: Who needs just two layers when you can have three? Take a blouse, a crew-neck knit and a bomber jacket, and wear them all at once for optimum cosiness.

Photo:
COURTESY OF JIL SANDER
Style Notes: Sheer layers always look elegant after dark. Wear them with bra tops underneath for a 2021 spin.