How to Look Good in Layers

This is the outfit I have essentially been living in lately - with minor variations. Basic white v-necks are my wardrobe staples. Specifically, ones from Madewell with a great boyfriend fit. The day that I heard they had been discontinued was a very sad time for me. 

For warmth, wear a cozy and cute cashmere zip-up. It may mean paying a little more to get legitimate cashmere, but it will absolutely keep you warmer and it is worth it! Over the zip-up, wear a preppy blazer, which will take the outfit in a more structured and chic direction instead of just basic and casual. 

Wear a fun scarf in a pretty color and your favorite skinny jeans - as you all know, mine are "The Stilt" by AG - and a riding boot - my Frye's are my favorite pair that I wear everywhere. In terms of jewelry, I've been wearing a big cuff and a cocktail ring.

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How to Look Good in Layers

Denim jackets are tricky. They can look pretty tacky, but I am actually a big fan and I think they can look really cute. Especially over stripes. It gives a nautical / Americana impression. 

So to stay warm this winter, wear a striped sweater as your base. Put on a denim jacket, and then a puffer coat. I recommend trying on a puffer coat before you commit to the purchase. They can make you look HUGE. However, they are exceptionally warm and if the puffs (is that the right word?) are the right size, I think a puffer can look quite stylish. 

Wear a red circle scarf to keep your neck warm - the picture of this scarf looks very tomato-y but it's not like that in reality which is a good thing. A deeper red looks better with classic nautical stripes. I mean, you don't want to look like an American flag. 

Finally, wear skinny black pants and a black riding boot to polish off the look in a classic and simple way.

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How to Look Good in Layers

I am blogging this as I watch the Golden Globes where the actors are discussing the 80 degree heat in LA. That sounds pretty good right now seeing as I just spent three days in 22 degree NYC and am now in Nashville where temps are around 40. So I can't really visualize myself in a stunning hot pink Calvin Klein - here's looking at you Claire Danes.

What I'm wearing is layers of cashmere, jackets, coats and scarves. The tricky thing about layering is that it is easy to look bulky. And who wants that? Therefore, layering should be considered carefully and pieces picked specifically. Here is an outfit that will keep you warm while still being body flattering.

When layering, try and mix pieces that don't add bulk to the same body parts. I'm not sure that makes perfect sense so let me explain. Instead of wearing a thick sweater under a coat, wear a cropped faux fur vest. A thick sweater under a coat will double the bulk on your arms and could look very thick. 

Therefore, wearing a faux fur vest keeps your upper body warm and the coat keeps your arms warm. Wear a blouse underneath - I like this one in a simple black and white stripe. On the bottom, wear classic black slacks, a simple belt and feminine flats to contrast the menswear coat. You'll be warm and stylish!

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