The difference between layering and just wearing too many clothes is all about balance — we've been over this. That's what separates outfits that look like a Hannah Höch collage from outfits that look like the inside of a junk drawer. Sometimes more is more...and sometimes, more is too much.The hard part is that there's really no universal trick to distinguish between the two, but the good news is that solution to the problem — looking at lots of pictures of people who are great at layering — is a ton of fun. Ahead, we've pulled some of our favorite layering looks from the year to get you better acquainted with what to do for the next couple months.
A longer windbreaker underneath a shorter bomber jacket will keep you warm without adding bulk. A heavy-duty turtleneck sweater is sleeker than a scarf, but just as warm.
A mixed-media jacket adds the oomph while a plain pullover over a neutral turtleneck provides a clean background.
A jean jacket can be a great piece to add a little structure to softer puffer jackets.
Light, loose springtime layers can look as pretty as the petals on a flower if you stack them up.
A buttoned-up jacket worn over a turtleneck sweater can still call for a thick coat on top.
Wear a longer gown over trousers, and then top it off with a one-two punch of shorter jackets.
The neon bustier (worn over a button-up) and that flippy apron skirt (worn over cropped trousers) are two unexpected layering moves that look great — not crazy — together.
Ready for a voluminous look that's fit for Versailles? Try a longer patterned coat over a super long floor-dusting jacket.
An easy trick to keep more-is-more looking subdued: Keep it all in the same color family! A pastel crop top under a matching jacket over a blue button-down over a similarly-hued long tunic, over jeans, over leggings...got it?
Consider swapping your black turtleneck for a pretty red one.
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