The art of layering: 5 IMAGE-approved outfits to add to your repertoire

Want to know how to layer successfully during the colder months? These five outfits show just how simple it is to master

February is still winter.

There, I said it. There is no point in fooling ourselves with hopes of green fields, daisies and a light wind because you won’t get it.

It’s dark, it’s raining and there are high winds with a bitter cold that cuts through you. Your clothing choices must be practical. Practicality doesn’t equate to banality, so your outfits can still be stylish while battling the elements.

When it comes to layering, people start to panic. We are inundated with street style imagery which makes layering look like a type of witchcraft. Some people are layering masters and can place 10 items of clothing on their body and not look like a walking talking thrift shop.

Simple

For the rest of us, we need to simplify it.

The best layering piece you will ever buy is a plain top. It sounds boring but a plain long-sleeved top or polo-neck is the centre of any layered outfit. Their versatility is endless – wear under dresses, jumpsuits, hoodies, tops or whatever else you please. Not only do they provide extra heat but there is something unexpected about one being worn underneath an outfit.

From there, keep it simple with hoodies, sweatshirts and a really good coat or oversized blazer. Your entire wardrobe – whether it’s spring or autumn clothes – are then useful options for all layered outfits. However, keep it to a solid four to five pieces. Overcomplicating the thought process will only end with a confused outfit. Stick to the basics, accessorize where you see fit and you are perfectly kitted out for the February cold.

Outfit one

Dogtooth-patterned coat, €79.99 at H&M

Object utility jumpsuit with contrast stitch, €82.95 at ASOS

Basic high-neck sweater, €19.95 at Zara

Aeyde Leandra, €181 at Zalando

My Accessories London black beret, €16.59 at ASOS

Outfit two

Tibi oversized belted faux fur coat, €720 at Net A Porter

Colour block dress, €25.95 at Zara

Long sleeve t-shirt, €12.95 at Zara

ASOS Design Cherry pull-on knee boots, €69.13 at ASOS

Outfit three

Down puffer coat, €250 at Arket

Petite black knitted top, €20 at Topshop

Animal print fleece top, €44 at Topshop

Straight mid-rise jeans, €69 at & Other Stories

Dr. Martens 1490 vegan leather ankle boots, €170 at Net A Porter

Outfit four

Oversized leather blazer, €299 at & Other Stories

Khaki panel hoodie, €26 at Topshop

Pleated wrap midi skirt, €45.58 at Warehouse

Pointed boots black/zebra print, €49.99 at H&M

Considered black super soft scarf with recycled polyester, €10 at Topshop

Outfit five

Olivia brown cow print faux fur coat, €89 at Kitri

Belted cotton-linen cardigan, €69 at COS

GANNI printed stretch top, €109 at Net A Porter

Wide-leg trousers, €39.93 at Zara

Kit boots, €436 at Dear Frances

Picture: Jason Lloyd-Evans 

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