Winter Layering Lessons

January 27, 2017 | Filed in: Your Closet

It’s that time of year when you need to pile on everything but the kitchen sink to go outside—only to find yourself red-faced and hastily disrobing once you get to an overheated office, crowded conference room, or after-work drinks spot. The solution, of course, lies in strategic layering. Here, MM super-stylist Pauline demonstrates the tricks of her trade on her colleague (and human Russian nesting doll), Taylor.

Look 1: 100% Bundled

Taylor wears the Foster pant in elderberry, the Lagarde 2.0 shirt in cream, the Ono cardigan, the Abingdon coat, and the cashmere scarf.

Why it works: “This look plays with building neutral tones around one color. Elderberry is a very transitional shade—you can wear it all year round and not worry about feeling out of season—and it works best when paired with a clean palette. The Lagarde shirt and Ono cardigan both layer nicely because they’re long-sleeved and don’t add bulk, and the Abingdon coat and cashmere scarf tie everything together.”

When to wear it: “On a cold winter day. You can remove layers as needed.”

Look 2: 75% Bundled

Taylor wears the Foster pant in elderberry, the Lagarde 2.0 shirt in cream, and the Ono cardigan.

Why it works: “When layering a cardigan over a collared blouse, make sure its neckline is tucked under the collar—the whole outfit will look sharper. I also rolled the sleeves of the cardigan to show the cuff and button details of the shirt underneath, for a more polished effect. Wearing a longer outer layer over a shorter top creates a clean hemline, too.”

When to wear it: “In a chilly office.”

Look 3: 25% Bundled

Taylor wears the Foster pant in elderberry and the Lagarde 2.0 shirt in cream.

Why it works: “This is a modern twist on a classic combination—the color of the pant adds a fresh element. Taylor can button the shirt all the way up (or even tuck it in) for a more formal look, or she can leave the hem loose, roll up the sleeves, and add a statement necklace if she’s feeling more fun and casual.”

When to wear it: “In a warmer office.”

Look 4: 0% Bundled

Taylor wears the Foster pant in elderberry and the Jagger top in black.

Why it works: “Surprise, she was wearing the Jagger top underneath the collared shirt the whole time! It’s slim-fitting enough to wear as an under-layer, and then you can transform into a cocktail look in no time at all—like Superman. The camisole is clearly for evening, but it’s still pretty conservative and doesn’t show a ton of skin. Taylor is a pear shape, and the thin straps accentuate her shoulders, which balances out her proportions.”

When to wear it: “A post-work cocktail party or dinner.”