Strategic layering: The key to warm winter dressing

Can I really get through winter with just one coat?

Model Paloma Elsesser demonstrates strategic layering.Credit: GC Images

In winter, forget traditional fashion wisdom and accept that more is more. Until ski suits become acceptable office attire, a minimalist approach to dressing won’t keep you warm when arctic winds confront you on your commute to work. Rather than accept the challenge of winter dressing, most people simply give up, reach for the nearest black puffer jacket and place their bodies into style hibernation until the first sign of spring. Quitters.

A bulky coat or jumper on its own is never the answer.

You might be warm, but you won’t look hot. While other people focus on preparing their bodies for summer, showcase your winter silhouette with strategic layering. A crisp business shirt, fitted jumper and sporty windbreaker keep the elements at bay without adding unnecessary bulk to your figure. The fit is important here: body skimming – not body-clinging – and never baggy.

Careful layering has a dynamic result, taking the eye on a journey around an outfit without settling for too long in one area. Like Miu Miu designer Miuccia Prada, take inspiration from school uniforms where contrasting colours unite for a style A+. Stop short at wearing a school tie – you don’t want to look like an actual student – and elevate your accessories with a leather tote or messenger bag in place of a backpack.

If you’re wearing a longer skirt, you might be able to tolerate the wind against your calves; if it’s just too icy, though, turn to tights. Meanwhile, underlining your outfit with a cool socks-and-stilettos combo will signal that ultimate layering mastery has been reached.

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