5 Easy Layering Tips for Busy People

Who says you’re limited to one sweater per look? Wear a buttoned slim-fit cardigan in place of a blouse (currently a huge trend in its own right) and toss a bulkier one on top. Think of it as a replacement for your denim or moto jacket, only way cozier. Add jeans and boots et voilá—you’re expertly layered and out the door in five.

Get the look: Black lace cami ($148); cropped white sweater ($59); chunky cable-knit cardigan ($148)

Layering isn’t solely about clothing. In fact, some of the trendiest ways to layer right now are with accessories. Our advice? Choose three necklaces of different lengths that go together nicely and keep them at the ready for mornings when you want to quickly jazz up a simple outfit. We love these three from Roberto Coin. Each one is made with 18k white gold, diamond details and a tiny ruby, which is the designer’s signature. The ruby represents a message of good wishes to whoever is wearing it.

Get the look: Horseshoe Pendant with Diamonds in 18k White Gold ($980); Love Letter L Pendant with Diamonds in 18k White Gold ($580); Necklace with 15 Diamond Stations in 18k White Gold ($3,000)

Start considering turtlenecks an automatic base for any outfit and you’ll have a built-in layer every time. They work well to warm up a variety of classic looks: Wear one under a sleeveless midi, a button-up or even a cardigan. It’s a lightweight way to accommodate seasonality and add interest to your ensemble.

Get the look: Black turtleneck ($28); green button-up shirt ($35); plaid blazer ($168); belted pencil skirt ($98)

Similarly, an oversize sweater can mask anything that feels out of season up top, while sturdy boots are a warm choice on the bottom. Adding these two elements to a dress or skirt is a nice way to extend the life of your favorite frocks.

Get the look: Oversize turtleneck sweater ($128); red lace midi dress ($390); tall brown leather boots ($375)

Putting a belt on top of a look where you wouldn’t expect it—like over a blazer or a long cardigan—is a truly easy and sophisticated way to add a final layer. While you definitely shouldn’t shy away from volume when it comes to layering (see tip four), sometimes you want to remind people (and yourself) that you do have a waist. Make sure the belt sits at your narrowest point to lock in the look in a flattering way.

Get the look: Black belt ($48); camel sweater blazer ($178); cream straight-leg pants ($285); black turtleneck ($28)