The most effective way of keeping the winter chill at bay, dressing in layers does more than simply block out the cold. Done well, layering not only builds warmth, it’s an opportunity to amplify your presence and maximise the value of your investment pieces. Here are all the tips and tricks you need to make the most of your winter layers.

A slip provides a good base for dress and skirt looks. An extra layer of course, adds insulation against the cold but the smoothing effect is great for enhancing the line of outer garments too. Safeguarding against the static effect created by tights and stockings, longer midi-length slips also stop skirts clinging to the legs ensuring you can step out freely with style and confidence.

Soft tailoring styles are easy additions to warm up your favourite work and weekend outfits. Look for styles in stretch jersey fabrics to ensure you can still move easily as you overlay garments. 

Cardigans like the Sandro Jacardi are simple yet effective. In L&F's signature Dry Touch Jersey, the Sandro Jacardi is designed to wear over both dresses and separates. Updated in the seasons core colours, there is a colourway to work with both plains and printed styles. Best of all, Dry Touch Jersey is a wrinkle-resistant fabric, meaning it won’t crease when worn under heavier garments and it’ll carry well in bags as an option when the temperature drops. 

The key to successful layering lies in varying the lengths of the garments you choose. This helps balance out the silhouette and ensures your layers look refined rather than bulky.

Jackets work well over dresses and skirts for exactly this reason. Hip-length jackets are great for breaking up the fullness of the hipline while angled hemlines work to define the space between the waist and hips. Take a look at the hip-length Garcia Jacket and angular Mackenzie Jacket for inspiration.

Play with texture to break up the look and add depth, which ultimately adds to the overall luxurious aesthetic. Soft bamboo jersey looks elegant over the structure of tailored suiting - the fluidity of the Cove Weighted Poncho in Black Bamboo for example, is amplified when worn over of more structured tailored styles.

1. Start simple with good foundations and build warmth from beneath
2. Use layered necklines to make a feature of your layers
3. Choose easy-care, wrinkle resistant fabric for your in-between layers
4. Avoid creating a bulky silhouette by varying the lengths of your layers
5. Play with texture and print to add depth to your layered looks.

Trust your instincts and keep the purpose of your layering front of mind. Layering is just another way to have fun with fashion, and what could be more fun than wearing as many of your favourite clothes as possible?