Layering ideas for winter (Part I)

I love winter. Not only because it’s a respite from the sweaty hot months that predominate our country, but also because it’s the best time to experiment with our clothing and style. For me, dressing for cold winter days is all about figuring out how to stay warm and look stylish at the same time. I can make use of almost everything that is available in my wardrobe and have fun with it. It’s also a time I can wear my silks since silks are a bit uncomfortable to wear in the hotter months. Unfortunately, in Goa we do not have extreme temperatures like the Northern parts of India. So our dressing almost remains constant all through the year. However, the evenings can be pretty chilly and we may feel the need for some light layering.

Layering is all about pairing different kinds of clothes together to create one cosy, bundled up, thrown-together look that seems effortless yet very fashionable. In theory, it’s pretty simple – add a cardigan over a tank top, or pair a dress with a blazer. But it can still be hard to make your outfit look stylish and flattering. Layering can either cover up your flaws, or make you look bulky. The idea is to take it to the next level by using some of these tricks.

Short Jackets/ Blazers:

A waist length jacket is a great way to bring in the winters. You can wear it over your western outfits, or even over a saree, anarkali or lehenga. A silk or velvet jacket that is of a contrasting or similar colour to your outfit can keep you warm and look glamorous at the same time. Buttoning or zipping up a jacket that ends on the waist can make you look slimmer. While pairing a crop jacket with a shirt, make sure to keep the length of your shirt just a little longer or quite a bit longer than the jacket. Hip length jackets should be worn with a top that is shorter than the jacket. You can accessorize your jacket by pinning a lovely broach to add that splash of sophistication.

Floor length coats:

A floor length coat can make you look like a diva in no time by adding drama to your outfit. If your purpose of wearing the coat is to keep you warm, make sure that it is made of thick material and has a lining inside. If it is your coat that you want to make a statement with, ensure that it has some detailing, and that the garment you wear underneath is minimalistic, as too much going on everywhere will end up in a fashion disaster. Long coats with a flared hem look very graceful and feminine. Try teaming your coat with a jumpsuit or a same or contrast coloured short fitted dress. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, try teaming it with a lehenga or saree to give it a red carpet appeal. An interesting long coat can make a boring saree look glamorous instantly.

Sweater/ Cardigan:

Sweaters and cardigans can make one look bulky. The trick to wearing a chunky sweater is to team it with a fitted piece of clothing. Pair a loose sweater over a loose top and add skinny jeans, or layer a chunky sweater over a more form fitting long sleeved top for a cool, layered look. If you don’t want your look to be too bulky, simply belt your cardigan. Make a sweater instantly more interesting by layering it over a contrasting shirt, and let the bottom of the shirt sleeves and collar peek out. You can make a cropped sweater warmer by wearing it over a button up shirt. A sweater teamed with Indian wear can still look stylish. Wear it with a saree by replacing the blouse with a much fitted sweater which can be tucked inside the saree petticoat. Or just throw the unbuttoned cardigan over your shoulders like a cape. Try a polo neck sweater with a lehenga or Patiala or dhoti pants. Accessorize it with chunky jewellery.

Hope you liked these layering ideas for your winter wear. Next time we shall explore more ideas on how to layer your winter clothing. In the meantime, you can start experimenting with what’s in your wardrobe. There is no right or wrong when it comes to layering, as what may seem absurd to some, may become trends for others to follow. So, as long as you team your garments and align them with each other and carry them off well, there’s no stopping you.

Until next time, stay safe and stay stylish!