When you think about getting dressed for fall and winter, you probably think of all things chunky and cozy. Sumptuous textures, deep colors and just getting wrapped up in warmth. But getting wrapped up in warmth doesn’t mean you’re only wearing a super heavy sweater. Or a big wool coat. It means layers – which I think is the best strategy to dress for cold weather.
Why do I prefer layers? For a few reasons:
Layers trap warmth between them: So, you’ll actually be warmer in two mid-weight things layered than one heavyweight item.
Layers are versatile: Take a t-shirt, for example. In warm weather, it’s your top – but in cooler weather, it’s an underlayer. And the same goes for a light sweater or a white button-down shirt. You’ll get more mileage out of your wardrobe if you dress in layers than having pieces that only work in super cold (or super warm) weather.
You can de-layer: As the day gets warmer (or you go back and forth from outside to inside), you can shed a layer as needed. So you’re not sweltering on your Target run because all you wore was a heavy lambswool sweater.
And there’s one layer that I think is totally underrated. And it’s also one I see missing in many of my clients’ closets.
It’s a vest.
I love a vest for its pure usefulness and versatility. It’s the third piece you grab when a jacket feels like too much (but you still want something over your outfit). It’s ideal to toss in the back seat for when your kids’ afternoon games go past sunset. And it’s perfect at the beginning of fall, all the way through winter and right into early spring. Here are 3 reasons why I’m always recommending vests to clients.
NOTE: If you’re reading this in spring (instead of fall), the same principles apply. Because versatile layers make as much sense when the weather is warming up as when it’s cooling off.
IT’S AN IDEAL OUTER LAYER
When the weather is more fall than winter. Or you live somewhere temperate. Or you’re in and out of the house running errands. Or when a winter coat feels like too much. A vest is the perfect choice.
You know what I mean, right? When you’re in the mall holiday shopping with your coat on (and you’re sweating), you could have worn a vest. Or when you go to the farmer’s market and it’s cold, but sunny (and your jacket just gets in the way), you could have worn a vest. Or you’re walking with your friend and you don’t want to wear a regular coat over your workout gear (but you still need a layer), you could have worn a vest.
A vest is less constricting, but it still keeps your core warm. So, it’s a great layer to get you through the cold weather. Read this for other layering tips to take you from now and right into spring.
VEST STYLE TIP: When I’m talking about vests, I don’t just mean a quilted nylon vest. There are tons of options. If you’re not into quilted (but still want sporty and casual), you can go with a fleece or sherpa vest. If you want something a little more fashion-y, faux leather vests are trending right now. If you love texture, a faux fur vest is a fun alternative (click to see an ivory monochromatic fur vest look, along with other white-on-white outfits for winter). And a tailored vest is an unexpected piece that’s more wearable than you may think.
Yes, you can always wear a nylon vest. But how about faux fur for some casual glam?
IT’S AN IDEAL IN BETWEEN LAYER
When you want a more versatile wardrobe. When you don’t want to buy a coat that you’ll only wear 6 weeks of the year. When you’d rather mix and match your clothes instead of having some ‘one hit wonders’. A vest can fill the wardrobe gap you didn’t know you had.
Here’s the deal – you can wear your vest as a layer over your top, but under your coat. It traps heat better than just a coat would. So, it turns your midweight coat into a heavyweight one. And then you don’t have to have one coat for when it’s cold - and another coat for when it’s freezing. (I often end up keeping my vest on when I’m inside. Because it doesn’t feel like I’m wearing my coat inside, it’s just another layer in my outfit.)
VEST STYLE TIP: You can go two ways with a quilted vest. You can buy one that has some shape and isn’t super puffy, but still provides warmth. Or you can go with the Michelin Man look. I prefer the former – not just because I don’t like looking like a giant marshmallow, but because a thinner vest is more versatile.
Why buy another piece of outerwear when you can layer two that you already have? Layer a vest under your jacket for added warmth.
IT’S THE IDEAL “I DON’T KNOW WHAT JACKET TO WEAR” LAYER
Fashion trends come and go – but one of the trends that’s been around for a while is big sleeves. They’re called poet sleeves or bishop sleeves (among other things). But one challenge is that you can’t get these sleeves into the arms of your favorite wool coat. And that’s when a vest comes in handy. Whether your sleeves are too big, or your coat sleeve is too narrow, a vest can rescue you from being cold in your favorite shirt or sweater.
VEST STYLE TIP: You may think I’m crazy, but I’ll sometimes layer a vest over a light jacket (it’s actually a trend to wear a quilted vest over a jacket or blazer). And I once created a fun look for a client with a faux fur vest over her denim jacket.
Cropped vests are trending right now (and long vests are, too!). And they’re a totally unexpected layer over a dress.
Do you already have a vest that you can wear more often? Or do you need to add one to your fall/winter wardrobe? Comment to let me know!
And if you’re not sure what you need in your wardrobe, I’m here to help. We can define your style. We’ll figure out what is (and isn’t) working in your closet. We can shop to fill the gaps. And then I’ll create outfits that you love.
Click here to read about the framework I’ve used with hundreds of clients. And click here to set up a free consultation to talk about getting you the style you deserve. I’m already booked into the beginning of next year, but I’d love to add you to my spring new client waitlist.
Top outfit: Via Spiga vest, Veronica Beard sweater & jeans, Coach booties, Mischa Lampert hat, Madewell gloves
Middle outfit: Joules vest, Good American shirt jacket, Ugg leggings, Sorel boots, Rag & Bone cap
Bottom outfit: Vero Moda vest, Caslon sweater dress, Blondo booties, Burberry scarf, Warby Parker glasses