When it comes to fashion, the way you layer your outfit is what will make you stand out from the crowd. This winter, there’ll be a lot of layering going on as the temperature keeps dropping. Layering will not only keep you warm but it will also make you look stylish, so long as you know how to do it right.

The trick behind layering your clothes like a fashion pro is knowing what type of clothes to place one over the other. Here is a breakdown of how you can layer this winter. With this guide, there’s no way you can go wrong.

Start off with a piece  that’s fitting and lightweight

Layering starts from the inside out. One of the major fears of ladies when it comes to layering is looking bulky under all those clothes.  So if you see yourself looking bulky after layering, then the problem is from the first layer of clothing you have on.

To remedy this problem, start with a top that stays close to your body. That way whatever clothing you place over it will not make you look bulky. For example, your figure will show more if you wear sweater over a fitting blouse.

Let the first layer be a neutral colour then let the bright colours come afterwards

The colours you choose are very important. A rule of thumb is to make the first layer a neutral colour. When layering there’s a hierarchy of the colours you have to follow. White, beige and light blue are good colours to start with. The next layers can come in bright or dark colours like a navy blue jacket or a black sweater making your outfit more balanced.

For example a dark brown jacket over a beige blouse finished off with ruby-coloured earrings or necklace makes an amazing piece. The colours complement each other.

Mix in the different fabrics

Layering clothing items with the same kind of texture will make your outfit look heavy, monotonous and a bit overpowering.

Getting creative with the way you mix in different items will make your outfit more proportional. For example this winter you can wear a classic cotton collared shirt with a wooly cardigan over a pair of jeans. This way you have mixed cotton, wool and denim, thus creating a variety of textures on your outfit.

Vary the length of your outfits

Layering is all about maintaining the balance and keeping it stylish all through. The length of the clothes on each layer could change your whole look. But you need to keep in mind that in this case proportion is key.

How this works is to let the shorter items balance out the longer items. For example, a long coat over a short skirt will look flattering yet balanced, but a short jacket over a short skirt will make the outfit look out-of-place.

Following these layering tips will keep you looking stylish and toasty this winter.

How do you like to layer? Sound off in the comments section please.