Monthly Style Prompt: The Art of Layering
Styling moves that'll change the way you think about layered looks
Layering szn has begun and I’m here to tell you that layering doesn’t have to mean piling on five coats and hoping for the best. It’s actually one of the easiest (and sneakiest) ways to make your outfit look intentional and interesting. The trick? It’s less about how many layers, and more about the right kinds of layers… aka the ones that add shape, contrast, texture, or just that “I know what I’m doing” energy.
I’ve pulled together seven of my favourite layering ideas that feel a little different than the usual suspects. Some give off a subtle layered flair while others come across as more of a statement. But the key theme is that they’re all wearable, and don’t require you to buy anything new.
As a reminder, styling > shopping, and every month I share a styling prompt to encourage you to get introspective and play with your wardrobe. If it wasn’t already obvious, this month’s theme is layering.
The first three looks this month will be available for all subscribers, with the remaining four outfits accessible for paid subscribers only.
Each outfit will be centred around a different concept, and peppered with my usual styling notes which you can apply to outfits during the daily ritual of getting dressed.
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#1 | The Inner Frame
Layering with collars, necklines, and base layers to create visual depth around the face.
This is one of the most quietly powerful layering techniques; adding structure and softness right where the eye naturally lands first. Perhaps the easiest way to approach this is with a white shirt collar under a knit sweater. Alternatively, you could try a fine turtleneck under a V-neck dress. It frames your face, draws the eye upward, and makes the whole outfit feel more intentional. It’s especially useful when you want to feel a little more “done,” but don’t want to wear bold accessories. A silk blouse with a slightly exaggerated collar or a mock-neck tee can do all the work for you. Ideal for transitional weather too as it adds interest without adding bulk. I’ve added additional nuance to this layering look by wearing the shirt untucked so that the hem also peeks out a little too.
#2 | The Tonal Stack
Layering similar tones across different pieces to build cohesion with variation.
There’s something incredibly soothing about dressing in variations of one color. A taupe knit over a beige shirt, paired with cream trousers and ivory loafers reads as extremely elegant. An outfit that doesn’t scream for attention, but draws the eye in because the layering is so nuanced. Tonal layering works because it gives you depth and cohesion at once. The trick is to play with texture. Try pairing wool with thick cottons, or lush satins with suede, as this will stop your look from feeling flat. You all know how much I love a tonal look, as it’s a beautiful yet simple way to dress when you want to feel polished but effortless. Plus, it works with any colour, whether you’re into neutrals or prefer a bolder palette. We can opt for some interesting layering techniques here too, like the knit wrapped around the waist to create some shape.
#3 | The Jewellery Echo
Layering jewellery to mirror or balance what's happening with your clothes.
Think of jewellery as the “cherry on top” to your layers. A stack of delicate gold chains can echo the neckline of a scoop tee, while layered hoops and ear cuffs can balance out a chunky knit. The key to this layering concept is to let jewellery continue the story of your outfit, rather than competing with it. If your outfit is soft and tonal, your jewellery might be delicate and layered. If it’s sharp and structured, maybe go for bold, architectural shapes. Using this approach we create a sense of harmony across our accessories and core pieces of our outfit.
Which side note, if you are thinking of adding a new piece to your jewellery box, two of my favourites - Mejuri and Linjer - are both running sales ahead of Mother’s Day.