Winter is coming. It’s tricky to know how to layer clothes for winter, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s all about combining pieces that look good and keep you cozy.
Layering the outfit doesn’t mean just throwing a jacket over, it’s about combining pieces that look good and keep you cozy.
In this guide, I’ll share outfit ideas and tips to help you master layering clothes for winter. You will know how to look great in cold weather after reading this, I promise.
Before we go into the actual tips here are some of the examples of layering pieces you can use to create a winter outfit.
How to layer outfits – layering pieces (examples)
- Base Layers: thermal tops, seamless bodysuits, lightweight turtlenecks, silk camisoles or tank tops
- Middle Layers: chunky knit sweaters, cashmere pullovers, cardigans, fleece jackets or pullovers, puffer vests, hoodies, flannel or plaid shirts, shackets, turtleneck sweaters
- Outer Layers: wool coats, trench coats, parkas, puffer jackets, shearling or teddy coats, bomber jackets, capes, or ponchos
- Accessories: scarves, beanies, berets, felt or wool hats, leather gloves, knit mittens, wool or fleece socks, leg warmers, belts, totes or crossbody bags, sunglasses
- Layer-Friendly Bottoms: skinny jeans, straight-leg or wide-leg jeans, faux leather leggings, corduroy pants, wool trousers, maxi or midi skirts, pleated skirts, overalls
- Footwear: knee-high boots, ankle boots, combat boots, snow boots, hiking boots, sneakers, clogs or mules
How To Layer Clothes For Winter
1. Start with a base
Everything starts from the base, so outfits are.
When you want to feel cozy and warm in cold winter weather, it’s a must to start the clever way.
You need a fresh start. Something lightweight (bodysuit, turtleneck) that doesn’t add extra volume to your outfit but still helps you to feel warmer.
2. Add a middle layer
Use statement pieces like a chunky sweater, fleece vest, or something to get even warmer.
This is how to dress in winter – make yourself feel warm but also look chic and cozy.
You are gonna see a lot of examples, in this article, so stay tuned.
3. Choose a bottom
As I already mentioned layering is not only about jackets and sweaters. It’s about creating a complete warm winter outfit with layers.
Skinny jeans, warm leggings, pencil, pleated or midi skirts are some of the bottom layer pieces you can use.
Play with proportions but don’t lose the balance of your outfit.
For example, if you decide to wear a chunky sweater and oversized coat for your top, pair them with skinny jeans or leggings.
It’s all about creating visual harmony. You don’t need to look bulky and fat.
4. Time for an outer layer
Your coat or jacket is still the main eye-catching piece in your look.
Add it depending on the events you planned for the day.
For example, a good trench coat is a perfect outerwear for city outings. A warm parka jacket for snowy days and so on.
Pro tip here: you can add a belt to the coat to cinch in your waist for a better body silhouette.
5. Accessorize
A good scarf not only adds warmth but also a pop of personality.
Opt for oversized styles for added layering. Hats, gloves, and ear muffs don’t just keep you toasty—they complete your look.
6. Finish with footwear
You will many layering examples in outfits down below, even for footwear.
For example, when you need extra warmth it’s a good idea to pair tights (or leggings) with leg warmers or high wool socks. They create layers on your outfit and look great.
These are all the practical tips that I could give you to know how to dress for winter. But keep reading for more.
Now, let’s get into the actual winter layering outfit ideas.
1. Tights + socks + fur coat + scarf + hat
Tights are the foundation of the outfit here, and they do more than you might think.
They not only make you feel warm but also give you the chance to wear skirts or dresses in a chic way without freezing.
I am not going to talk about how perfect a fur coat is for winter. It’s warm, cozy, elegant, and expensive looking.
You can pair a scarf with a fur coat without creating a bulk – you are seeing the example here.
2. Two-piece + solid top + tights
Two-piece outfits don’t only look elegant, they are very easy to style.
But the key in a similar outfit is the colors. You need to try to stick to the neutral colors.
This will help you to stay safe while you are adding layers to your look.
Neutral tones like black, gray, and beige are easy to mix. You can add a pop of color to your accessories to liven things up.
This is not a complete look for winter.
You should be layering clothes for winter. So, you can use any outer layer to make a complete, layered winter outfit.
This outfit will fit well for work or a lunch date.
3. Knit sweater + oversized blazer + tights
Wearing an oversized blazer as a blazer dress become very popular these days. I am not a fan of it but I loved this specific outfit when I saw it on Instagram.
It’s perfect for the office or casual meetups.
The best thing about this outfit is the colors for me. I love how this brownish, greyish gold color (I just invented a new color) looks with black.
4. Jeans +knit sweater + leather coat + a scarf
Pair high-waisted jeans with a chunky knit sweater. Tuck the sweater slightly in the front for a more flattering look.
Add a layer jacket for layering and a vintage look.
Don’t forget a red chunky scarf to add a pop to the outfit.
5. Wide leg pants + knit sweater + faux fur coat + a scarf + hat
Pairing wide-leg pants with a fitted knit sweater is a perfect example of balance.
Adding a cropped faux fur coat is a great idea for your warmth and glamour.
I love how this outfit looks.
It’s a great winter brunch outfit, isn’t it?
6. White jeans + UGGs + oversized sweater + fleece coat
Here is another example of casual winter layering outfits in neutral colors.
Pair white jeans with a neutral oversized sweater. Add shearling-lined UGGs and a fleece coat for warmth. Accessorize with a crossbody bag and simple earrings.
You are good to go.
This is a perfect example of how you should use layers to experiment with lengths.
7. Blue jeans + fur coat + cap
I love the idea of pairing white and dark blue pieces together. They look very cozy and stylish.
It’s an easy way to layer the outfit within this color combo.
8. Leather pants + button-down shirt + knit sweater
Leather pants add edge, while a button-down shirt layered with a knit sweater keeps things cozy.
This is perfect for anyone looking for layer clothes outfits that mix textures.
9. Knit sweater + teddy jacket + bucket hat
This combination of cozy knitwear and a trendy teddy jacket is both practical and fashionable.
Generally, I think teddy jackets are great for winter layering. They can make the outfit look too cute and expensive.
A bucket hat adds a playful touch, ideal for those colder, casual days.
10. Wide pants + top + bomber jacket + sweater
Layer a fitted top with a cozy sweater and bomber jacket for structure.
Wide-leg pants in a heavy fabric create a relaxed yet chic vibe, making it a favorite for autumn layering outfit ideas.
However, you can easily change the fitted top to something warmer, like a cashmere sweater.
Wearing an additional sweater over your bomber jacket adds an extra layer to your outfit. It also adds a modern touch to your look.
11. Tights + heels + socks + mini skirt + oversized sweater
Thermal tights, knit socks, and a mini skirt topped with an oversized sweater create a perfect winter chic look.
The most unique thing in this outfit is the heels. It looks very different.
This is the perfect outfit if you are looking for warmth and style.
12. Mini skirt + turtleneck + leather coat
Tucked in a turtleneck in a mini pleated skirt, it looks amazing. Don’t you think so?
Wearing a brown leather coat gives the outfit a vintage vibe while still keeping it modern.
Over-the-knee boots tie it all together, proving you can wear skirts even in winter outfits cold and freezing.
13. Turtleneck + midi dress + blazer
A fitted turtleneck under a midi dress creates a stylish layered look. Add an oversized blazer for warmth and pair it with tights and boots for a polished finish.
But that’s not all.
You can still add some outer layers for extra warmth. A long trench coat, leather jacket, or teddy jacket will be a good option.
14. Wide-leg pants + belt + tunic top + a vest + leather jacket
This layered look combines volume and structure.
A belted pleated pants, a sweater vest, and a leather jacket make this a great example of how to layer outfits without sacrificing style.
Don’t forget accessories to make the outfit look complete.
15. Sweatpants + fur coat
Well, well, well…
If you love spending cold, freezing days in the comfiest outfit, this is the one you should try.
You can mix casual and luxe by pairing cozy sweatpants with a fur coat. I love it.
Add sneakers for a relaxed vibe or ankle boots for an elevated look.
Here is just one caution: don’t overdo things, don’t look too bulky.
This has nothing in common with this image but I love the idea of wearing a leather jacket with sweatpants. I think it looks chic as and stylish as well.
16. Black jeans + oversized sweater + faux leather jacket
Black jeans create a sleek base for an oversized sweater and faux leather jacket. UGGs are what make the outfit look very cozy and stylish.
Accessorize with a scarf to make this a go-to for warm winter outfits and layers of cold weather.
17. Flared jeans + UGGs + buttoned cardigan + wool coat
Flared jeans are very trendy right now. They create an expensive-looking outfit with a long wool coat.
So, if you have both of them in your wardrobe, try them for your next outing.
A buttoned cardigan is a practical mid-layer, that provides insulation without feeling bulky.
18. Cropped pants + teddy sweater + teddy coat
Cropped pants may seem surprising in winter, but pairing them with warm, fuzzy textures makes this outfit work.
You are just gonna need long warm socks and platform boots to first warm your legs and then make the perfect balance of lengths.
19. Black jeans + black sweater + sherpa coat + a scarf + hat
Wearing the same colors (or different shades of them) together means you are wearing a monochromatic outfit.
Wearing both black pants and a top makes your body look longer, so that makes you look taller as well. Did you know that?
If you want to learn more tricks like this to look taller and slimmer this is my article full of tips and tricks that help.
A sherpa coat acts as the perfect outer layer with its plush texture. It delivers warmth and a bit of a rugged edge.
This outfit is an ideal outfit for casual outings on brisk winter days.
20. Leggings + socks + UGGs + sweater + puffer jacket + a scarf
I love the idea of wearing a puffer jacket with leggings. Only this makes the outfit already look chic and stylish.
Plus UGGs with high socks. They make the outfit look so cozy and warm.
This outfit is all about staying cozy and comfy!
Leggings are the perfect flexible base layer, especially when you pair them with warm socks and UGGs to keep your legs and feet toasty.
A sweater adds an extra layer of warmth, and a puffer jacket helps trap in that cozy heat.
To top it all off, a solid scarf adds a personal touch while keeping you snug.
This is all about layering for winter outfit ideas.
You’ll feel great and look stylish in this outfit!
21. Blue jeans +sneakers + pink sweater + pink coat
Wearing bright, cheerful outfits on cold, boring winter days is a great idea. This is when you need to come out of your comfort zone and forget neutrals.
But you need to know what you are doing.
Here is my article where you can find some of the best matching tips for outfits. This is where you will discover how to match coloring without striking the balance.
You will find there that pairing pink and light blue clothes is a great idea.
The pink sweater and pink coat create a tonal layering effect that’s warm and playful. This outfit is great for casual meetups.
22. Pencil skirt + shirt + denim jacket
A pencil skirt in winter? Absolutely!
This specific outfit seems to be for cooler days but I wanted to share how you can use a jeans jacket with a pencil skirt for layering.
You can even wear something over that jean jacket if it’s colder outside.
This outfit is a great example of how to layer outfits for days when you need to blend style and practicality.
23. Button down shirt + mom jeans + plaid coat + loafers
This look combines classic pieces for a timeless winter ensemble.
A button-down shirt adds a polished touch, while mom jeans provide comfort and a retro vibe.
The plaid coat is a standout piece. It offers both warmth and texture.
The great thing about this outfit is it’s a universal look that you can wear everywhere. This is how to dress for winter.
24. Sweater dress + belt + leather trench coat
This outfit is ideal for those who want to stay warm without compromising on elegance.
A sweater dress is cozy and versatile. You need to add the belt that cinches the waist for a more flattering silhouette.
To create a stylish and weather-ready outfit, try pairing your tall boots with thermal tights.
25. Baggy pants + turtleneck + leather jacket + wool scarf
I love how the white scarf pops out of the black outfit.
Did you know that leather jacket is wind-resistant and very durable in winter?
This combination is perfect for casual winter outings. But you can wear it to the office (or more official meetings) if you change the sneakers to something classier.
26. Pleated skirt + high boots + button-down shirt + sweater + a long coat
This layered outfit is perfect for achieving a preppy winter look.
A pleated skirt adds movement and charm. I haven’t mentioned today that it’s a great idea to pair mini skirts with high-knee boots.
A button-down shirt creates a crisp foundation, and the sweater layered on top adds warmth and texture.
A long coat finishes the outfit, offering coverage and a sophisticated touch. It’s a great example of layering clothes for winter in a way that’s both feminine and functional.
This is how to layer clothes for winter. Hope my article helped. Feel free to ask any questions.
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