Fashion

These 8 Unexpected Layering Pieces Will Breathe New Life Into Your Winter Style

Good layering skills are crucial for all humans. Not only are they the key to keeping warm without investing in one of those sartorially bankrupt bubble coats, but layering is also the best method by which to ensure that you never again find yourself in one of those situations where you're out somewhere and the heat is cranking and the only thing you have on underneath your huge sweater is a bra. That, frankly, is my personal idea of hell.

Although layers are the secret to life, there are only so many times one can go for a straight-up tank top, shirt, sweater, coat combination before itching to switch it up a little. Maybe try something a little more… interesting? One or all of these eight pieces would make the perfect addition to any winter wardrobe crying out for a little more action before springtime rolls in.

by Rachel Krause

The Denim Jacket

This spring favorite makes for a great transitional piece: it’s substantial enough to help deflect cold weather, but not so heavy as to add undesirable bulk when worn beneath thicker outerwear.

Pop Boutique Vintage Denim Jacket, $74.08, asos.com

The Swingy Open Cardigan

Cardigans are a classic layering piece, but this updated version is unique thanks to its open front and breezy cutouts around the waist.

Silence + Noise Freestyle Cardigan, $59, urbanoutfitters.com

The Split-Side Tank

Let the graphic abstract print and split side vents peek out from beneath a chunky sweater with a slightly higher hem.

Vince Printed Double-Layer Silk Tank, $78, saksfifthavenue.com

The High-Low Cardigan

The longer, piped-seamed back on this slouchy cropped-front cardigan looks cool under a hip-length jacket or coat.

Rag & Bone Noelle Cardigan, $145, lagarconne.com

The Lace Slip

If you’re starting to find your standby skirt collection more and more tedious, a lace slip peeking out from underneath will make what’s old seem new again… at least for a little while.

Oh My Love Cami Mini Slip Dress, $40.74, asos.com

The Lightweight Parka

A cotton parka is perfect on its own on warmer days, but it’s also great with the hood exposed from beneath a peacoat or trench when the weather turns brutal (or wet).

Topshop ‘Wilbert’ Lightweight Parka, $120, nordstrom.com

The Thigh Highs

Double up on the legwear warmth factor by pulling on thick thigh high socks over your plain black tights.

Elizabeth Thigh High Socks, $22, nastygal.com

The Perforated Sweater

Think of it less like a sweater with holes (which is what it is, in essence) and more like a sweater with windows to what’s underneath. A tank or blouse in a coordinating color or eye-catching print makes everything just a little more interesting.

Cashmere Sweater, $59.95, hm.com

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