024: The Art of Layering

And other lessons in how to pile your clothes atop one another

and

Apr 11, 2024

Like the perfect tiered cake, layering is everything. A layered cake offers drama, it offers depth, it offers multiple levels of mouthwatering dessert, what’s not to love? We are keeping the art train going this week (shoutout Sarah!!!) at HQ, let’s chit chat about the art of layers. Because, even our layers have layers.

Lessons in Layering

AB: I know it seems interesting to be talking about layers at a time like spring, but there's never a time like the present. And to be truthful layers are just as important in April as they are in the depths of fall. Layers are the practical bundles of clothes that keep you warm in the colder seasons, but also the fine details of color or jewelry in summer. For example my take on a perfectly layered ensemble for winter is a collared button down under a colorful sweater, paired with an anchoring structural jacket and maybe a necktie or bandana on for that added magic. But, that all sounds a little much in these few months approaching summer. So, let's talk less bulky and more refined. Layering in spring and summer means statement jewelry alongside your classic go-tos, you know that perfect necklace stack. It means head scarfs, sunglasses, and the perfect handbag. It means layering funky colors. As I’ve said before I am an advocate for when you leave the house add one more thing.

CM: Ooooooh, I’m excited!!!!! Like AB up there, I would argue that in *most* four-season climates, layers are the lifeblood of spring and fall dressing. I feel like I’m really waking up in my era of layering. During this 75-So-Hard-I-Want-To-Cry Challenge (which is almost over, hallelujah) I’ve really had to leeeeeean in and find fresh ways to love my clothes, and layering is a pivotal player in that game. I layer earrings and necklaces e-v-e-r-y damn day and sometimes it’s the only difference between bleh and yay when I look in the mirror. For me, spring layering is all about the jackets, the light knits, the t-shirts and the socks. And, I might add, a little contradiction like a mini skirt with tall boots and a sweater. In my book, if you can master layering then you have reached fashion nirvana. A masterful layerer can transform any outfit, in fact it’s one of AB’s many talents that I most envy! She’s SO GOOD at layering.

AB: Thank you CM, you're too good to me! You guys know with the runway review that I am into the layered idea of pants with a dress or skirt which marched down the runway a few times this last season. However, I have been taught a more profound lesson by the late and great Lee McQueen. I have delved into his past shows and have been reignited by his creativity. Though it is not the only thing I discovered, there was a very unique and interesting way he went about the layering in his shows. It made me realize how much I don't play enough with different layered silhouettes! Something that caught my eye is a look of a calf high legging or pant under a structured shirt dress which was to die for. So early 2000’s, but i’m not mad (and maybe Sarah Brandhorst was on the cusp of something with her “worst look”)! Or a sheer longer top layered over a contrasting tailored pant. It's genius I say!

CM: Serendipity!!!!! Today, in the Magasin Substack group chat some chicas were talking about styling peplum tops—if you recall from the very beginning of this newsletter I, too, have an unstyle-able, but absolutely gorgeous, peplum top. AND THEN one of the commenters shared the above photo and it isn’t pants under a dress, but it’s giving like a summery version of the aforementioned uncommon pairs. Also discovered that I saved a very similar look on Pinterest last week. I also have this Leandra Medine Cohen look saved on Pinterest, I love this date night version of dress + pants, and I have two very cute vintage Victoria’s Secret slips to style.

Honorable Mentions

AB: Basics don't have to be boring. My top two layering items are the T-shirt, and the sock. For fall and winter I go for a T-shirt under any sweater for just a small snippet of a layer that ends up taking your look and giving it that extra polish. For spring summer I layer it under a dress or tank top for something more interesting. Heck don't let your best evening wear be reserved for only night. Throw that sexy strapless with a crisp white T and make it a day look. I personally love a graphic T but uniqlo has the best whites. As for socks I suggest bold colors in the spring and neutrals or patterns that peep out of a cropped pant for winter. Uniqlo with another basic sock win and the brand doublesoul for something more fun and personal.

CM: Ironically I seemed to have layered a lot the last few weeks (see outfit receipts for proof). But I’m in 1000% synchronicity with AB, the power of a t-shirt is unmatched. Sometimes going with a graphic tee (even just a black and white option) can add that lil’ bit of flair or interest you’re looking for. I actually desperately need to replace my white tee, I have had the same Gap one for ever and it’s the perfect shirt, truly, she’s just on her last leg. For socks, I really like Swedish Stockings, they have a bombbbbb spring collection and the white socks are on my list as soon as 75 Hard comes to a close.

AB: Man or woman, turtlenecks under everything. It's that easy. For my ladies, here's the perfect one. Men take note from Prada mens runway 2012 that takes layering to its finest.

AB: The unexpected layering pieces that will have your outfits showstopping.

The neck scarf (maybe a classic scarf, maybe a necktie!)
The under appreciated belt
A glove moment
Tights
Sheer items
Vests
Hats

CM: A fave spring layered look for me is the mini dress + blazer combo. I came across this one on IG the other day and it was TOO good not to share. The thing that makes this spring, not summer, is choosing a knit dress and the option to add socks (she isn’t wearing them, but it’s a toasty add-on). You could easily make this summer-friendly with a sleeveless linen mini dress and losing the socks or adding sandals instead. What I really want to call out is that most of these things are already in your closet! Just think outside the box a little and don’t think big, think small and refer to AB’s list above. I am someone who packs away my summer or winter clothes depending on the season, but I’m very careful to leave a few items, like tank tops or mini skirts for example, that I can layer year-round.

Deep Cuts

AB: I am rewatching Sex and the City and another perfectly layered thing is in fact a classic Cosmopolitan cocktail. Carrie is a woman of my own heart. Or every woman's heart?

CM: I am STALKING summer ‘fits. I’m obsessed with the color palette on this carousel!

AB: The perfect example of not yet spring not totally winter looks.

CM: Speaking of layering.

AB: The chunky charm necklaces that are trending right now are so much fun and add a ton of personality to a look. Perfect for layering.

CM: These peplum tie tops have been trending this week and honestly I get it, where do I sign up?? Also lol, more peplum clearly on the rise for spring/summer.

CM: The amount of random screenshots I took this week is embarrassing BUT these capris are my obsession. I need them. Also the socks and heels combo here is so good.

AB: Gigi Hadid for Miu Miu’s latest bag campaign is the best we have seen this year. Paying homage to 1930’s feminist photographer Yevonde, it is giving the artist color palette and strength of a woman sending me into Spring. I feel empowered. Don't you?

Before You Go

AB: And in the words of orphan Annie, you're never fully dressed without a smile. (:

CM: What are you shopping for?? I want to know! But mostly I want to shop.