Just because the weather is getting colder doesn’t mean you have to dress like the Abominable Snowman. There are still ways to look fabulous and trendy, while staying warm and comfy. You can accomplish these goals through layering.

Layering sometimes gets a bad rap because women are afraid of looking frumpy or boxy, which can happen if you are not layering the “right” items. If it is done right, layering can look very sleek, rich and sophisticated. Best of all, layering can get quite fun. It gives you the chance to come up with different looks with statement pieces and to reinvent your wardrobe.

If you have a job where you are constantly in and out of your car, if you are always cold at your desk or if you are usually busy running around, you know firsthand that it can be difficult to find an outfit that not only looks put-together and cute, but most importantly, keeps you warm. Try some of the layering look ideas below. They are fun, chic, fashion-forward, and best of all, warm.

Pair your favorite skinny jeans or slim black pants with a basic black or white blouse. Over the blouse, layer a fun cardigan (maybe one in leopard print, a bright color or accented with sequins).

Belt the cardigan — you can also have fun with this. For instance, if you have a purple cardigan over a white blouse, add a leopard print belt, or try a metallic belt with a basic black cardigan. The belt also adds shape to the blouse and cardigan so you won’t look or feel frumpy. Then over the blouse, cardigan and belt, add a fitted blazer. The blazer adds warmth and polishes off the entire look. Finish your look with a pair of high boots over your jeans or slim black pants. The high boots keep the look streamlined and best of all, they keep your feet nice and warm. Have fun with the look by adding a statement necklace that peeks through the collar of your blouse and keep your earrings simple. This look can take you to the office or out and about around town.

If you are craving a different look for a night out on the town with girlfriends or for a hot date, don’t pack your shorts away quite yet. Instead of the typical skirt or dress, be spontaneous and daring by layering a pair of black or tweed shorts with tights. If the shorts are plain black, textured tights can look chic. If the shorts are tweed or have a print, keep the tights simple in opaque black, maroon or navy. On top, a long-sleeved striped or solid color T-shirt is perfect. Layer your long-sleeved T-shirt with a long cardigan or a fun blazer. Finish off the look with either a chic scarf or with a chunky necklace. This outfit looks great with both high boots and with high-heeled ankle boots. Either way, the overall look is unique and super sexy.

I know a lot of women who “save” items in their closet for special events. Most of the time, these items are only worn once and go to waste. Have fun with what you own and think outside the box when it comes to incorporating your once-in-a-while items into your everyday looks.

Take the faux fur vest for example. This item can easily be dressed up or down in an instance. For a more casual look, start with one of your favorite cozy, fitted sweaters. Pair your fitted sweater with a pair of jeans or leggings. Although this look is cute in itself, bump it up a notch by adding these extra items that will not only make it look cute, but will keep you warm. Over your fitted sweater, layer a collared jean shirt. Try rolling up the sleeves of your sweater over the jean shirt to keep the look consistent. Next, layer your sweater and open, collared jean shirt with a faux fur vest. Finalize the look with a pair of flat riding boots or biker boots. Add in a few layers of necklaces and a chic hobo bag, and voila! The look is fun, relaxed, chic and unexpected.

Fall fashion can be fun, but then again, it can get frustrating when the weather is its “in between” stages. Don’t be afraid to layer your favorite sweaters, collared shirts, vests or blazers. Layering allows us to keep comfortable during the changing weather and the looks are super cute and different. Step out of your usual routine and layer the unexpected.

Lauren blogs about fashion at www.mypinmoneyfahion.com. Email Lauren at lauren@mypinmoneyfashion.com. Tune in at 7:10 a.m. every Monday to Star 105.5 for weekly fashion advice.

Tags: Pin Money

This entry was posted on Friday, November 23rd, 2012 at 2:22 pm and is filed under Pin Money Fashion.
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