Learning how to layer is the ultimate style tip you can use to transform ordinary casual outfits into Pinterest-worthy posts that will be the envy of everyone. When you layer a universal styling hero like a trench coat, jacket, or vest over casual clothes you create winter outfits that are cozy and stylish. Every fashionable woman I know has this winter styling strategy down. Master it and you can even transform a sloppy sweatsuit into a cool street-style look with just one luxe layer. Most importantly, start with a monochromatic base like a women’s matching sweatsuit, then layer any of these styling staples to complete the look. Continue scrolling for a 2023 list of links to my top 10 favorite layering pieces. They are all available and in stock now.
1. Bomber Jackets
We have officially made a street-style staple out of a pilot’s puffer. There have been many variations over the years, but my favorite is still a nylon arm green style with a zipper. I’ve had this one for years but recently found this roundup at Nordstrom for under $65! Here’s one like mine with an orange lining.
Under $65 At Nordstrom Now
2. Denim Jacket
A denim jacket works for any generation and adds a casual vibe to any outfit. Premium denim, like this style from Fidelity, looks great over a sexy slip-dress or sweatpants.
A denim jean jacket is one of 9 key pieces in my recently updated Ageless Spring Capsule Wardrobe and 2023 Simple Summer Custom Capsule Wardrobe, but I wear mine in the winter over my sweatsuit with white GAP logo.
Oversized
In the winter I gravitate towards an oversized jean jacket, or I size up so that I can fit a hoodie or a thin sweater under it. This one, with silver stars, from my Festive Fits Capsule wardrobe is so soft and easy to layer.
3. Trench Coat
I just included a classic trench coat in my carry-on capsule wardrobe but it would work with almost any other capsule I’ve created. See all the benefits and the best place to buy a beautiful Burberry trench HERE.
Khaki is the most versatile color all year, but I rotate a black trench into my mix, especially in the winter.
London Fog Look For Less
Longer Trench Coats From Nordstrom
A longer trench coat is easier to dress up than a short one.
3 Ways to Tie a Trench
4. Matchy Matchy
Vuori is my most loved athleisure brand. I haven’t found another performance brand that compares to Vuori in comfort and style. My recent winter roundup includes a few mini capsule wardrobes I created with matching pieces in their famous performance fabric including this darling quilted bomber.
Shopping Tip- You can find Vuori at Nordstrom but the best selection is on their website. Once you find a color you love in their performance joggers use the “search” feature on Vuori’s website to find more pieces to match.
5. Puffers
Just like us, puffers come in all shapes and sizes. This winter there is one for every outfit. This sleek style from The Nordstrom 6 Dec Drop works well for everyone. It also looks a lot like Moncler.
The Look for Less From Target
This season we are seeing lots of cropped silhouettes. Try this trend. It’s available everywhere now!
6. Vests
This might be my favorite layering category. If you love to play with proportion and show off your sleeves, vests are the best.
Amazon Under $50
7. Biker Jacket
This wardrobe staple seems to look better the older it is. I’ve had mine from All Saints for years. If you opt for an All Saints jacket, size up. I’m normally a 0/2 and I have a size 4.
A leather jacket is also one of the best luxe layers.
Favorites From All Saints
Best Value
This style from Bernardo runs true to size and is on Sale at Nordstrom now. Size xs-xxl fully stocked.
Outfit Inspiration from Instagram
8. Cozy Cardigan
This layering piece has made its way into more capsule wardrobes than any other item. A quality cardigan is one of Four Pieces You Should Never Toss. A V-neck cardigan is one of my personal favorite closet essentials. An oversized style can be worn so many different ways and looks good on everyone.
My Most Recommended Cashmere Cardigan
Vince runs big so if you are between sizes you can size down.
Printed Cardigans
You can build an entire capsule wardrobe around the color story in a fun print cardigan. Burberry is the best print, but Farm Rio takes up the most real estate in my closet right now.
New From Farm Rio
9. Utility Jacket
A cargo or utility jacket is a key player in my cozy capsule wardrobe. Including a utility jacket, this capsule checklist only has 9 items on it, but they make 65 outfits.
Utility jackets are great all year too. This May I modified my 2022 Cozy Capsule for warmer weather. Watch this styling session to see how I used these $59 utility jackets again.
10. Wool Coat
This grey coat from our Nordstrom 6 November drop is on sale for under $150. A colorful wool coat was a key piece in my 2022 Holiday Capsule Wardrobe. Some of my favorite quality and affordable winter coats from Nordstrom are made by Avec Les Filles and Sam Edelman.
Shop My Looks from Instagram
Avec Les Filles Coats
