How to Layer Without Looking Bulky
Since I live in California, I don’t get to experience winter that much anymore. But I grew up on the East Coast so I’ll always love winter clothes and layering. That’s why I was excited that I got a chance to visit Boston last month for a friend’s wedding. It gave me an excuse to wear alllll the winter clothes I’ve been hoarding but never got the chance to wear.
How To Layer without Looking Bulky
One of the problems you might come across with layering is that you end up looking really puffy, or bulky, from all the thick winter clothes. It’s definitely a struggle sometimes to look chic while you are trying to stay warm! I’m sharing a few tips below that work for me when I want to layer.
Keep the Layers Light
If you want to wear several layers it’s best to keep them light. This really helps keep everything looking slim. In this look I’m wearing a sweater, blazer, and coat. It all works because the sweater and the blazer aren’t thick and chunky. I could have also added a tank underneath my sweater for an extra layer. The blazer I’m wearing in this photo is the J.Crew Regent blazer. I love it because It’s slim and easy to layer under thicker coats. If you are going for a sportier look, I love these lightweight puffer vests. (They even roll up into a tiny bag!!).
So how do these light layers keep me warm? Check out the next tip!
Choose the Right Fabrics
When the layers are light, it helps if they are winter appropriate fabrics; like cotton, wool, or cashmere. My sweater, blazer, and coat are all a wool blend. So I actually did feel really warm! As I mentioned above, I also like adding a light down-filled puffy vest to my outfits. This vest keeps me really warm and it’s not bulky!
Add a Belt…or Belt Bag
When wearing lots of layers, it helps if you can still define your waist with a belt or, in this case, a belt bag! This coat does come with a tie waist belt which works great. But I thought it would be fun to add this belt bag! It’s a fun statement and it ties in with my croc-embossed boots. It’s also functional because I can carry my cellphone or wallet in the small pouch. I’m not really a fan of belt bags in general but I love this one. It’s actually pretty small and slim so it’s not going to make you look really bulky.
Add Warm Accessories
It’s time to finish off your look with a scarf, hat, and gloves! I’m wearing a wool-blend beret for this look and it does help keep the heat in. I’m not wearing a scarf but it would totally work with this look. Again, I would choose a thinner wool or cashmere scarf so that it doesn’t look too bulky. I’m also not wearing gloves but I probably should be!
Outfit Details:
& Other Stories Coat
& Other Stories Belt Bag c/o
J.Crew Blazer
Banana Republic Sweater (similar)
Beret
Everlane Denim
Miista Boots via Shopbop (love these)
Shop My Layered Winter Outfit
Love this look, and that boston backdrop! I haven’t been in a few years – and I have no excuse – my brother lives a short drive from the city, and my best friend is still there.
Chic on the Cheap
Thanks! I love east coast cities! I would definitely visit Boston again (but preferably in the summer)!
~Jessica