Secrets of Layering

OK, so maybe they're not secrets...but it has to be admitted that layering, when done right, can be a very special fashion weapon. March is here and, so far, we've experienced a chilling mini-blizzard and (just yesterday) weather so sunny and warm that winter coats were unnecessary. In this very fickle month, it's important to be prepared for anything - and layers can help keep you comfortable at whatever temperature happens to reign.

Fave Layering Basics

• Tank Tops and Camisoles - An absolute must in temperamental weather - these fit smoothly under almost anything and the thin extra layer keeps you just a bit warmer. These are also great for modesty reasons - doubling as a slip, adding additional support and adding a few inches to a neckline that would be otherwise immodest. My sisters and I wear these almost every day.

• Sweaters - OK, so I happen to be a bit obsessed and own more than I can ever wear...but they are just so practical! Perfect for layering under a coat on a blustery day (when the weather warms up, you can toss the coat!), piling over your long-sleeved tees and turtlenecks (neither I or this blog would survive the chill without them!), or being worn as a shirt over a light tank when you want a cozy, stylish look without the bulk.

• Tights and Leggings - I don't know how some people survive in the winter, tromping around in jeans and ankle socks. As soon as the cold front hits I pull out the leggings. They fit perfectly under any pants and are even appropriate under skirts, so long as you've got boots that cover up the ankle. As for tights - a nice dark pair is necessary for wearing with those ballet flats and pumps. Don't go for flimsy fabrics unless the weather is warmer - and please, throw out any of those awful "nude" colored nylons. They are so out. If you want a barelegged look, you'll just have to go barelegged - so put on the black tights or wait until summer. :)

• High Boots - Fortunately, there has been much more variety of styles and sizes available over the past few years (I hope they stay in for a long time!) and it is now fairly easy to find a pair of high boots without a skinny, skyscraper heel. These are a top pick for winter wear - they can slip under boot cut jeans and over any that are more fitted (perfect for tromping through some of that leftover snow!). They go very nicely under almost any long skirt (this, BTW is the best way to stay warm when going out in the winter - the length of the skirt and boots keeps your legs completely protected from any freezing winds) and make sweet, shorter skirts "winter wearables" by covering up the leg that would otherwise be exposed (and cold!). Sometimes these "secret weapons" can keep you cozy enough that you can skip the tights or leggings altogether.

The Accessories Have It!

• It's amazing what a few well-chosen accents can do to warm you up. A favorite of mine are long, fingerless gloves (from Kohl's), which I wear while inside the house, typing away at this blog in my freezing basement :P). I have very poor circulation and these really do the trick without taking away my mobility. 

• Also, scarfs are a simple way to add a little warmth and, when the sun comes out, can be easily tucked into a coat pockets or tied about the waist and out of the way. Sometimes even a lightweight silk scarf is all it takes to do the trick.

• Don't forget your hat! Not only are they super cute and trendy, hats of all types can do wonders in keep your body temperature comfortable, allowing you to dump some of the other unwanted layers.
  

So...as we skip blithely through this ferocious month of March - don't forget to layer up! You'll be glad you did when the sun peeks through the clouds and you're able to dump a few items while still staying modest and oh, so stylish...