SUNDAY VISION
By Priscilla Butera
The heat wave is more or less gone, it was almost impossible to find the perfect clothing during the hot weather. Dressing up for cold weather is much easier. For style and comfort, layered clothing works wonders.
Layering is wearing multiple garments. The beauty with layering is that it is possible to make fast adjustments, based on your activity level (be it work, school, an outing or even a party). The other advantage is that when you get too warm, you can trip off the layers.
Breaking it downThe inner layer: Also called the base layer, is the first layer against your skin. This layer wicks moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and warm. Inner layer materials are made of silk and polyester.
The middle layer: The second layer is called the insulating or middle layer, which protects you from the cold. It should be a loose-fit, not as tight as the first layer, but not baggy either.
The third layer: The outer or shell layer should be thick and heavy, because it shields you from the wind and rain.
Simply Subtract
So, do not leave your scarf or jacket at home on a wet morning, because you are worried about a sunny afternoon.
Layering has the peeling-off and putting-on advantage, when you are feeling hot or cold, respectively. Simply subtract or add layers as needed.
It is Unisex
Layered clothing is unisex, so anyone can rock the look.
For women: Examples include a maxi dress with a jacket and a scarf; a long sleeved shirt, a sleeveless sweater and pants. You can wear a skirt with body stockings and a blouse with an open sweater over it.
For men: A cotton T-shirt with a long sleeved leather jacket and denim jeans. You can also wear a T-shirt with a short sleeved sweater, a scarf and pants.
Look Dashing
Colour blocking works best for layered clothing because block colours emphasise the different layers. A pink knee-length coat over a mini-yellow polka-dotted dress with body stockings would look great.
A man will look dashing in a white, short sleeved T-shirt, with a sky-blue sleeveless sweater and cool black denim jeans. Be sure not to wear too many layers or use too many colours. Your outfit should be attractive, not alarming.
Accessorising
While you rock the layered look, avoid chunky jewellery and bulky accessories. Stud earrings, plain necklaces and light scarves are ideal.
