Do you ever stumble across an expertly layered street style look that makes you wonder ‘how did she put it together’? Back home in New York, the sidewalks are rife with excellent outfits, concocted not simply by utilising the mix of high-end fashion and high-street fashion that has become commonplace, but by adding seemingly disparate pieces together in order to create wholly unique combinations.

Too often we define the items in our wardrobe by where and when we’ve been taught they should be worn (festive dresses are purely for parties, Oxfords equal office-wear, flats are never fancy, etc.). Swapping things around in both your perspective and your closet will do you wonders and add a dimension of versatility you never realized you had. On the practical side, wearing layers will keep you warm in our arctic-like malls, restaurants and offices, plus offer you more options as the seasons change. Follow these seven steps below so you too can layer like a pro. 

^{Look 1 Pastels plus neutrals nabs my top spot for layering ease, they scream ‘spring is here!’ 
Look 2 Stripes are prime pieces for layering victory, and can bring a preppy polish to a quirky combo.} 

1. Limit the Color Palette
When you first start practicing, choose a few tones to work in your look, allowing you to put together extra layers in corresponding shades, while still maintaining a cohesive head-to-toe ensemble.
 
2. Add a Pop
Adding a pop of colour will keep your ensemble from looking cookie cutter, with a personal, modern flair. Bright accessories, such as a bag or shoes, are a sure fire solution for individuality.
 
3. Blend the Occasion
Assembling key pieces from your most beloved work, weekend and evening looks together, day to night, makes item each feel fresh again.
 
4. Balance the Silhouette
Integrating different shapes and textures into a new outfit can seem daunting, therefore matching lengths and creating only one area of focus will help you stay the course. Always remember to accentuate your waist – most often forget and end up concealing some of their best features.

^{Look 3 Create a fun focal point through negative space, such a the shoulders, back or ankle. Waistcoats are currently having a moment, and keep layers light and flexible. 
Look 4 The dress/pant combo has been gaining steam in recent runways, and is actually quite flattering on many body types. Extra points for balancing a jacket on your shoulders, the most soigné of all layering techniques.}  

5. Double Up
Duplicating items in one look can create varied points of interest, so use trial and error to see which combinations suit your frame. It could be wearing one shirt under another, trying an extra sweater around the waist or sporting both a jacket and a blazer simultaneously.
 
6. Cut Corners
Many garments can do the layering work for you, with built-in slips, scarves, ruffles, tiers, and asymmetry. Mimic their angles and finishes throughout for consistency.
 
7. Be Fearless
Of course, the last rule is that there really are no rules. Experiment and look for inspiration on your favorite blogs, social media accounts and in magazines for reference points when you get stuck or when you’re ready to splurge.
 
 
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