Three basics you should know to successfully create a layered look.
① Layer them in the order of thin → loose.
To successfully create a layered look, it's important to create contrast in the silhouettes of the items. Choose a slim-fitting inner layer for a neat look, and for the layered items, aim for a slightly looser fit that doesn't feel restrictive. This will prevent the layered look from becoming too bulky and result in a well-balanced outfit.
② Limit the number of colors to three or less.
When adding accents to your outfit with layering, the key is to keep the color scheme minimal. Limiting the number of colors avoids a cluttered look and creates a sophisticated style. For those who prefer simple styles, coordinating with one tone or gradient colors is also recommended.
③ Create contrast by changing the materials.
Layering items with similar textures can often make you look bulky or give you a frumpy appearance. Try combining materials with different textures to create contrast in your outfit. For example, pair a flowy blouse under a natural-textured knit, or combine a crisp shirt with a casual sweatshirt. Simply mixing different materials will instantly give you a more sophisticated look.
Winter Layering Styling Tips (by Layering Method)
Layered look with a peek of the hem
Subtle glimpses of delicate materials add a touch of sophistication to adult casual style.
This boyish look features a brown knit pullover that resembles a sweatshirt paired with wide-leg jeans. A sheer lace blouse is layered underneath the top to subtly add a touch of femininity. The light materials create a relaxed feel, resulting in a stylish look that is just the right amount of glamorous despite the dark tones.
- Items to wear
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
A blue gradient with a touch of white creates a striking contrast.
This gradient outfit features a light blue knit sweater that stands out against the winter air, paired with blue corduroy pants. A white t-shirt is worn underneath, peeking out slightly from the hem, adding an accent to the waistline. The use of white prevents the color scheme from becoming monotonous, creating a well-balanced look. White sneakers complete the outfit, resulting in a clean and sophisticated casual style.
- Items to wear
ニット：RIBUNT IN FUTORY Washable Knit Top with a Stylish Panel Design¥ 4,620 (tax included)Click here for product details
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Layered sleeves
A fashionable casual style with added sophistication thanks to the pleats at the cuffs.
This adult casual look features a cardigan made of nuanced jacquard knit material paired with off-white wide-leg pants. A feminine pleated cut-and-sew top is layered underneath, peeking out from the sleeves. This adds a delicate accent to the relaxed outfit, giving it a more sophisticated feel. When wearing a statement top, it's a good idea to focus on cohesive layering with items in similar colors.
- Items to wear
cardigan:MEDE19F Mohair Blend Double Jacquard Cardigan¥ 6,589 (tax included)Click here for product details
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Let the frills peek out from under your cardigan for an elegant look.
This classic outfit features a compact-length cardigan paired with a pleated skirt. A blouse with a frilly design is layered underneath to enhance the elegant mood. The layering creates a contrasting look that makes the whole outfit appear more refined, and with the addition of some stylish accessories, it's perfect for a casual outing.
- Items to wear
cardigan:IEDIT Tile Waffle Knit Metal Button Cardigan¥ 4,950 (tax included)Click here for product details- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Layered collar
A preppy style with a white collar peeking out from under a crew neck.
This outfit features a striking red corduroy top paired with wide-leg checked pants, creating a seasonal look. Layering a white shirt underneath and letting it peek out from the collar elevates the smart casual style to an even more refined level. A small leather-look shoulder bag and loafers complete the look, ensuring a polished feel.
- Items to wear
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
A white turtleneck stands out against the dark tones, creating a sense of lightness.
A relaxed winter outfit featuring a sweatshirt and wide-leg pants. The white turtleneck adds a pop of color to the dark tones, brightening the face. Blue sneakers and a bag provide a refreshing accent. The result is a simple yet sophisticated adult casual look that is both relaxed and clean.
- Items to wear
- トップス：THREE FIFTY STANDARD Soft Silk Blend Cut-and-Sew Turtleneck Collection¥ 3,960 (tax included)Click here for product details
- パンツ：THREE FIFTY STANDARD Tapered Pants with Tucks (Black)¥ 8,250 (tax included)Click here for product details
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
One-piece dress x bottoms
Give an outdoor dress a fresh look with light brown pants.
This outfit features a bright navy outdoor dress that gives a sharp impression, paired with light brown pants for a coordinated look. Since the dress is long, slim-fitting pants create a well-balanced silhouette. Simple, low-profile sneakers complete the look for a clean finish. The result is a relaxed yet sophisticated casual style perfect for a grown-up's day off.
- Items to wear
パンツ：Sunny Clouds Women's Extra-Loose Brushed Chinos (Brown)¥ 5,060 (tax included)Click here for product details- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
A black long dress layered with yellow creates a vibrant look.
A classic black dress for mature women is a versatile item that can completely change its impression depending on how you layer it. Layering a bright yellow camisole dress with a turtleneck creates a fashionable and vibrant color combination. The lace material at the hem adds depth to the outfit, giving it a more sophisticated feel. Even if you coordinate the handbag and boots in black, it won't look heavy, resulting in a refined outfit.
- Items to wear
- ワンピース：mensha! Vintage-like tulle lace and gauze camisole dress collection¥ 5,500 (tax included)Click here for product details
- トップス：mensha! A collection of comfortable gauze-knit turtleneck tops.¥ 3,410 (tax included)Click here for product details
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
A tunic dress paired with sweatpants creates a relaxed look.
This relaxed outfit features a sophisticated tunic dress with a muted check pattern paired with gray sweatpants. While tunic dresses are often paired with slim-fitting pants, choosing looser pants creates a trendy balance. The sneakers have a sleek, minimalist design, giving the look a light and breezy feel.
- Items to wear
- ワンピース：Sunny Clouds Trick Check Apron Dress Collection (Women's)¥ 5,390 (tax included)Click here for product details
パンツ：Sunny Clouds feat. mii Vintage Sweatpants (Women's)¥ 6,490 (tax included)Click here for product details- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
The perfect layered look for winter staples: knitwear
A brightly colored knit sweater can be styled with a white t-shirt for a relaxed look.
A vibrant colored knit is a great addition to winter, a time when we tend to gravitate towards darker colors. It looks great worn on its own, but layering it with a white t-shirt adds depth and a more sophisticated look. It also pairs naturally with blue pants, making even a challenging color-on-color combination a polished outfit. Finish the look with sneakers for a light and casual adult style.
- Items to wear
ニット：RIBUNT IN FUCK - Soft and gentle yak blend washable knit top (Red)¥ 6,490 (tax included)Click here for product details- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
I added a touch of blue to the gray outfit to create a balanced look.
This gradient outfit features a light gray knit sweater with a warm, brushed texture paired with gray curved pants. A blue t-shirt is layered underneath to add a pop of color. The contrast in colors gives the otherwise plain gray outfit a sharp, sophisticated look. A rounded bag and white boots complete the look, creating a chic, urban casual style.
- Items to wear
- トップス：mensha! A collection of comfortable gauze-knit turtleneck tops.¥ 3,410 (tax included)Click here for product details
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Pair a chunky knit sweater with a white shirt for a polished look.
A loosely knitted yellow sweater is layered with a white shirt for a polished look. Even a relaxed top can be instantly transformed into a more formal outfit by adding a shirt. A black flared skirt completes the look for a calm and sophisticated impression. White socks and black loafers add a touch of elegance to the feet, completing a refined and mature winter outfit.
- Items to wear
- skirt:THREE FIFTY STANDARD: Herringbone skirt in black, created with Miyu Kotani.¥ 8,580 (tax included)Click here for product details
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Points to keep in mind to avoid looking bulky in layers of clothing
① Be careful not to layer too many inner garments.
The more layers you wear as an inner layer, the bulkier it becomes, which can restrict your movement. If you want to stay warm, cleverly incorporate thin yet warm inner layers such as wool or high-performance innerwear. Keep the number of layers to a minimum while maintaining a relaxed feel and ease of movement.
② Avoid layering in a way that completely "hides" the area.
One of the appeals of layering is that it can naturally cover up areas of the body you're self-conscious about. However, if you completely cover your entire body, it tends to give a flat, shapeless impression, as if the clothes are wearing you. By focusing on the areas you conceal, such as covering your waist while keeping your neckline neat, you can create a much more stylish look.
③ Do not layer items of similar length.
When layering, paying attention to contrast is the key to a sophisticated look. If you're layering with a peek of the hem, make sure there's a clear difference in length so that the layering is immediately noticeable, rather than layering items of similar lengths. Clearly defining the boundaries between the clothes creates contrast and a polished impression.
④ Focus on "vertical lines" for a neat and streamlined look.
Winter layered outfits can be tricky because you're constantly wearing layers, making it difficult to achieve a relaxed look. In such cases, creating a "vertical line" somewhere in your outfit is effective. Choosing a cardigan or vest that can be worn open in the front instead of a sweater, or simply draping a long necklace or scarf, can give you a more streamlined appearance.
Create the "just right" layered look with a few simple tricks to achieve a relaxed feel!
For adult women who want to incorporate layering into their winter wardrobe, we've shared tips on how to look stylish and avoid looking bulky. Simply adding layers as an accent can broaden your styling options, create a more sophisticated look, and make fashion even more enjoyable. This season, let's enjoy a higher level of fashion with layering!
