How to layer clothes for fall
We're finally in that amazing time of year in Ohio when we go from summer straight to 50, to layering clothes for fall, to freezing rain, back up to 87 and sunny. (Why you people love fall so much I will never understand.) What this calls for is some very strategic layering, if you ask me. (You did ask me, right?) So, how do you layer for fall? And how do you transition summer clothes to fall? Let me count the ways.
How to layer a sweater over a dress
The fastest way to take your summer dresses through fall? Turn 'em into a skirt, obviously. BUT before you start throwing any old sweater over any old dress, you know I'm going to tell you to define a waist. There are a few ways we can do this.
Add a belt, like I did here. This belt is cinched at the smallest part of my waist and then I simply tucked in the front of the sweater to draw the eye toward my smallest part. While you might not be able to see my entire waist, this is a visual trick that will prevent you from looking like a sack of potatoes—which is always my outfit goal.
Opt for a cropped sweater. Even if it's slouchy, a cropped sweater will also help visually define a waist and consequentially make your legs look nice and long.
Layer a longer cardigan over the dress and then belt the whole shebang. This is one of the only ways that long-over-long will work, because we are so literally defining a waist.
When opting for a dress, I definitely recommend a closed-toed shoe in a deeper shade, like these seriously amazing Viscata espadrille wedges. You wouldn't believe how far and wide I've tromped in these guys. Also, they're handmade by Spanish artisans. Also, Viscata is committed to sustainability: every purchase plants a tree in a rural community.
How to layer a denim jacket
The jean jacket: everyone's favorite fall staple. But what are the best ways to layer a denim jacket?
Try a cropped denim jacket over your favorite oversized summer T-shirt. A shorter jacket will help you visually create a waist while you get more mileage out of your summer shirts. Pair it with some layered necklaces and/or a bandana tied around your neck.
Throw a cropped denim jacket over a fall dress or long button down.
Try an oversized denim jacket with high-waisted jeans and a crop top or a tucked-in shirt.
How to layer a cardigan
Cardigans are all fun and games until they get super drapey and swallow you whole. There are a few things I need you to watch out for when it comes to cardis and sweaters:
The drop shoulder. This is a very popular trend right now, but it's not always the best option. A drop shoulder—a top in which the shoulder seem moves from right at the top of the shoulder to a few inches down the arm—ensures that you lose all structure. If you ever feel "frumpy" check for a drop shoulder. This subtle detail can truly make a difference in everything from your posture to the visual (not necessarily actual) width of your shoulders.
The length. Never pair long over long or you risk swimming in your clothes and losing all semblance of shape. Rather, pair a long cardigan with a cropped or tucked-in top or try a longer top under a cropped sweater.
The color. Try to pull out a color from your top and match it to your cardigan. For example, if you're wearing fall florals underneath, chances are there will be a burnt orange or mustard you can pull through in your sweater.