The Art of Layering

This week in the journal resident writer Jenny Garcia gives us her styling tips on layering up for the season ahead.

Written by Jenny Garcia

Always a popular topic of conversation as one season fades giving way to the next, as daily temperatures and conditions become a guessing game that rarely has any winners. Layering can seem like an unobtainable art form, but it need not be overly complicated, especially when Maze have already curated an interchangeable collection of wearable pieces from some of the best brands around. 

The fashion gods are also on our side with this one. A key player for several years now is the tank top, aka tabard, aka knitted vest, a silhouette not limited to knitwear. All things sleeveless are very much de rigueur, including the humble gilet. Previously known and appreciated within ‘functional’ clothing circles only, now adored and adorned by the fashion pack at large.

To follow are some suggestions on how to style several of these little sleeveless heroes.

If you fancy a bit of fun, with a side of serious - YMC Reversible Jackie Gilet, Bobo Choses Pleated Cord Trousers, Lolly’s Laundry Davenport Blouse and the Novesta Marathon Trainer in Beige.

When only neutral will do - The Bellerose Daren Tabard in Grey, Indi & Cold Boiler Suit and the Vilma Demitasse Chelsea Boots. 

For a dopamine inducing hit of colour marrying the L.F. Markey Flint Waistcoat and the Shirt Dress in Lichi from Indi & Cold.

Achieve considered simplicity with good basics - Bellerose Graff Shirt, Sessun Seakey in Fleur de Sel Jeans, Bellerose Daren Tabard in Neutral and the classic Novesta Star Dribble in Navy.

Moving onwards to layers with sleeves, and the often overlooked cardigan. It too has had a fashion resurgence, now a dependable companion of the layering pro.  Selected Femme’s Lulu (below) makes a for a bold colour statement worn over Sidelines Betty patchwork.

For a deliciously feminine slant, with a side of preppy, try YMC’s Ramona in Pink paired with Selected Femme Merle Skirt, some ankle socks, and the Camille Loafers from Selected Femme. 

As the cold weather kicks in, layering a cosy coat becomes essential, not only to stay warm but also to achieve the ultimate in sartorial perfection. Whilst recently trying on some of the Maze collection, I spied a rather fabulous tweed coat in the men’s department - Cortina Tweed coat from Universal Works. I’m now imagining (and lusting after) said coat, worn over that pretty preppy outfit I described above. A dreamy combo.

Texture is still a key focus for this season, and is one of the key ingredient for layering with success. Mixing your textures adds interest and depth to your outfits. If it all still feels too complicated, pick one garment such as Kate Sheridan’s waxed batwing coat. I like the idea of this layered over YMC’s JoJo Jumpsuit with some Novesta high tops, simply swap for chunky boots on rainy days.

Sticking with the texture theme I wanted to call out, Indi & Cold’s, reversible coat and jacket for their versatility and value. After all, who doesn’t love a 2 in 1!