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Look layering mode femme : gilet fausse fourrure, blazer noir manches évasées, style fashion editor minimaliste, tendance automne hiver 2025.

(EN) THE ART OF LAYERING WITHOUT LOOKING LIKE THAT CHAIR IN YOUR BEDROOM. YOU KNOW THE ONE.

Written by: The Second Edit

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Time to read 3 min

Layering is far more than a practical trick to cope with moody weather. It’s a true style language—a quiet manifesto that lets you express your personality while adapting your outfit to changing temperatures. From Paris runways to street style to the pages of the world’s leading fashion magazines, layering is celebrated for its versatility, visual richness, and ability to reinvent everyday basics.

Outfit Femme Layering
Outfit Femme Layering Polka Dots
Outfit Femme Layering Polka Dots

A Stylish Heritage: From Coco Chanel to Today’s Fashion Editors

Historically, layering was all about practicality. But over time, it has been hijacked—and gloriously reinvented. Gabrielle Chanel disrupted the rules, stacking cardigans, pearls, and tweed jackets. Today, modern icons like Erica Davies and Vogue editors revisit this tradition with creative freedom that inspires us all.

Why Layering Makes So Much Sense Today

Because it allows seamless adaptation: the same base can carry you from the office to brunch to your next getaway. Because it adds visual depth to an otherwise simple outfit. But mostly, because it offers endless self-expression—from refined monochrome minimalism to bold texture mixes.

Runway-Inspired Layering (layer like a pro)

The Fall-Winter 2025 shows confirmed what the streets have whispered for seasons: layering is the ultimate tool for owning your style. Among the standout trends:

  • Sculptural Silhouettes: Maxi cardigans over tube dresses, pleated skirts layered under shearling coats.

  • Texture Contrasts: Satin dresses under oversized knits, flowy slips peeking out from masculine outerwear.

  • Effortless Chic: Rolled-up sleeves, draped cardigans, scarves nonchalantly tied. Casual, but calculated.

  • Skirts Over Pants: Wrap dresses layered over wide-leg trousers—a Copenhagen to London favorite.

  • Monochrome Layering: Mixing textures within one color palette—beige silk, flannel, ivory wool.
  • Athleisure with a Twist: Technical sportswear layered under leather jackets or belted coats.

  • Expressive Accessories: Statement belts for structure, textured bags for punctuation, layered jewelry to reveal personality.

The takeaway? Dare to experiment—but always keep proportions and material harmony in check.

The Layering Signature: From Paris to New York

For fashion editors from Paris to New York, layering isn’t just a seasonal trend—it’s a signature. By playing with volume, texture, and contrast—think faux fur vest over a tailored blazer—they turn every outfit into a personal statement. Layering is how they tell their story without saying a word.

Véronique Tristram: The Bold, Tailored Layering Queen

Femme au look street style audacieux en superposition : costume vichy noir et blanc, gilet en laine grise, casquette noire et grand sac à motifs contrastés.

Ex-Glamour Germany fashion editor, Véronique Tristram embodies bold, personal elegance. Her signature? Blending classics with unexpected pieces: think black-and-white gingham suit, grey wool vest, contrasting oversized bag, and that perfectly nonchalant cap. Structured layers, sharp tailoring, standout accessories—all in a refined, often neutral palette punctuated with vivid touches. Feminine, creative, uncompromising.

Practical Tips for Mastering the Art of Layering

  1. Start with Structured Basics: A crisp white tee, a black turtleneck, or an oversized shirt lays the foundation. Fashion editors also swear by second-skin bodysuits or ribbed tanks to avoid that dreaded “stuffed” look under upper layers.

  2. Mix Materials: Pair fine cashmere knits with suede jackets, or cotton tees under shearling coats. Texture contrasts create visual depth and a tactile appeal. Erica Davies loves juxtaposing silk, wool, and leather for a perfectly textured, balanced look.

  3. Play Smart with Volume: An oversized blazer gains impact over a slim base. Flared or palazzo pants balance beautifully with a fitted top. Rule number one? Never pile XXL over XXL without structure.

  4. Structure with Accessories: Belts—especially cinched over long coats—shape your layers. Fine scarves or printed silk ones add movement and unexpected color or graphic contrasts.

  5. Outerwear is Everything: A well-thought silhouette deserves a strong final layer: a camel trench, an officer’s coat, an oversized bomber. It’s often this last layer that defines your style intent.

Fashion editors we’ve studied also highlight the importance of subtle details: a shirt collar or cuff peeking out, a dress layered over pants for discreet surprise. Layering isn’t just piling on clothes—it’s deliberate composition.


The 5 Golden Rules of Elegant Layering


  1. Start with light foundations: organic cotton tee, flowy shirt, or second-skin body.
  2. Structure with a middle layer: cardigan, V-neck knit, or sleeveless vest.
  3. Finish with a statement piece: oversized blazer, quilted jacket, or robe coat.
  4. Contrast cleverly: play with fabrics (cotton vs. silk), cuts (loose vs. fitted), colors (neutral vs. deep tones).
  5. Balance is key: volumes should complement each other. Oversized top? Opt for tailored bottoms (flares, structured leggings).

Comfort and Creativity Through Layering

There’s comfort in layering—pair a light dress with a cashmere or virgin wool sweater. It keeps you warm, and every layer reflects your style.

Layering is more than a trend—it’s an invitation to explore your creativity. Don’t be afraid to combine unexpected pieces. Open your wardrobe—and start layering.