Layer-up-the-art-of-layering-clothes

What is layering?

In its simplest form, layering is the subtle art of combining different clothing and accessories.

Traditionally Layering is often broken down into three distinct components. The first is the base layer which sits next to the skin, a cotton t-shirt like our Icon Logo Tee would work well.

Next comes a slightly thicker mid-layer to provide insulation without being too bulky, think our New Sacramento Shirt or Glyndon Vest.

Finished off with an outer layer to protect from the elements, like our Lined Eisenhower.

Why layer?

You never know what life's going to throw at you, one minute you can be content, walking down the street, the next, you turn a corner, weather conditions can change, and you can find yourself freezing cold in the middle of a storm.

Layering outfits help you manage some of this uncertainty by regulating your body temperature, allowing you to open garments or take them off when you're too hot and do them up when you're too cold.

We're all guilty of moaning about 'not having anything to wear', next time, before reaching for your wallet, have a think about how you can layer new combinations for a fresh look. The possibilities are endless! Layering clothes is a sustainable and low-cost way of extending your wardrobe's life.

Workwear layering

We've seen workers layering Dickies clothes since our inception in 1922. It's no surprise, layering is practical and functional, much like our clothing.

I'm sure you'll have noticed that the workwear look has permeated into broader society in the last decade, being adopted by everyone from Tyler the Creator to Daniel Day Lewis.

A vital element of that look is still very much in the layering. For a low fuss, utilitarian fit, try combining our Icon Logo hoodie with our bib overall, completing the look with our Morristown jacket.

How to layer clothes for winter

Layering comes into its own in the colder weather. The extra layers help you stay warm and protected. However, be warned, you have to strike a delicate balance; otherwise, you can end up looking like you're on an arctic expedition. A strong layering system is essential.

Luckily, we've got some tips on how to avoid this. Ensure that you layer garments in increasing thickness and size, with your thinnest and tightest garment nearest your skin and thickest and largest on the outside.

On really cold days you can opt for a long-sleeved t-shirt. Complete your winter outfit with a statement scarf, which not only looks sharp but protects your sensitive neck area.

How to layer clothes for summer

Layering isn't just a winter affair; it can also get you comfortably and stylishly through the warmer months.

You know those days that are too warm for a jacket, but too cold for a t-shirt? Tackle them with ease by layering a thicker shirt like our New Sacramento over a t-shirt.

The last few seasons have seen menswear fashion shows inundated with short sleeve shirts like our Short Sleeve Work Shirt, try wearing open over a white vest to ooze retro-cool.

It doesn't just have to be clothes that you layer, you can make a stylish statement by layering multiple necklaces.

Layering style tips

Layering can be in equal parts exciting and daunting. Whilst some may find the countless combinations an opportunity for deeper self-expression, it may leave others scratching their heads. If you're in the latter group, there are a few tips that we can give you to ease you in.

When thinking about how to layer jackets, one tried and tested formula is to multiply them. Consider placing a lighter spring jacket like our Halma Eisenhower Jacket, under a longer overcoat for an edgy take on a classic fit.

Don't fear roll necks. They can be a useful weapon in your layering arsenal. Stick them under just about anything, and they will make you look a million dollars.

Try and stick to two colors running through the layers. Otherwise, the look can become too visually noisy. For a bold look stick to two block colors throughout.

High tech outdoor gear has rambled its way from the countryside to the streets in the last few years, becoming the epitome of street-style cool. Technical fabrics like Gore-Tex lend themselves to layering. Try wearing a thin lined jacket or softshell jacket under a waterproof jacket or outer shell.

Fashion trends come and go; however, layering has remained constant due to its practical benefits and style potential. Remember to have fun with it. You're not going to turn heads by dressing conventionally.