Mastering the art of layering, or layeringis like having a superpower in the world of fashion. It’s the ability to construct a look that is not only visually interesting, but also incredibly functional, able to adapt to the changing temperatures of an autumn day or the transition from day to night. It’s no wonder that, in the age of the “vestir de transición” the layering has become the most important styling technique.

However, there’s a fine line between a masterful layered look and looking like you’ve put your entire wardrobe on. The fear of looking bulky or messy makes many shy away from this practice.

But today we are going to demystify it. We’ll show you how to overlap layers of clothing starting with the most fundamental piece of all: the T-shirt. With these rules and tricks, you will transform the way you dress and multiply the possibilities of your wardrobe.

 

The 3 Golden Rules of Layering (that never fail)

Before you start layering, internalise these three basic principles. They are the foundation on which any good layered look is built.

1. From Thin to Thick: The Base is Key

This is the most important rule. Always start with the lightest and thinnest layer next to the skin – usually a cotton T-shirt – and add progressively thicker garments. For example: T-shirt (thin) -> overshirt (medium) -> jacket (thick). This sequence is not only more comfortable, but also avoids unnecessary bulk and allows you to easily remove layers if you get hot.

2. The Proportion Game: Long and Short

An interesting layered look plays with different lengths to create depth. Don’t let all your clothes end at the same height. Try wearing a t-shirt slightly longer than the jacket that covers it, or let the hem of an open shirt peek out from under a sweatshirt. This trick helps to not look bulky when dressing in layers and adds a touch of studied nonchalance.

3. Harmony of Colour and Texture

This is where creativity comes in.

• Colour: For a confident look, opt for a monochrome look with layersusing different shades of the same colour. If you’re feeling bolder, combine neutral colours (white, black, grey, beige) with a splash of colour on one of the layers.
• Texture: Playing with textures in clothing is what takes a look from good to great. Combine the softness of the cotton of your T-shirt with the ruggedness of a denim jacket, the warmth of a corduroy overshirt or the shine of leather.

Iconic Layered Looks: From T-Shirt to Jacket

Starting with a simple T-shirt, you can create an infinite number of looks. Here are four formulas that never fail.

The Rebel Classic: White T-Shirt + Leather Jacket. It is the unofficial uniform of music and film icons. A white t-shirt and leather jacket outfit is timeless, androgynous and exudes attitude. It works with everything from distressed jeans to skinny trousers.

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The Modern Lumberjack Look: T-Shirt + Checked Overshirt. The checked overshirt is a cornerstone of the layering. How to combine a checked overshirt is easy: wear it open over a basic T-shirt (white, black or grey) with jeans and boots. It’s the perfect look for an autumn weekend.

The Urban Uniform: T-Shirt + Open Shirt. The simplest and most effective way to add a layer. Combining a T-shirt and an open shirt (whether linen, denim or cotton) is a gesture that transforms a basic look into one with more dimension and style.

El Toque Deportivo: T-shirt + Bomber jacket. La bomber jacket with t-shirt is a versatile combination that moves between sporty and casual. Perfect for a relaxed look with a touch of trend.

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The Overshirt or “Shacket” The Queen of the Capes. If there is one garment that defines the layering modern, that’s the shacket. But what aboutwhat is a shacket? Its name says it all: it is a hybrid between a shirt (shirt) and a jacket (jacket). It is thicker than a normal shirt but lighter than a jacket, making it the perfect transitional piece. The looks with women’s overshirts and men are infinite, and you can find it in a multitude of fabrics, from corduroy to wool or denim.

Case Study: Timothée Chalamet and Androgynous Layering

Few modern style icons have mastered the art of layering like Timothée Chalamet. His often androgynous and experimental approach is a masterclass in how to layer garments in unexpected and cool ways.

Chalamet often starts with the simplest of basics: a perfectly tailored black or white T-shirt. On top of it, he builds looks that defy convention. We’ve seen him combine a basic T-shirt with printed silk shirts worn completely open, leather jackets with dramatic lapels or satin bombers.

His master trick is to mix textures and formalities. He can wear a cotton T-shirt underneath a Louis Vuitton harness on the red carpetor a rock-inspired graphic T-shirt under a Haider Ackermann suit. In doing so, it blurs the lines between masculine and feminine, formal and casual, demonstrating that the layering is ultimately a tool for expressing a unique and fluid identity.

Layering is much more than just putting one garment on top of another. It’s a conscious technique that allows you to create dynamic, adaptable and deeply personal looks. It’s the perfect excuse to play with your wardrobe, rediscover forgotten pieces and express every nuance of your style.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Start with the basic rules of balance and, once you feel comfortable, start breaking them. Because in the art of layeringAs in fashion in general, the best creations are born out of trust and creativity.

¿Cuál es tu combinación de capas favorita? ¿Tienes algún truco que quieras compartir? ¡Te leemos en los comentarios de Serguei!

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• “Guía para Encontrar tu Sudadera Ideal: Tejidos, Cortes y Cómo Cuidarlas”
• “Cómo Saber si una Sudadera es de Buena Calidad: Fíjate en estos 3 Detalles”