FALL FASHION | The New Way to Layer

via harperandharley on Instagram

Originally posted in The CLOSET

Don't let this last day of summer fool you for a single hot minute. Sure, it might not get freezing overnight, but before you know it, we'll be swapping our sandals for closed-toes, our tees for toppers and our breezy cute things for errthang cozy. The start of fall always signals a switch from simple, throw-on-and-go dressing to the all-important art of layering. For minimalists (aka the fashion lazy like me), layering can feel like a daunting task. I mean, seriously, who has time for mixing and matching textures and colours and playing with proportions to get it all just right when you've got 2 screaming kids, an early morning commute, or a snooze button addiction to contend with. Unless you're a stay-at-home stay-at-home, you don't.

Thankfully, this fall is all about laissez-faire layers that make all your casual go-to's look much cooler.  Whether it's an open grey sweater coat or cardi worn over your favourite slip dress, a plaid shirt dress worn open over your denim, or a  cozy statement sherpa bomber, you'll be begging for the cold weather to make an appearance, if only so you can start wearing these looks stat.

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How to Layer for Fall Like a Fashion Blogger

The Julia Cape at Roots

Originally posted in The Fashion Scoop

While it's hard to pinpoint exactly what makes an outfit Pin-worthy, there's one trick that will forever change the way you dress. And since summer calls for outfits that can handle the heat above all else, fall feels like the perfect time to put this not-so-secret secret into practice. It's called the third-piece rule. 

While 2-piece outfits are enough to keep you from scoring an indecent exposure warning from your HR department, it's that essential third piece that will make you feel like your outfit is complete. Fashion stylists and bloggers wouldn't be caught dead leaving their apartments without their third piece on. Even staffers at Nordstrom, Banana Republic, and Madewell (among others) are encouraged to follow this guideline - they're asked to always wear outfits on the job comprised of 3 pieces, not including their shoes.  And style goddesses like Olivia Palermo usually add a 4th or 5th piece in, just because they can.  

Luckily, the trick is super simple to pull off. Put on your pants or skirt & top. Fine. Now don't forget that third piece. Layer on a jacket, blazer, vest or a statement accessory (necklace, fun belt, oversized scarf, fedora), and you'll instantly take a basic outfit to another level. Wearing jeans and a striped tee? Add a printed vest or blazer over top. Rocking a tulle skirt & a t-shirt? Try adding a little moto bomber. How about leggings and a sweater? Don't forget your blanket poncho. Once you've mastered the third piece, it's time to play around with 4th and 5th elements. Add a printed belt, a sleek necklace or ear jackets - generally speaking, pick 2 neutral colours and then add one unexpected pop of colour in one of your accessories. And don't be afraid to take your cues from the street style pros - after all, they've spent a lifetime perfecting this trick.

See below for the fall layers that will help you get it just right...

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