Dressing for Melbourne’s unpredictable weather patterns can prove almost impossible some days. It’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day – testing both your wardrobe’s versatility and outfit creativity.
This is where personal style can begin to take the back seat, resulting in the same oversized coat and well-loved pair of jeans making an appearance one too many times.
One method to combatting Melbourne’s infamous winters’ is mastering the art of layering – to ensure both personal style and comfort is prioritised during the colder months. As an effective way to remain both chic and warm, layering can allow you to accommodate for any unexpected conditions the weather may throw your way – which Melbourne is notoriously known for.
In search of some winter fashion advice, I spoke to Melbourne-based presentation and style specialist Donna Cameron on the importance of layering during the colder months, and her tips to staying true to your own confident style in the process.
Layering and Proportions
Cameron believes layering to be “vital during Melbourne’s winter, and to be honest, during lots of the year.”
Given the weather’s tendency to keep everyone on their toes, grasping the foundations of layering is integral to maintaining personal style this season.
“Understanding proportions (not only your own, but that of the outfit you’re creating) is key to layering expertly,” said Cameron.
The stylist favours either “straight or slim fitting” bottoms paired with a “larger jumper/ cardigan/ jacket,” or alternatively “wide-legged pants with a more fitted jumper”. Determining the most effective combination will differ from person to person, Cameron emphasised.
Layering slim fitting bottoms with a larger jumper. Image: Glamour
“I’m a firm believer in layering using some voluminous pieces and adding definition elsewhere,” said Cameron. “Ensuring you add definition in your outfit where you’re happy to have it prevents a warm layered outfit from swamping you”.
This can prove quite a challenge during Melbourne’s colder months, where flattering silhouettes and individual confidence can become secondary to comfort. Feeling as though your outfit becomes ‘ruined’ by a bulky outer layer can be a common experience during the winter season.
This is where Cameron recommended “focusing on [the] limbs” or alternatively a “cinched in waist” to maintain a cosy outfit that accurately complements your body type.
Cinched in waist. Image: Nude Lucy
The Innermost Layers
The stylist also highlighted “a key thing people get wrong with layering is not getting the innermost layer right,” which Cameron noted should ideally be “snug and made of a fine wool or even synthetic fibre.”
Cameron recommended hosiery brand Tightology as one of her current winter approved labels, stressing that she “could never go back to ordinary hosiery” after discovering the label.
Merino wool patterned tights. Image: Tightology
Good quality boots
Alongside quality under garments, “boots are essential” to effectively constructing a stylish layered outfit, said Cameron. “Whether you go for ankle boots or knee high, there is no lack of on-style, comfortable and colourful options”.
If you’re unsure of where to look, Cameron provided us with some local independent brands she’s currently loving including Bared and Habbot.
Leather Knee High Boots. Image: Bared
the humble coat
Another crucial layering item is a warm coat, which Cameron recommended to be lined – “it will be much warmer and keep its shape for years longer than one that isn’t”. According to the stylist, both Kumo Clothing and Alpha60 have a variety to choose from.
Image: Alpha60
Whilst the concept of layering may feel a little overwhelming, to put it simply, “the basics are snug inner layers, good boots and warm coats and jackets… The rest is icing on the cake.”
Cameron also noted the importance of exploring individual style when putting together a layered outfit, prioritising confidence and maintaining unique fashion flair. Melbourne is known for their fashion and is one of the best places to express individuality through clothing.
Images: Pinterest
“I’m a big believer in developing your own sense of style rather than imitating,” said Cameron. “The joy of fashion is seeing a variety of looks that suit all the myriad shapes, sizes, proportions and colouring out there.”
In short – layering truly is a Melburnian’s best friend during the colder months. By effectively utilising a combination of warm accessories, footwear and undergarments through the power of layering, this will ensure personal style isn’t left behind in the search for comfort this winter season.
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