Layering Essentials

Fall is all about layering - yummy vests, leggings, boots, tanks, tunics, and the list goes on.  This is my favorite time of year because the combinations are endless and there is no right or wrong when it comes to layering (or fashion as a whole for that matter).  It's the perfect opportunity to play in your closet and try new, unexpected combinations.

One of my favorite things to do is grab two or three pieces that I absolutely love, but have never worn together at once, and then put them together and find a way to make them work.  Any mixture of stripes, colors, patterns, or plaids can work as long as you find a common denominator - a necklace, a scarf, a sweater, an interesting pair of pants or leggings.  Sure, your brain might insist that you don't "match," but challenge yourself to wear it anyway.  I love pushing the envelope and making myself feel uncomfortable (temporarily) when it comes to putting outfits together - in between taking risks and challenging yourself to try new things is where you'll find your own unique style and confidence and that is what fashion is about.

If you're going to experiment with layering, a great place to start is the essentials - tanks, tees, and leggings.  I've owned many.  Here are my favorites:

Tanks

The clear winner here is SkinnyTees Basic Wide Strap Cami ($32, Amazon.com). They are also available in packs of two from QVC for $34, plus the cost of shipping. Check them out here.  Pricey, I know, but I promise they are life-changing.  They stretch for days without stretching out.  The best part? ONE SIZE FITS MOST!

Source: Amazon.com

Leggings

Lori Goldstein makes the best leggings I've ever owned.  There is nothing worse than wearing a pair of leggings and have them suddenly start rolling down your waist. You don't have to worry about that with Lori's Regular Knit Leggings ($45, QVC.com). They have an extra wide waist band and come in lots of rich colors.  Buy multiple pairs here.

PSA: Be sure to read the reviews to find the right size for you.  They typically run large and long.

Source: QVC.com

Long Sleeve Shirts

I love Old Navy's Perfect Tees! At $10.50 (OldNavy.com), you just can't beat the value.  They're a great length for layering, they're washer/dryer friendly (otherwise they wouldn't be in my closet), and they come in your basic black and white, plus plenty of fun colors.

Source: OldNavy.com

Some other things your going to need this season:

- Fun scarves (a great place to incorporate a delicious floral print)
- Tall or, better yet, over-the-knee boots
- Tunic tops
- Long sweaters and cardigans
- Tights
- A hat for every occasion (I love Goorin Bros.' Goldman Suede Fedora Hat)

Do you have a favorite "essential?" I'd love to hear about it - please leave a comment or send me a message using the link to the right.  Happy layering!