The Art of Layering
No matter where you live, weather is a factor when getting dressed each morning.
There are times when you bundle up in your favorite sweater only to find yourself overheated the minute you step into a restaurant with a hot date. Then what? This is the beauty of layering.
Foundation pieces are key! Our favorites are the leggings and long tanks from Tees by Tina. They are smooth, stretchy, one-size fits most and create a long, lean look for the perfect foundation. Next add a slip dress by Free People or lightweight loose tank that will allow you to remove your top layer, should you overheat. Then add a fun pullover sweater, cardigan or poncho. This is a chic and stylish look that transcends all ages. Create different looks by adding frilly, lacey or simple slips.
Layering is perfect for golf, a day on the town and ideal for travel.
There are many lifestyle brands that can be worn for all three. Golftini is one of my favorite brands — offering a darling boutique collection of skorts, feminine polos, tech jackets, V-neck sweaters and lightweight vests.
On the course – in the cool of the morning – start with leggings; add a skort, a sleeveless polo, V-neck sweater, tech jacket and a vest. As the day warms you can easily remove leggings and a layer or two on top depending how hot it gets. Add a cashmere poncho and a pair of sandals to your sleeveless polo and skort — and voila you’re ready for an evening out!
When traveling, layering is the answer to dressing in all climates! You could be in Palm Springs when it’s 100 degrees out, but if you pop into a restaurant, it could be 60 degrees in the air conditioning. In any climate you need to be prepared! Our favorite travel piece is our lightweight cashmere poncho. Our poncho looks fabulous with jeans, dresses or over yoga clothes with flip-flops.
Don’t be afraid to get creative — play with the clothes you have to see what pieces work for layering. Then make a list of key pieces you may need to add. A great pair of leggings, a long tank, a slip dress and a cashmere poncho will get you started. Happy Layering!
Michelle Phillips
Dolly Mama Boutique, Gig Harbor, WA
