Budget Stylista: 3 Layered Looks

Come winter, I seem to gain about 10 pounds. I’m never sure if this is actual holiday weight, or whether it’s just the appearance of bulky layers. Living in Minnesota for the year I’m getting used to the cold, but not what I look like in the mirror.

By Charlotte

Layering is a fine art. It needs to do two things – keep you warm and make you look good. Around August I start flicking through magazines, excited and inspired by the layered looks on the fashion pages. Although in reality, size 2 models look great with some extra bulk. I do not.

The best way to layer- both for warmth and for style – is by using thin layers. I’ve chosen to use the same thin jersey dress for each of these outfits, which can be layered both over and under for extra warmth. Even colder where you are? Add thick socks, boots and a warm winter coat.

Outfit One.

Shopping Deets: Dress – Forever 21, $17.80; Sweater – YesStyle, $15; Over-the-knee socks – Miss Selfridge, $5; Oxfords – Target, $19.99; Belt - Miss Selfridge, $12.

Winter doesn’t have to mean dull, grey colors. I chose to layer a thick, yellow cardigan over this navy blue dress. Belting a cardigan over the top is a great way to highlight your shape while keeping warm and stylish- it’s a style blogger favorite. I chose oxfords and knee socks, but this would look just as good with tights or leggings. And before you get all hot and bothered…YES! You can wear black and navy together.

Outfit Two.

Shopping Deets: Dress – Forever 21, $17.80; Blazer – Target, $24.99; White Tee – Debenham’s, $9; Booties - Forever 21, $24.80; Tights – Metropark, $13.30; Scarf - Bows and Bandits, $14.

Thin, soft blazers are a great way to layer up and keep stylish. Choose a light one that you can easy fit under a winter coat. I’ve also added a long sleeved top here than can be layered underneath the dress and a cute little scarf for extra warmth. This is a bit more of a classy look – it would be great for work but is also a really fun, trendy way to dress up for class.

Outfit Three.

Shopping Deets: Dress – Forever 21, $17.80; Skirt - Miss Selfridge, $22; Sweater – Urban Outfitters, $19.99; Flats – Charlotte Russe, $19.50.

A dress doesn’t always have to be just a dress. Get more mileage out of your wardrobe by wearing your dresses as either tops or skirts. Add a sweater over the top, or like here, wear a high-waisted skirt for a completely different look. This striped cardigan brightens up a simple outfit and you can opt for flats and tights or a hot pair of riding boots to round this look out.