The Art of Layering

After the loss of the incredible style icon, Diane Keaton, I felt it was an appropriate time to use her as a muse for a little inspiration on layering. This is one of the things Diane was master of when it came to her style. Her layered outfits added interest and personality and she made it all seem so easy...yet intentional.

Fall is the perfect time for layering - it's a great way to add some depth and richness to looks. Added bonus: layers also help with temperature control which I know can be an issue for so many! There are so many opportunities when it comes to layering than just mindlessly throwing on a sweater or jacket. I've put together some looks to illustrate some of my top tips/suggestions for putting layered looks together.

THE MUSE EDIT - This look is a timeless nod to Diane Keaton’s fearless approach to layering menswear. The mix of cream, burgundy, and brown channels Fall's richness, while the tailored layers celebrate individuality, intention when it comes to a personalized take on classic style. There's a neck tie included in this look as a literal nod to Diane's frequent accessory choice, but it's important to remember that we each have our own personal style...your go-to accessory might be a scarf, necklace, stacked bracelets etc.

THE TURTLENECK - The lightweight turtleneck (often in black or white) was a signature layering piece in Diane's closet. She would often layer it underneath a button up like this printed top or under a dress. If turtlenecks aren't for you, try a crew neck and leave a couple buttons of the shirt undone. We also often quite frequently saw Diane pair a beautiful long coat over an already layered look. I decided to show wider leg denim with a pointed kitten heel bootie as this is a pairing we are seeing a lot this season. The pointed toe and structural heel adds balance to the wider silhouette (stay tuned for my Fall boot guide coming out soon!). Extra tip: we often saw Diane swap out a coat's belt for a statement belt of her own. This is another way to add personality and more depth to a look.

SHEER WITH SLEEVELESS - We've seen mesh and sheer pieces over the past couple of years - this is a reminder that they can be fabulous layering pieces and help extend the wear of garments throughout the seasons. Pairing the mesh long sleeve under the knitted vest makes the vest more wearable in the Fall. This look illustrates how fresh a white or cream shoe can be in any season!

LAYERING WITH DEPTH - This is an example of how you can add depth by layering a variety of textures and fabrications in look. The sweater and the shirt both aren't overly bulky which makes a look like this easier and more comfortable to wear. This is a reminder that hues in the same colour family (like pink and red) pair beautifully together as do monochromatic looks - always looking effortlessly chic!

LAYERS FOR WARMTH - Intentional layers built for warmth and style. This look starts with a fitted tank and leggings as a base, then builds by adding a chambray button-up and a vest for cozy versatility. When the temperature drops, finish with an oversized coat and knit hat for cozy winter or mountain getaway style. Tip: to make layering easier, look for sweaters or coats that have a bit of a raglan sleeve or dropped shoulder (as shown in the coat here) as opposed to a tighter set-in sleeve around the arm hole.

STUDIO TO STREET- A layered approach to athleisure. I love a quilted jacket or vest for added warmth without bulk. A soft scarf also adds interest and an added cozy layer. A piece like this is thin enough to pair under a wool coat on colder days.

I hope these layered looks inspired by the timeless influence of Diane Keaton serve as a reminder that style isn't just what you wear. Style is how you put pieces together with creativity, confidence and individuality encompassing both who you are and where you need your clothes to take you in a day. I hope you are inspired to create some Fall looks using pieces from your own closet.

Remember, I'm always here to help if you need a little support shopping your closet!