Ten Australian creatives show us how they layer their wardrobe

“Layering allows me to repurpose the pieces in my wardrobe.”

I never thought I’d say this but I have a case against outfit repeating. There’s nothing wrong with it (obviously) but when we have so many garments and accessories stuffed in our wardrobes, we have access to innumerable outfit combos. All it requires is a bit of creativity. A change of sock, headband or shoe can transform an ensemble. But layering clothes on top of each other is a dependable way to make an outfit more visually interesting.

We’ve seen Melbourne content creator Elsa Mullins style necklace stacks, stylists have chatted to us about how to effectively layer in the cold weather and I’ve shared how I wear four skirts simultaneously to create the illusion of a dress. Below, we’ve asked some of our stylish friends to tell us about how they choose to layer pieces together. You’ll see a mix of skirts over pants, layered tops and clashing prints – a feast for the eyes and senses.

Sonali Fernando, stylist

Believe it or not, my approach to layering usually starts with a concept. For this outfit, I was inspired by Japan and I wanted to create an outfit capturing some of my favourite parts of it: the colours, quirkiness and playfulness. This led me to choose my first layer for the outfit: the patterned skirt. Once I have my first layer, I pull out elements of interest from it such as its colours and what can only be described as its vibe.

I use [this] combination to then create the rest of the outfit, while paying particular attention to creating points of interest [through] texture, colour and shape. Don’t forget, if you live somewhere hot like me (shoutout Perth) you can also layer using jewellery. Finally, the more you do it, the easier it gets (I promise). 

@gnarlynandos

Jess King, Bella Management model

I spotted this Dolce and Gabbana bodice from Swop [in] Collingwood last year and immediately fell in love with it. [The] only thing – it wouldn’t do up. Instead of forcing myself to go on some crazy diet in an attempt to fit into it (and then watching it collect dust in my wardrobe), I got it altered. Clothes should fit our bodies, not the other way around.

I’ve paired it with a skirt from Zara; I’m all about pairing high-end hero pieces with affordable items. The jacket is a vintage men’s leather piece I ‘borrowed’ from my boyfriend. I feel like this plays to the neutral tones nicely and breaks up the traditionally ‘femme’ textures with a bit of structure. I added my Ganni ballerina buckle flats and a Hermes scarf for some pops of colour!.

@jessraeking

Sean Galway, content creator

As a disabled girlie, layering is crucial to any outfit that I’ll be wearing for longer than an hour. The base is always a sensory-friendly foundation, prioritising soft[ness], a comfortable fit and adjustability. It has to feel good, and I have to feel good in it. From there I like to layer pieces that inject some flavour and variety into my outfit, with pieces that serve a semi-practical function too. Colours, textures and patterns are a playground for me, and over time I’ve curated my wardrobe into a sweet spot, balancing fun and function.

@seangalway

Allie Daisy King, writer and content creator

I wore this outfit to The Last Dinner Party’s concert and it involved a skirt, slip dress, camisole, tights and a corset. I wanted this outfit to be a more girly take on the band’s regal [and] gothic aesthetic and I felt as if this could only be achieved through layers. I wholeheartedly believe that the key to a unique outfit is layering, as not many people would make the exact same choices as you when adding layers to a ‘fit. I think by just trying things on and experimenting you’ll find a cute outfit!

@alliedaisyking