How to Master Layering This Season: A Style Guide for Men

As the crisp chill of autumn settles in and winter draws near, your wardrobe demands more than just a good coat. The colder months ahead call for heavier fabrics, versatile layers, and a more thoughtful approach to dressing.

From classic overcoats and knitwear to essential accessories, our approach to layering ensures you’ll be prepared for every occasion - whether it’s simply wandering through the city streets, heading to the countryside, or attending a formal winter gathering.

Proper layering brings depth, texture and versatility to an outfit. While it may look effortless, there’s a real skill to getting it right. Layering allows you to adjust to changing temperatures, but also creates visual interest through contrasting fabrics and complementary colours.

Layering Rules: The Dos and Don’ts of Men’s Layering

Getting layering right is about balance - too much, and it looks bulky; too little, and it doesn’t serve its purpose. Here are some essential rules to keep in mind:

Do’s:

Do Start Thin and Build Outwards – Begin with lightweight, breathable layers and add bulk as you move outward. This keeps the outfit comfortable and prevents overheating.

Do Limit Yourself to Three Layers – Any more can feel heavy and lose shape. Three well-chosen layers are usually enough to provide both warmth and style.

Do Play with Texture – Combining materials like wool, cotton, and tweed adds depth and interest without needing bold patterns or colours.

Do Invest in Good Outerwear – A well-cut coat or jacket is the finishing touch that brings the entire look together.

Don’ts:

Don’t Go Overboard on Colour – Stick to a complementary palette. Too many competing shades will make the outfit look mismatched.

Don’t Sacrifice Fit for Warmth – Layers should sit neatly against each other; oversized pieces will only add bulk.

Don’t Mix Too Many Patterns – One statement pattern is enough. Let the rest of the outfit provide balance.

Don’t Neglect Accessories – Scarves, gloves, and hats should complement, not clash with, the layers you’re wearing.

Different occasions call for different combinations of layering. Whether you’re in the city, heading to the countryside, or dressing for an evening event, the right mix of garments ensures you’ll stay warm without compromising on style.

Smart City Layering

For the demands of city life, layering should strike a balance between sharp tailoring and practical warmth. Start with a well-cut suit as your foundation and add a waistcoat for that extra layer of warmth. For the season ahead, we have reintroduced our Fine Merino Wool Waistcoat in four new colours - an excellent option for layering in the colder months. Crafted from 100% merino wool, it offers natural warmth and a luxuriously soft feel, providing comfort without adding bulk underneath your suit.

Complete the look with a classic overcoat - an essential in the wardrobe for winter layering. Explore our collection of overcoats here. This look combined results in a layered outfit that transitions effortlessly from office hours to evening engagements.

Weekend Country Layering

Weekends in the countryside can get bitterly cold, so layering becomes essential. Begin with a base layer, such as one of our Tattersall Shirts. Add a soft, warm knit - our new Lambswool Quarter-Zips are great for insulation and come in a range of versatile colours. Finish the ensemble with a tweed jacket for texture and heritage charm. For particularly cold days in the country spent outdoors, consider one of our tweed gilets layered beneath the jacket to provide that extra warmth for the core. Combined, these pieces deliver a versatile outfit that works as well for a long walk as it does for a pub lunch by the fire.

Evening Dressing

For evening affairs and formal occasions, think in terms of sophistication and statement pieces. Start with a base as your formalwear of choice - whether this be a dinner jacket, smoking jacket, or white-tie ensemble. Add accessories like a silk scarf and gloves for that extra layer of warmth and style. An overcoat is an essential for travel to and from the event, keeping you comfortable in the colder temperatures without compromising the elegance of your outfit.

It’s important to avoid too much bulk, which can feel uncomfortable and overwhelm your silhouette. Focus on well-fitted garments, lightweight fabrics beneath, and a thoughtful balance of colours and textures.

Shop our Autumn / Winter ‘25 collection here.