Men's Fashionable Winter Layering Tips
CHO Fashion & Lifestyle
There's no denying it: winter is most definitely here!
If the onset of cold weather has you looking at your wardrobe in a different light, then you need our men's winter layering guide at CHO!
Bringing you all our top tips on staying warm without compromising style this winter, we're offering a host of fashionable looks alongside our top recommendations for suave winter layering that'll have you stepping out in style throughout the entire season.
Prepare to be wrapped up in style this winter!
Table of contents:
What is the 3-layer rule for winter?
What is the 3-layer rule for winter?
Mainly associated with layering for outdoor activity, the 3-layer rule suggests that to stay warm in cold winter conditions, three layers, consisting of a base layer, a middle layer, such as a sweatshirt, and an outer layer, such as a warm coat, should be worn.
Although originally made with those taking on winter expeditions and adventures in mind, the 3 layer rule can easily be applied and adapted to everyday dressing to keep you warm in the winter during your commute, a country stroll, or a walk into town to see friends.
"There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing." - Alfred Wainwright, A Coast To Coast Walk
Choosing suitable clothing for your three layers is crucial to perfecting the rule.
First, you should opt for a snug base layer that isn't too tight, as this allows the air to circulate. The thin layer of air between yourself and your clothing helps insulate you from the cold.
Your middle layer should be warm; the better it retains body heat, the warmer you will stay. Merino wool jumpers and polyester sweatshirts are great middle-layer options, whilst flannel and fleece are also popular, as they lock in the warmth to help you stay cosy.
Finally, a waterproof or water-resistant coat is the best option for your outer layer, helping to keep the layers underneath dry.
Waterproof coats are generally windproof, so they are a better choice for fighting the bracing cold in an area with more extreme winter weather. Although they're usually a more expensive option, the investment is worth it if you live in severe weather conditions.
Water-resistant coats are a great choice for light rain or snow, as they repel water, effectively keeping you dry. They're also breathable, making them a better option for an inner city commute as they allow body heat to escape more easily, which is great for when you're jumping on and off public transport.
Why is winter layering so important?
Winter layering is so significant as it’s key to helping you stay dry, warm and healthy and as winter weather is so unpredictable, it means whatever you decide to wear, you’ll be ready for anything!
Too long spent outdoors with improper layering in freezing weather increases your risk of hyperthermia, and this is more likely to happen if you’re cold and damp, so invest in some layers based on the 3-layer rule and face the weather in both style and comfort this season.
So, now you know the basics of the 3-layer rule, you're probably wondering how to apply it to your wardrobe. Read on to discover how to do it yourself!
How to do winter layering?
The best way to achieve optimum winter layering is to dress for the entire day rather than just the morning weather. For example, if you're visiting family and travelling in low temperatures and bracing wind and rain, you'll want to be able to remove some layers once you're indoors and in front of the fire.
Layers need to be able to be added or removed depending on winter's changeable weather, so as a rule of thumb, always dress for weather that is around 10°C colder than the temperature reads, but choose at least one lightweight underlayer should you end up in a building with central heating where you'll need to de-layer.
Style tips for winter layering
There are two main style tips to follow regarding winter layering: dress your layers from thin to thick and your colours from light to dark.
Winter-style staples are generally more versatile than summer styles because they come in muted tones. Investing in a few staple pieces allows you to create several stylish outfits that won't compromise warmth.
Finally, before we delve into our style picks, don't neglect the accessories. It's a common misconception that body heat escapes from the head.
Whilst this is true, body heat actually escapes from any exposed part of the body, so don't forget to add hats, gloves and a good pair of shoes or boots, as these accessories help insulate and protect you from the cold just as much as your layers.
Men's layered winter outfits
Now we’ve shared all our top tips on why you should be layering clothes for winter and how to do it, we thought we’d share four carefully curated outfits so you can jump straight into winter layering for yourself. From casual to formal, embrace winter style and get ready to face the chill!
Casual layering for everyday
Consider this your everyday uniform when you want to look stylish but still want to be prepared for the weather.
Take a classic long-sleeved t-shirt, like GANT’s Men’s Regular Fit Long-Sleeve and layer over a warm lumberjack-style shirt like Woolrich’s Alaskan Wool Check Men’s Overshirt. Layer over Didriksons’ Ikaros Unisex Hooded Puffer Jacket for a stylish, warm finish that’ll shield you from light winter rain, keeping your lower layers dry and ready to take on the day ahead, whether that’s heading for coffee or browsing the shops.
Formal layering for a night out
If you want something a little more formal for date night or heading for drinks, you might want to add Ted Baker's Faenza Mens Long Sleeve Geometric Shirt to your wardrobe. Layer over a Boss Orange Men's Avac V-Neck Jumper and complete the look with Barbour's Cambridge Men's Long Waterproof Mac. Paired with jeans and desert boots, this look is suave and sophisticated!
Office layering that’s cosy for the commute
If your work requires you to dress formally, this can be hard to navigate when the weather takes a turn. Still, opting for classic office staples and finishing your look with a heavy-duty coat to help you brave the elements can give you the best of both worlds, so you don't have to spend the day in damp office attire.
Pair this 1985 Knitted Long-Sleeve Men’s Slim Fit Shirt from Tommy Hilfiger with a stylish Paul Smith Crew Neck Zebra Badge Jumper and your usual office chinos, then complete the look with a Barbour Tourer Duke Men’s Jacket for the epitome of stylish 3-layer dressing.
Sport-inspired off-duty layering
If you prefer an edgier, sport-inspired, off-duty look, this is for you. Staying warm doesn't need to compromise cool dressing, and this 3-layer look encompasses fashionable style.
Take any classic t-shirt as your base layer, such as Lyle & Scotts Tonal Eagle Men's T-shirt, then layer over a W Kofu Rains Unisex Fleece Pullover for extra warmth, finishing off the look with a classic padded Barbour International Gilet. Whether embracing Après Ski vibes or simply heading to watch the game, you can't go wrong with this sport-inspired 3-layer look.
Shop for stylish men's layering options at CHO
Find all the wardrobe staples you need to curate the perfect 3-layer look by shopping for menswear at CHO. From weatherproof jackets to essential hoodies, you'll find everything you need to enhance your winter wardrobe when you browse our stylish collection.
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