Fall is here, bringing that eternal dilemma: how to stay warm without looking like a marshmallow? Between chunky knits and bulky puffer jackets, the "Michelin Man" risk is real. That’s where the art of layering comes in.
This technique of stacking clothes allows you to adapt to temperature swings while structuring your silhouette. The secret? Picking the right fabrics, playing with volumes, and letting colors create depth.
What is Layering?
Layering is a stylistic technique that involves assembling several layers of clothing—not to hide under fabric, but to compose a rich, textured look with personality.
It is the perfect balance between style and functionality: every layer has a specific role.
The Base: A thin, fitted piece, like leggings or a velvet top.
The Mid-Layer: A shirt, a light sweater, or a sweatshirt.
The Outer Layer: A coat, a short jacket, or a sleeveless puffer vest.
The whole look is built on contrast—between materials, cuts, and colors—to create a visually balanced effect.
🎯 Goal: Stay warm without the bulk. Focus on structure and materials, not volume.
Keys to Perfect Layering in 2026
1. Start with a Fitted Base
Successful layering relies on a base piece that defines the silhouette.
Soft velvet leggings, a fitted mock-neck top, or a second-skin T-shirt create a comfortable, breathable foundation. These garments keep heat close to the body while avoiding unnecessary bulk.
💡 A detail often forgotten: thread density changes everything. Well-constructed velvet doesn't move—it hugs the body and keeps its line, even after dozens of washes.
2. Play with Textures
Mixing textures is what gives layering its visual richness.
Pairing velvet with wool, Lycra with brushed cotton, or a denim jacket creates a sensory story.
This season, the trend is all about contrast: matte fabrics against satin reflections, soft knits against technical textiles.
Example: Corduroy leggings + oversized men's shirt + structured wool coat.
3. Control the Volumes
To avoid a "piled-on" effect, think of an inverted pyramid:
- Close to the body at the bottom,
- Medium volume in the center,
- And more ample width on the outer layer.
Successful layering highlights the silhouette instead of hiding it.
Simple rule to remember: Too much volume kills the volume. The idea is to create relief, not weight: alternate light materials with denser pieces to maintain a harmonious look.
4. Dare to Use Color
Fall doesn't have to be just beige and gray.
Introducing surprising colors into your layering instantly adds depth and personality to the outfit!
Purple leggings, an electric blue top, an orange scarf, or a matcha green accessory... These vibrant shades boost your mood and rebalance the fall palette for a "wow" effect.
Style Tip: The Rule of 3
Three layers maximum.
It's the perfect balance between comfort and visual clarity.
- Fitted base (leggings, thin top)
- Textured mid-layer
- Structuring jacket, coat, or cardigan
More? You lose the structure. Less? You lose the depth.
🧵 UJO Study on Fall 2026 Shopping Habits
Out of 300 customers surveyed, 72% say they wear velvet leggings or tops as their primary layering base in the fall.
Thermal comfort and the softness of the fabric are cited as the top two reasons for this choice.
(Source: UJO Internal Shopify Data 2026)
Layering Ideas to Try with Our Velvets
💜 Look 1: Minimal Chic
Green velvet leggings + Oversized wool sweater + Sleeveless denim jacket + Brown ankle boots
🧡 Look 2: Retro Sporty
Vintage sweatshirt + Sleeveless denim jacket + Mint green velvet leggings + White sneakers
💚 Look 3: Urban Cocooning
Purple velvet leggings + Black base layer + Wool coat + Thick socks & boots + Wool balaclava
🎨 Visual Tip: Mix a dark base with a lighter mid-layer to elongate the silhouette.
Sustainable Fabrics Made to Last
Good layering relies on well-cut, durable pieces.
Our leggings and tops are Made in France using high-end Italian fabrics—materials that retain their elasticity, softness, and vibrance season after season.
This allows you to layer year after year: a quality foundation with infinite combinations.
Perfect layering isn't measured by the number of layers, but by its balance. It's the art of assembling the right pieces, playing with contrasts, and putting comfort back at the heart of style.
This fall, swap bulk for creativity: dare to mix textures, colors, and thoughtful layers—in short, have fun!
Fall Layering: Your Most Frequently Asked Questions
What does layering mean in fashion?
Layering is the art of stacking multiple garments to create depth, style, and comfort. Each layer serves a purpose: the base layer (close to skin), the mid-layer (for texture/warmth), and the outer layer (to structure the silhouette).
What is the 3-layer rule for winter clothing?
The 3-layer rule is a simple formula for cold weather: a breathable base (like a velvet top), an insulating mid-layer (sweatshirt or knit), and a protective outer shell (coat or jacket). This ensures warmth without overheating or losing your shape.
How can I layer without looking bigger?
The secret is to alternate weights. Use a very thin, "second-skin" base like our velvet leggings. If your top is oversized, keep the bottom fitted. Always use a structured outer layer (like a wool coat with shoulder definition) to "frame" the softer layers underneath.
How do I mix colors and textures in layering?
Try the "Contrast Rule": pair matte fabrics (wool) with shiny ones (velvet), or chunky knits with smooth denim. For colors, pick one "hero" piece like an Ochre velvet legging and surround it with neutrals like navy, black, or cream to let it shine.
Is layering suitable for petite silhouettes?
Yes! To avoid being overwhelmed by fabric, use monochromatic layers (similar shades) to create a vertical line that elongates the body. Use a high-waisted black corduroy legging as a base to keep the legs looking long under oversized coats.