The Best Plus Size Pieces for Layering

It's layering season. As we move from summer to autumn (or winter to spring in the Southern Hemisphere), temperatures can be unpredictable. Plus, even though the seasons don't officially change until September 22, we tend to expect the weather to change sooner. We all start reaching for jackets at the first whiff of pumpkin spice no matter the actual temperature. As we all know, the best tactic for dealing with changeable weather and our own foibles is to dress in light layers. 

Layering Tactics

Layering can be tricky for plus size women. There's the risk of creating an outfit that's uncomfortably bulky. I'm thinking specifically of long-sleeved tops under jackets and blazers. In cold weather, that may be exactly what you want to be wearing. But on days that are a little warm and a little cool, two sets of sleeves will have you peeling off the top layer before anyone gets a chance to admire your fabulous new jacket.

 

You want to be sure you'll look polished and put together no matter which layers are showing. Don't forget the warm jacket you throw on as you walk out the door. I like having a few neutral jackets that go with just about everything. When there's clashing between my outfit and my light coat, I like to add a scarf to cover up my actual outfit to create a separate look. Think of celebrities and royals here.

 

Start on the Inside and Work Your Way Out

Just like a good bra can make an outfit look better than an old, worn bra does, your innermost layer is a crucial part of your outfit. Good material is especially important with layering because the fabric doesn't just drape around your body. The fabric of the different layers play against each other, and you want them to slide against each other rather than catch and pull. 

A good layered outfit starts with the Sleeveless Shell. Some of us don't pay much attention to our shells and tanks because they'll be mostly covered. Until you get warm and start peeling off layers. And the part of a shell that is visible is close to your face, so people notice it more than you'd think.

 

You have limitless options to wear over a shell. A sheer jacket or eye-catching kimono creates a fun look. Blazers, Cardigans, and Jackets make for sophisticated outfits. If you're a little shy about wearing prints, try a print shell under a solid jacket. As you get more comfortable with prints, do it the other way around - a solid shell really grounds the look of a print jacket.

 

Beyond Jackets

Let's not forget vests. If you're new to Vikki Vi, you may have tried vests years ago before giving them up as a lost cause. Traditional vests are not really made for women's figures, plus size or not. But Swing Vests are designed to give us all the room we need around the middle. 

You want to wear a vest over a top with sleeves. Short, long, or 3/4 sleeves - they all look good with a vest. Your vest may be the focal point of your outfit, but don't skimp on the top you wear underneath it. Contrasting colors are the obvious choice, but we've made some interesting outfits with a matching vest and top.

Dress Fearlessly

Layering can be a little intimidating. Mixing and matching becomes a lot easier when your goal is a combination that's merely not bad. If a combo of layers doesn't make you frown at the mirror wondering if this really goes with that, then it looks great.

Check out our other posts about plus size style.