Publisher's Note

Publisher’s Note
Dear readers, The summer is going fast as everyone is having fun especially that we just wrapped up the festivities of the 10 days Calgary Stampede. The weather cooperated in a way where it showered during the parade but it all went well. I’m sure that the organizers of Calgary Stampede were all happy with an [...]
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Page added on September 14, 2009

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The Art of Layering and Fashion Cents

Layering is one technique for dressing up that can be very stylish and chic, and also very practical, depending on your needs. Layering clothing is a huge trend that, as with many other trends, has been over indulged. Once it was reserved for nomadic people who had no choice but to carry all their belongings on their back. There are exactly two looks for layered clothes: the right look and the lumpy mattress

Layering has great practical uses in winter months when its freezing. You can start in the morning with a layered outfit to insulate yourself, and remove layers one by one as the temperature rises. Layering can transform your style, keep you warm or even solve a fashion emergency like a stain. We have so many layers on now it’s like peeling an onion to get undressed – several shirts, a coat, a wife beater, leggings with a skirt on top, an arm full of bangles, multiple necklaces, among many other layering infractions.

There is such as thing as too much, so keep it under control, minimize and keep only to bare necessities. How do you know when enough is enough? Layering clothes should serve two purposes; keeping warm or looking good. These guidelines can be mixed and matched according to the specific garment, but they should always be referred to if you are in doubt..

Another important point is, keep layering within reasonable realms. You don’t need to rob a bank to own designer items. Wear a couple of your most favorite ones a time with vintage, inexpensive other pieces already in your closet to finish your look. For example a wife beater, a layering essential and can transform any outfit, be worn a variety of ways and best of all costs less than $2 a shirt.

A short, tight tank with a flannel shirt over the top isn’t layering for fashion ; it’s a method of layering for warmth. Three tops, one skirt, some leggings and a pair of shoes in assorted colors is definitely a layered for fashion your look. Layering for fashion usually involves several layers of multiple and contrasting garments.

Thinner and longer first
• This is quite a logical and simple rule. The thinner articles like cotton t-shirts,
camisoles etc would go first and not the heavier ones like jackets.
• Similarly the achieve best layering effect are achieved by using longer garment, below shorter garments. This prevents, hiding the shorter garments and accentuate the layering effect.

Splash some color
COLOR: The main point of layering clothingis to display contrasting items. Layering in a single color creates a blob effect. Showing the sharp contrast between your thin, white shirt and the bold, blue vest over the top really takes full advantage of this technique.Lighter colors look better when worn under dark colors.

Follow the principles to layer clothing for fashion.
• The purpose of layering for fashion is also to make your outfit more fun and
colorful. Layering in a single color, creates a very monotonous effect, not at all visually appealing. Therefore, it is always a good idea to add some colors.

Balance out your height

Layering can also help balance out certain figures. One of the many advantages of layering, is that it can balance out your height. With the right pieces, long waists can be broken up and big hips can be hidden. Wearing layered clothing chops up your silhouette, which can be very helpful for reducing height
• If you are taller than normal, then layering helps in breaking down your figure into small parts, producing an illusion of shortened height.

This also applies to a long waist.
• However shorter stature girls should moderate theirlayering.. too much layering will work against you.

Layer patterns and textures
•  Layering is also about balancing out the patterns and textures of various clothes.
•  A patterned long sleeved shirt looks great under a plain short sleeved
sweater.
•  Similarly a satin shirt under a cotton jacket is a classic look.
•  A short lacy skirt layered over denim jeans is another example of contrasting
textures. The best types of clothing to use for layering are scarves, vests, leggings, sweaters, unbuttoned blouses, short dresses, short tops and long tops.

Shoes and accessories do well with plain colors to give them flair.

For winters
• To keep warm, start with an insulating layer like thermal innerwear, then your shirt, t-shirt or blouse etc, and a layer of sweater, pullover etc full or half sleeves and a final outer layer of your jacket or blazer. This allows you to take of a layer at a time when it gets warmer. Finish this look with accessories like a scarf, cap, gloves etc.

Thus we see that layering is a multipurpose tool that can be both stylish and practical. Use these tips and remember to avoid too much layering if it’s a very formal event. Happy layering!

The Art of Layering and Fashion Cents

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