A cold and chilly day is best spent outside playing in the white snow and being a child again. But would you enjoy the chills of this gorgeous season if you were not in comfortable winter wear that would keep you relaxed? So when the temperature drops, layering is the key to looking stylish while staying warm.

Layering is basically a term that describes a way of dressing using many garments one on top of the other. The base layer, the mid-layer and the outer layer (also known as the shell layer) define layering. Base Layers help to regulate your body temperature and do away with moisture from your skin. The outer layer is your protective layer, for example, a waterproof jacket in the rain or a down jacket in the cold.

What is the mid-layer? How does it help and what are its variations? Read on to explore more on the subject.

Mid-layers are Crucial in winter

A mid-layer could be made up of a single or multiple items of clothing, such as a thin fleece combined with a down vest, or just a single insulator like a heavy fleece jacket worn under a shell. The mid-layer worn over the base layer helps to trap body heat and does away with sweat vapour. A mid-layer can also be an insulating layer such as a thin synthetic or a down jacket. When winters are harsh, team up the base layer with a zip-neck or a full zip mid-layer to make it easy to regulate heat and stay clear of winter shivering.

An Ideal Mid-Layer Relies On a Right Type

In order to beat the cold and look winter-ready, there are various types of mid-layers that can be used, such as sweaters, cardigans, pullovers and sweatshirts. Each garment has its own individuality and makes a unique style statement.

Sweaters

Whether it’s 20 degrees below zero or 60 degrees where you live, there is a sweater for every occasion. Made from sheep wool, cashmere, cotton, linen silk or blends; selecting the correct fabric is important. Choose from a turtle neck or a V-neck or simply up your style quotient by layering a business suit with a sweater for adulation.

Cardigans

A cardigan is a type of sweater that opens in the front and attaches with buttons, hooks, or a zipper. Fondly known as the Fishermen’s Sweater, it has become a fashion statement for casual wear. From wool to thin cotton, and from chunky wooden buttons to a thin zipper, cardigan sweaters are popular clothing options that are here to stay. Weather temperature for a cardigan ranges from 12°C to 6°C / 54°F to 43°F and is suitable to be worn under sunny skies or overcast conditions. So pick a Wool Cardigan for supreme comfort anytime, anywhere.

Pullovers

Stylish with a capital S and comfortable with a capital C, this can easily qualify as the ideal definition of a pullover. Made from soft cotton, cashmere, synthetic fabrics or a combination of all, it is suitable for temperatures ranging from up to 5°C to 0°C / 41°F to 32°F. Complete your wardrobe with this stylish piece of clothing. Men can select an enviable pure wool polo neck pullover in smart colours to be ready for winters.

Sweatshirt

Bursting with style and elegance, the sweatshirt is a type of sweater with long sleeves. Almost always made out of flannel, cotton or fleece, these are designed to be put on over the head. If worn as a mid-layer garment, a sweatshirt is suitable for temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C.

Layer up for your best look

Adding a mid-layer to clothes is a tried and tested method to maximise comfort and keep you warm during chilly days. The beauty and advantage of this concept are that it allows you to make quick adjustments to your clothing based on the weather or activity levels.

A lot of people believe that adding a mid-layer will make them look bigger than they actually are. Logically, this claim could be true but once you master the art of layering, it will actually compliment your body. Keep the under-layers more fitted and remember length and proportion is key when layering. Play with textures and different fabrics but ensure not to go overboard and avoid mixing of colours.

As a general rule, you shouldn't wear anything that feels uncomfortable. Be adventurous and accessorise your mid-layers with belts, scarves and coats. Remember these are the most visible layers and do not underestimate the power of these individual pieces. One or a combination of these will surely help you achieve that fashion-forward look.

Layer up… stay stylish!