7 Ways to Play the Layering Game With Your Lightweight Jackets

Updated on 10/24/2014 at 1:53 PM

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Every year I make up an excuse to buy a new heavy coat. For me, investing in one is the silver lining to Winter's arrival. But, full disclosure — sometimes I wait too long. Why? Because I have way too much fun layering my lighter jackets, of course!

Yes, I wake up every morning to plan both my outfit and the outerwear pairings that'll top it off. Will it be my parka and my fuzzy vest? My moto and my poncho? The options are endless. Don't get me wrong, I know that eventually it'll be too windy to leave my down coat at home, but until then, I'm up for a little styling game. Keep reading to play — I promise you'll be surprised by how many of these cool-girl combinations are already hanging in your closet. Source: IMAXTREE; Front Page

Denim Jacket and Oversize Blazer

Lightwash denim looks a little more prim and proper than the distressed alternative, so play to the appeal with an oversize blazer — bonus points if you've got one in a quirky print.

Get the look:

J. Brand Bleached Jean Jacket ($295)
Phonz Says Black Blazer ($207)

J. Brand Bleached Jean Jacket

From

$295

Phonz Says Black Blazer

From

$207

Ladylike Sheath and Duffel Coat

A feminine, body-hugging jacket works as the foundation for your heavier duffel coat with a bit of hardware. Dress down the pairing with jeans and high-tops on the weekend, or veer on the conservative side with tights, a sleek skirt, and booties.

Get the look:

Siste' S Full-Length Jacket ($144)
J.Crew Wool Melton Duffle Coat ($398)

Siste' S Full-Length Jacket

From

$144

J.Crew Wool Melton Duffle Coat

From

$398

Anorak and Fuzzy Vest

A parka jacket is a staple in any girl's closet. But throw an eye-catching fuzzy vest over it, and your look will feel completely unexpected. Plus, you'd be surprised how much warmth this pairing brings you.

Get the look:

Topshop Waterfall Front Parka Jacket ($115)
ChicNova Irregular Splicing Vest ($103)

Topshop Waterfall Front Parka Jacket

From

$115

ChicNova Irregular Splicing Vest

From

$103

Distressed Denim Jacket and Varsity Bomber

Button up your jean jacket all the way and swing a varsity jacket over your shoulders for the ultimate off-duty look.

Get the look:

Rag & Bone Jean Jacket ($352)
American College Classic Varsity Jacket ($271)

Rag & Bone Jean Jacket

From

$352

American College Classic Varsity Jacket

From

$271

Leather Jacket and Printed Poncho

Start with luxe, buttersoft leather and add your printed poncho for top-notch bohemian edge.

Get the look:

Muubaa Sinoia Draped Leather Jacket ($590)
Zara Intarsia Poncho Cardigan ($80)

Muubaa Sinoia Draped Leather Jacket

From

$590

Zara Intarsia Poncho Cardigan

From

$80

Sheer Athletic Bomber and Puffer Coat

A puffer coat is sporty as is, but if you really want to play up the athletic vibes, find a bomber with stripes that run around the neck or the waist and let them peek out from underneath.

Get the look:

DKNY Oversize Organza Bomber Jacket ($395)
Mistral Down Jacket ($110)

DKNY Oversize Organza Bomber Jacket

Loose Trench and Shaggy Vest

A shaggy vest brings a bit of fun to your outfit, but avoid a complete mismatch of styles by choosing a trench with less structure. Your look will definitely feel more grunge than tailored, so finish it off with moto boots and black skinnies to stay right on point.

Get the look: