Learn to Layer: Shirting

  photo by Weston Wells

Not many guys think of the button down shirt as a layering piece, but I think it’s time to make a formal argument on their behalf. While most stylish guys will  be running around with scarves, sweaters, and vests to show off their expertise in the layering department, go and grab a flannel shirt to provide that extra bit of warmth. The photo above is one of my favorite looks that I’ve styled and the addition of the flannel dress shirt is really what makes the entire look. The second shirt adds less bulk than most vests and sweaters, which makes it perfect for those of you who are trying to get the most out of your figure–who isn’t–and it’s also a very subtle way to add some color or pattern if you have a fairly simple look otherwise.

 photo via Michael Bastian

Alternatively, the shirt can steal the show and function as your outermost piece of clothing. As shown above by Michael Bastian, a thin sweater is a great first layer underneath a button-down. The turtleneck makes for a particularly interesting contrast to the shirt as the neck frames the face and keeps the inner layer from getting lost underneath the outer layer. Those interested in this might want to try with a simple solid turtleneck, but a striped one can make for an interesting choice, as well. Contrasting colors with the inner and outer layer can provide a great bit of pop that is worth noticing, which can be even more noticeable with the shirt’s sleeves rolled like in this look.

photo by Weston Wells

Finally, we arrive at the most simple and straightforward approach at layering shirts. Throwing on two shirts, one on top of the other, may seem like it should be the simplest of these three looks, but in fact it is probably the most difficult. The success of wearing two shirts will come first and foremost in proportions. You’ll really need them to be fairly fitted to keep yourself from looking like you’ve put on weight, so keep this in mind before you put this inspiration into action. Secondly, you’ll want to play around a bit with how you tuck in the two pieces as it’s not easy to get that perfectly disheveled style that is key to the perfection here. Don’t be afraid to experiment with this one as it might not come perfectly the first time!