Eye-on-Fashion: November 12, 2017

We've all seen retailers push the "layered look" in many a fall fashion campaign.

The cynic in me always questioned if all the layering was just a way for them to sell more product to the consumer, but the girl who's new to this whole 'winter-beginning-in-October' thing is thinking it's a darn good call.

Is layering practical when it comes to staying warm in Saskatchewan right now? Sure it is. Does it provide endless ways of adding style and warmth to any look? Absolutely.

With those questions answered, is it safe to say that "layering" always equates to instant style? Well....not quite.

I'm less concerned with the utilitarian layers such as wearing thermal leggings under your work slacks or throwing on five different t-shirts under your cable-knit sweater. Although potentially a must (at least according to my Sask-born-and-raised co-workers!), I was hoping for some more chic ideas to contemplate when it comes to layering.

Pushing the long-johns aside for the moment, my focus this week is on finding some sneaky ways of incorporating style, trends, and pizazz to your overall look.

How can we layer on style to an otherwise practical foundation this winter?

"Layers" can be enhanced through the clever use of accessories and textures. It doesn't take too much effort to add a lot of eye-catching style to a practical, below-freezing base layer.

1) A Colourful Winter Coat: Probably the most essential "layer" of all during the colder months, a winter parka and the like, is also the easiest way to get stand-out style. The wintry white landscape that already surrounds us here in the Humboldt area provides the perfect backdrop for brightly-coloured outerwear. If you choose a bright red coat or a cobalt blue puffer jacket, you will have the edge over the sea of black and brown jackets everywhere. It's also a way for the fashionista to exhibit her own personality and aesthetic right away, as it will be the first thing people will notice about your "outfit".

I love it when I see a woman go rogue and select an uncommon coat colour. It instantly opens my eyes and elicits another glance. So....don't be shy! Embrace colour, and admiring glances are sure to follow. It's also a fantastic way to beat the winter blahs plaguing us when we're still very far away from spring.

2.) Statement Bag: Not quite a practical way of staying warm, but it is an accessory that can complement your brightly-coloured coat. Going beyond the basic black leather handbag, maybe Fall/Winter 2017-18 will be the year for resting a bolder bag on the shoulder of your down jacket. Look for interesting patterns, embroidered designs and jewel tones or brights.

3) Colourful/Textured/Patterned Hosiery: Legwear such as tights and leggings are not only practical for keeping gams warm, but they also provide a great way to add some interest to a Fall/Winter look. It's also very cost-effective and on-trend. These are not your grandma's pantyhose, but rather a style statement that can add a lot of fun to an outfit.

4) Belts/Hardware/Metal Accessories: Jewelry can hardly be classified as a layer, but it can add the perfect touch as a "topping" to all the layers beneath. Try adding a wide belt on top of your coat to cinch in the waist. Look for interesting metal necklaces and bracelets. It's all in the details, as they say, and smaller accessories are a great way to retain your unique approach to style when the layers beneath them swing more to the practical side. 

5) Scarves: Seems pretty obvious, doesn't it? Scarves have been popular for the past several years and for good reason: they can be budget-friendly, they can add a pop of colour to any outfit, and keep your neck warm. One size fits all and they look great on women of every age. Scarves are available in every colour, texture, and pattern, and put the finishing touch on any winter get-up. No longer a "layer" reserved for French women sipping lattes in a cafe, scarves have become as essential for Canadian women everywhere. Try something different this season. Scarves bring attention to the face, so pick one that compliments your complexion and that suits your unique personality. 

6) Chunky Knitwear/Cardigans/Ponchos: Luckily things have improved on the poncho and cardigan front since I sported Mr. Rogers-esque looks as a kid in eighties. Both top-layers can be found in a variety of colours and textures and provide much-needed warmth during the colder months. Always a great add-on to every winter outfit, ponchos and cardis are as stylish as they are practical.

7) Funky (yet practical) Hat: Donning a statement chapeau is the perfect way to keep the heat in while it doubles as a way to exhibit personal style. Look beyond the basic toque (we wouldn't be Canadian without them, don't get me wrong!), as headwear can bring some excitement to your look whilst doing its job in keeping you warm. Faux fur in bright colours is a huge trend this season, so why not try some in the form of a hat? Just like scarves, look for bold colours, patterns, and textures. Winter accessories and layers provide the ideal way to draw attention to our faces, so use that to your advantage. Don't forget a warm smile too, because that is truly the best accessory of all.

8) Textured Coat/Faux Fur/Mixing Patterns in Outerwear: I like to take risks when it comes to mixing patterns, stripes, plaids, and colours. There are very few "rules" anymore when it comes to fashion, but there can be a fine line between a hot look and a hot mess when blending different textures and colours. Trust your instincts when mixing pattern and assess your over-all look in the mirror. Make sure the colour scheme is similar, in order to unite the two textures or patterns. If done correctly and with confidence, mixing unexpected elements together can result in a stand-out, polished and intriguing winter outfit.

If you have a style question you'd like to ask, or a topic you would like me to cover,  please shoot me an email. I'd love to hear from my fellow fashionistas in Humboldt and area! kkraus@goldenwestradio.com

Katie Kraus is a Toronto-born, fashion-loving, 107.5 Bolt FM Announcer and former city girl, gone country. Stay tuned for weekly Eye-on-Fashion Blogs at discoverhumboldt.com.