When the mercury just won't stop dropping and you're so over your bulky winter coat, you might be tempted to venture outdoors sans jacket. But before you catch a cold (or get frostbite), consider this super warm yet oh-so-stylish way to brave Mother Nature.
Layering a leather jacket over a toasty winter sweater gives you the best of both worlds—warmth and style—without weighing you down. And for any lady who's ever felt like an Arctic penguin while bundled up all winter long, this styling trick will come as welcome inspiration.
Lest you think these two totally different textures will leave you looking even bulkier than your heavy puffer coat, think again. It's all a matter of considering your outfit's proportions, as Katie Holmes proved when she dipped her toe into the trend this fall. Her chunky high-low turtleneck meshed perfectly with her roomy black leather jacket and faded jeans, making for the perfect menswear-inspired ensemble.
On the opposite coast, Ali Larter braved the moderately chilly Los Angeles temps in a skirt and tights paired with a bright pink sweater and a black leather jacket. There was loads of layering going on here, but a melange of lightweight textures merged together effortlessly.
It looks like Jennifer Aniston has also mastered the art of layering. Her black ribbed sweater really popped against an edgy jacket and jeans combo, adding texture without extra bulk.
Ready to get layering? Test this styling trick out at home with these perfect sweater and jacket combos. You can keep things loose and comfy with a neutral turtleneck ($50) and roomy faux-leather jacket ($60) for a look like Holmes' or go for a fun pop of color with a colorblocked sweater ($161) and dark jacket ($138) combo. Better yet, why not try a twist on the classic black-on-black palette with a monochromatic gray sweater ($135) and jacket ($430)? Either way, you'll be turning heads.
ModCloth Through The Foliage Jacket, $60, at modcloth.com; Chadwicks of Boston Touch of Cashmere Turtleneck, $50, at chadwicks.com
Express (Minus The) Leather Quilted Sleeve Jacket, $138, at Express; SHAE Stitchy Moto Pullover, $161, at shaeny.com
Badgley Mischka Naomi Colorblock Leather Jacket, $430, at saksoff5th.com; Elk Fleck Knit Sweater, $135, at elkaccessories.com
