Some of my clients enjoy wearing lots of roomy layers with lots of drape. The visual effect is dramatic, creative, interesting, and a bit avant-garde. The look is very comfortable and hides the contour of the body. Autumn and a milder Winter can be a great time for it, because it’s cool enough for cosy layers, but warm enough to leave off the arctic insulation. 

It’s tricky to explain these outfits, which is why I was excited when I saw some examples. Maybe it’s your look, or you’ll be inspired to create something similar. Personally it’s not mine, but I thoroughly enjoy helping my clients pull it together. Coincidentally, both outfits created a black column of colour, and topped things off with a chartreuse jacket or coat.

Short Topper

Here a pair of relaxed black cropped cargo pants is combined with an oversized charcoal shirted tunic with hectic asymmetrical hem. The volume and shape of the hem of the tunic create a draped effect with layers. Stompy black lug sole boots continue the column of black and add a tough and on-trend touch. A boxy short jacket adds some bright, a horizontal high-contrast line, and accentuates the layers of the outfit. It’s worn open to create a vertical line down the centre front of the body. The eye-catching locks of the model add a theatrical touch. I can see a tote work well as a bag.

Long Topper

Here a pair of cropped black skinny jeans is combined with a simple black pullover. Practical black weatherproof boots with striking white soles continue the column of black, which acts as a simple backdrop for the draped and architectural high-contrast statement coat. Although this version has fewer layers, the complex design of the coat with asymmetrical hem visually creates a layered effect. The black high neckline that peeks through from underneath the neck of the coat makes the coat stand out even more. A satchel would probably be the best bag to carry as it wouldn’t interfere with the lines of the outfit.