6 Wardrobe Layering Essentials That Will Elevate Your Style (and Comfort Levels)

March 25, 2024
Domunique Lashay

If 2024 isn't going quite as planned…honestly, same. But with new seasons come new opportunities for a fresh start.  

Sun is shining, flowers are blooming, trees are budding: it's finally spring. In fact, some belief systems, like ancient astrology, consider spring the beginning of the new year. 

Aries is the first zodiac sign and represents excitement, newness, and vitality. Filled with excitement and curiosity, Aries is ready to take on everything the world throws at them—they're the ultimate fire sign.

So why wouldn't we be setting goals, ramping up, clearing out, welcoming in alignment with earth and the zodiacs. It just makes sense.

Personally, I'm starting with my wardrobe and ditching cold weather staples like turtle necks, pleated pants, gloves, and toques (finally!!!) and saying hello to tees, jean jackets, baseball caps, dresses, and shapewear.

The key to building the perfect spring wardrobe? Say it with me: LAYERS. 

Layers are the ultimate fashion life-hack because they add depth, flair, and style to your outfits while allowing you to layer up (or down) as the temperatures alternate between cool and warm.

Read on for the wardrobe layering essentials we can't get enough of. 

Maxi Dresses and Midi Skirts FTW

Knix model wearing the Thigh Saver 6" in Lace Peony display: full

Maxi dresses are the epitome of transitioning (flawlessly) from day to night. Surprisingly, they aso make for the best mid layer.

Dress it up with heels and jewelry or dress it down with boots and a tote bag. Plus, to keep you warm and cozy it's so easily worn under any and all of your other layers and wardrobe staples, like a classic leather jacket, coat, or cardigan to adapt to changing temperatures.

Whether you're looking to avoid period leaks, sweat spots, or thigh chafing, consider pairing your favorite flowy dress with an iconic pair of Leakproof Thigh Savers. Go incognito with a nude tone, or opt for a spicy leopard print pattern. It's so versatile it can go from insulating layer during cold weather to thigh chafing buffer when summer hits.

Shapewear Is Everything

Knix model wearing the LuxeLift Bodysuit, WingWoman Contour Bra, and Leakproof French Cut in Savannah display: full

Here's the thing about shapewear: when it comes to layering essentials, it's the ultimate base layer. It makes getting dressed easier, while also making just about every outfit look smooth and seamless. It may not be the shiniest part of your OOTD, but good shapewear is the silent star behind the most put-together looks. 

For comfortable, everyday compression that enhances your natural shape (and doesn't contort it) there's the Shaper Bodysuit. This structured bodysuit provides gentle shaping where you want it—and doubles as a cute shirt under a midi skirt or denim jacket. For a more relaxed fit, opt for the LuxeLift Bodysuit

And while we're all for layering, we're firm believers you shouldn't have to layer under your shapewear. Thanks to the built-in absorbent liner of the Leakproof High Rise Shaper Short, you can go commando (and tampon-free) under your favorite fits. 

Everyday T-Shirts and Tanks 

Knix model wearing the Scoop Neck Tank in Cavassa display: full

If you're just not a dress person, we get it. There's nothing we love more than layering classic tanks and tees. 

The thing about tanks and tees is that you can curate a whole collection in your favorite colors, designs, and materials. From band t-shirts scooped from your favorite vintage shop to ultra soft modal tees or a classic white tank top, these inner layers can be easily paired with an oversized cardigan or a fitted jacket (or even under a dress if you change your mind). 

For a tank you can go braless in (and layer under spring essentials) there's the LuxeLift Tank. This wardrobe must-have features wire-free, built-in support for a seamless figure-flattering fit from (cups) A to G. 

The Perfect Jacket *DOES* in Fact Exist 

cottonbro studio/Pexels display: full

Ah, the elusive spring jacket.

You know, the one that's not too heavy so you don't sweat it out on your way to the train—but also warm enough to keep you from shivering while you read in the park. This essential outer layer may take some time to find, but once you do, it's the layering item you gravitate towards to tie all your outfits together. 

If you're still on the lookout for the perfect spring jacket, keep an eye out for materials that are lightweight, breathable, and can act as a shell layer. Consider an oversized and more relaxed fit so you can wear a sweatshirt, fleece, or other mid layer underneath without feeling too bulky.

Dreamy Denim

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We're not talking about just any denim, but light washed denim. A light wash is the absolute perfect tone of denim for spring—and, plus, the right pair of denim jeans will never fail you. 

A comfortable and well-fitted pair of jeans will take you from patio drinks at your fave bar to the laundromat on laundry day, and everything in between. They can be easily dressed up with a blazer for casual office days and effortlessly dressed down with a hoodie (or other mid layer) for Sunday morning errands. 

It's a ride-or-die outfit essential for spring—and if you're worried about wearing a light denim wash on heavy flow days, Leakproof Underwear has you covered. Sure, layers are about versatility, but absorbent period underwear may be the most important base layer of all. 

A Is for Accessories 

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When in doubt, accessorize it out. 

Spring marks the early beginnings of warm weather, but it can also be so unpredictable. Spring showers to spring rainbows in the span of 15 minutes is beautiful, but not exactly ideal. 

When it comes to peak layering, the answer you're looking for is practical accessories.

Curating a collection of accessories that can be easily added or taken off from any outfit is layering mastery—and, yes, umbrellas count as accessories in our books. Think: silky scarves, floppy hats, chic sunglasses, fun socks, and colorful claw clips. 

Even a rain jacket can double as a protective shell layer and accessory to be draped around your shoulders. When used right, accessories can be the ultimate outer layer—shielding you from cold conditions and light rain while allowing you to get creative with your style.