How to Layer a T-Shirt Dress for Winter and Fall

Leggings are one way to keep rockin' a T-shirt dress through the fall.

Just because the weather is changing and there's a nip in the air doesn't mean you have to pack away that cute T-shirt dress. You can keep rockin' the style year round just by adding extra layers. A T-shirt dress flatters most figures and is so comfortable you'll reach for it again and again. The best choice for year round wear is fitted but not tight on top, with a skirt that ends above the knee or gently flares to above the widest part of your calf.

T-Shirts

If one T-shirt is good, two can be better. Add an extra layer of warmth and style with another tee. If your dress has short sleeves, slip it over a close-fitting, long-sleeved tee in a contrasting color for a two-tone look. Top a long-sleeved T-shirt dress with a short-sleeved tee, and add a belt to define your waist; for the look to work, choose a short-sleeved tee at least 6 inches longer than your belt and looser than the dress, but not baggy or sloppy. For the cutest look, combine colors that make it clear you're layering. Work a high-impact combo like black and a bright color, or keep things subtle but stylish by mixing two shades of the same color.

Jackets, Vests and Sweaters

It's a natural to slip on a topper over your T-shirt dress to ward off the chill. If your dress has long sleeves, choose a vest for warmth and style. For the best look, stay away from bulky ski vests or overly athletic styles, and pick a vest that follows your shape without clinging. If it's downright cold outside, a jacket or waist-length coat will keep you cozy. Knit wool, fleece, heavy cotton or denim all complement T-shirt material. Cardigan or crew neck sweaters are other options. Keep the hem below your waist but above the hem of the dress. Keep the style casual but fun, and pick a color that sets off your complexion while highlighting the dress.

Leggings

Goose-pimpled legs aren't attractive, so when cold weather comes, it's time to add leggings underneath your T-shirt dress. Black, opaque leggings work with just about any color dress and are flattering to most figures. If you want to stir things up, go with bright leggings that contrast with the dress. Finish off the look with casual boots, ballet-style shoes, high-top tennies or stylish flats. Leave your heels in the closet; they aren't appropriate with a T-shirt dress.

Accessories

Every outfit needs an accessory or two to complete the look. Top your dress with a colorful scarf wound round your neck and knotted in front. Choose between dangling earrings, a few stacked bracelets or a dramatic necklace, but don't wear all of them at once. T-shirt dresses are casual, so don’t overload the look with jewelry. Call attention to a trim waist with a wide belt, or detract attention with a belt that drapes a bit in front. Keep your hands snug and warm with knit or leather gloves, and top it all off with a cute knit hat.

References

• Her Campus: 20 Fabulous Ways to Layer for Fall
• You Look Fab: How to Layer Underneath Dresses