10 Layering Secrets You NEED in Your Life

Of course you want to reach for your fave cozy jacket when the temps start dipping, but balance the bulk on top with a shorter hemline, like the one on this sexy slip dress. Tall boots look cool while keeping you covered on crisp days.

Embroidered Georgette Dress, ÉTOILE ISABEL MARANT (Available at Net-a-Porter), $445; Jacket, IRO (Available at Net-a-Porter), $640; Wedge-Heel Boots, H&M, $59.95; Mackage Pacy Crossbody, CLUB MONACO, $395

Wear one under your most madcap blouse to watch it look suddenly crisp and completely right for autumn. (Plus, the brightness by your neckline draws attention to your face.) And wearing your jacket on your shoulders feels a little more fun and glam — even if it is denim.

Lyocell T-Shirt, H&M, $24.99; Navy Skirt, JILL SANDER (Available at Farfetch), $334.19; Printed Washed-Silk Shirt, EQUIPMENT (Available at Net-a-Porter), $270; Tights, SPANX (Available at Net-a-Porter), $42; 1969 Denim Jacket, GAP, $69.95

Top a feminine lacy look with a long printed scarf over your shoulders. Cinch it with a skinny belt and — presto — it's a top! Talk about tying it all together.

Tank, SPLENDID (Available at Net-a-Porter), $60; Guipure Lace Skirt, MAJE (Available at Net-a-Porter), $480; Super-Soft Striped Scarf, TOPSHOP, $40; Vintage Ribbon Belt, B-LOW (Available at Shopbop), $148; Straw Hat, SENSI STUDIO (Available at Matches Fashion), $144

It solves that annoying I-want-to-wear-leggings-but-I-don't-have-the-right-long-shirt problem. Add a leather jacket, top it off with a hat, and suddenly you've hit on your new uniform.

Jersey T-Shirt, ENZA COSTA (Available at The Outnet), $45; Cady Leggings, BALENCIAGA (Available at Net-a-Porter), $715; Biker Jacket, H&M, $49.95; Plaid Flannel Shirt, SEA (Available at Matches Fashion), $250; Fedora, RAG & BONE (Available at Net-a-Porter), $195

Three voluminous items are easier to pull off than you may think. The trick to nailing blousey mini shorts worn with a boxy shirt underneath a poncho coat? Lots and lots of leg.

Brushed-Cotton Tank, JAMES PERSE (Available at Net-a-Porter), $95; Butterfly Shorts, ALICE + OLIVIA, $187; Jacquard-Knit Cardigan, H&M, $34.99; Mystic Opal Amulet, BAUBLEBAR, $36

Wear a fitted one over a white button down to take the 9-to-5-staple from workwear to everywhere. (Don't bother with tucking it in.)

Collar Shirt, TOPSHOP, $68; Embellished Cropped Top, ELIZABETH & JAMES (Available at The Outnet), $132.75; Wang 002 Straight-Leg Jeans, ALEXANDER WANG (Available at Net-a-Porter), $285

Bring your favorite dresses and rompers into fall with opaque tights. Add a tailored shirt underneath and a leather or suede jacket, and think of something fun to do this Saturday, because you won't be spending it changing over your closet!

Denim Shirt, H&M, $24.99; Stretch-Silk Playsuit, MILLY (Available at Net-a-Porter), $375; Studded Skinny Belt, ALICE + OLIVIA, $165; Opaque Tights, H&M, $9.99; Suede Jacket, H&M, $299

Show a few inches of midriff. A generously-cut jacket will keep you warm even though you're exposing spots of skin here and there.

Cropped Top, MARNI (Available at Net-a-Porter), $330; Emilia Pants, EMERSON THORPE (Available at Shopbop), $198; Pilot Jacket, H&M, $39.99

It's a layering marvel in itself — the sheer overlay shows some skin while the tighter mini underneath hugs your curves. Add booties and an unstructured jacket — so chic!

Cross-Back Halter Crop Top, TOPSHOP, $20; Midi Skirt, SEE BY CHLOÉ (Available at Net-a-Porter), $425; Bomber Jacket, TOPSHOP, $105; Crystal Brûlée Necklace, J.CREW, $98;