The Art of Layering Your Favourite Winter Apparel

First published: October 23, 2026
The Art of Layering Your Favourite Winter Apparel
With the coldest months just around the corner, now is the perfect time to build your winter wardrobe. In this guide, we explore the best versatile pieces to shop for creating beautiful winter outfits. We’ll also share expert tips on layering and how natural-fibre pieces work together.

Fewer layers, Better Considered

The best winter outfit combinations balance warmth, texture and proportion without unnecessary bulk. A few well-chosen items can create different looks for changing temperatures, perfect for everything from office outfits to Christmas work parties, date nights, and weekend getaways. 

The Base Layer: Start Light

When building your winter wardrobe, start with a light base layer. Start off with a T-shirt or a shirt along with a fine-gauge knitwear and lightweight natural fibres close to the body. Focus on natural materials that are comfortable, breathable, and smooth.

WOMEN'S CASHMERE MERINO HENLEY JUMPER

£145

A soft, lightweight layer crafted from 70% merino wool and 30% cashmere for breathable warmth. With a classic button placket, regular fit and fine ribbed trims, this versatile Henley works just as well under a winter coat as it does worn on its own. An easy everyday piece for cooler days.

WOMEN'S SUPERFINE MERINO V-NECK JUMPER
£120

Women's Superfine Merino V Neck Jumper - Black-[colour]-[size]-Rise & Fall

This versatile V-neck jumper works across seasons, not just in winter, making it an easy everyday piece to keep in your wardrobe. It is a perfect bottom layer for cooler months, though, because you can easily wear it under thicker jumpers and cardigans. Plus, it’s available in even more colours to match your personal style, including Black, Buttermilk, and Deep Camel, and it's made with RWS-certified wool and OEKO-TEX®-certified yarn.

WOMEN'S SUPERFINE MERINO WOLL NECK JUMPER
£120

Women's Superfine Merino Roll Neck Jumper - Burl-[colour]-[size]-Rise & Fall

As soft as silk and as practical as wool, this 100% superfine Merino roll neck is a perfect foundational piece for your winter wardrobe. Naturally warm yet breathable, you can style it endlessly, pairing it with any cardigan, coat and trousers during the cooler months. Available in Black, Burl and Oxblood.

WOMEN'S SUPERFINE MERINO WOOL KNITTED T-SHIRT
£85

Women's Superfine Merino Wool Knitted T-shirt - Black-[colour]-[size]-Rise & Fall

If you’d prefer a knitted T-shirt for your base layer, this is one of our customer favourites. Perfect for winter outfits when you move from the cool outdoors to heated spaces and want to shed thicker outer layers. Knitted from 100% superfine merino wool and sourced for its exceptional softness and fine micron count. Available in Poppy, Black, and Buttermilk, with RWS-certified garments and OEKO-TEX®-certified yarn.

 

The Mid Layer: Build Warmth

Over your base layer, wear a jumper or cardigan in your favourite natural fibre. Cashmere, lambswool and merino wool are perfect materials for building luxurious layers. Using different weights and textures throughout your outfit is a great way to keep it balanced while maximising warmth, style, and comfort.

WOMEN'S FINEST CASHMERE HIGH NECK JUMPERr
£295

A luxurious layer for the coldest days, this relaxed high-neck jumper is crafted from 100% cashmere and has a soft, lofty handfeel. We love this effortless piece for a winter wardrobe because it’s elegant, stylish, and works for a range of occasions. 

 

WOMEN'S FINEST CASHMERE KNITTED V-NECK CARDIGAN
£195

Image 4 of 4 showing side view of woman wearing Rise & Fall's oxblood fine cashmere v-neck cardigan with black skirt.This V-neck knit, made from 100% A-grade Mongolian Cashmere, flatters the collarbone and layers easily under coats or over fine tops. Its slim yet relaxed shape balances comfort with clean lines, making it a piece you’ll reach for often this winter. 

WOMEN'S FINEST CASHMERE KNIT JACKET
£265

Combining the structure of a jacket with the softness of knitwear, this versatile layer is crafted from 100% A-grade Mongolian cashmere. Its compact knit, defined collar and gently shaped hem create a refined silhouette, while the thicker gauge adds warmth without unnecessary bulk. Wear over a fine knit or under a coat when temperatures drop.

WOMEN'S WOOL HIGH NECK JUMPER
£150

This relaxed high-neck jumper, cut in an easy everyday shape, is the perfect warm layer for cooler mornings. Knitted from 100% Lambswool in a soft single jersey for a smooth, structured handfeel. Choose from six beautiful colours including Chocolate, Black and Russet. 

WOMEN'S FINEST CASHMERE KNITTED HOODIE
£235

A relaxed take on everyday layering, knitted from 100% A-grade Mongolian cashmere for exceptional softness and lightweight warmth. Its fine-gauge knit, raglan sleeves and adjustable hood offer comfort and ease of movement, making it an ideal mid-layer for colder days. Wear under a structured coat for a relaxed contrast in texture and proportion.

The Outer Layer: Finish with Structure

Finally, finish your outfit with a heavier top layer, such as a knitted jacket or coat. Layering your lightest fabrics on the bottom and your heaviest jackets on top ensures your final outfit has varied lengths and textures that create clean, long vertical lines.

WOMEN'S CASHMERE WOOL WRAP COAT
£425

This long wrap coat brings a winter outfit together, adding an elegant outer layer over your favourite knitwear. Made from double-faced 95% wool and 5% cashmere, this coat combines softness with structure, while its column silhouette and minimal neckline keep the look streamlined. Available in Charcoal and Loam, two neutral colours that pair with any outfit.

Women's Reversible Shearling Funnel Neck Jacket
£695

Crafted from 100% sheep shearling, this reversible jacket offers two distinct finishes: soft, plush shearling and smooth suede. Its relaxed, boxy silhouette and dropped shoulders leave plenty of room for winter knitwear, while the high funnel neck adds warmth and structure. A substantial outer layer that brings texture and understated elegance to cold-weather dressing.

The Final Touch: Add An Accessory

The right accessories bring your winter layers together, adding warmth, texture and a little personality. Choose soft cashmere, insulating shearling or a generous wool blend to keep the cold at bay. A well-chosen hat, scarf or pair of gloves can make even the simplest winter outfit feel considered.

WOMEN'S CASHMERE MERINO RIBBED COLLAR
£55

A practical alternative to a scarf, this minimalist ribbed collar adds warmth without unnecessary bulk. Knitted from 70% merino wool and 30% A-grade Mongolian cashmere, it has a soft, insulating feel and a flexible fit that sits comfortably around the neck. Slip it over a fine knit or tuck it beneath a winter coat for an easy extra layer.

WOMEN'S SHEARLING HAT
£165

Made from 100% sheep shearling, this structured winter hat combines a smooth suede exterior with a soft, insulating shearling brim. Its four-panel crown and fold-up brim create a sculptural silhouette, adding texture and character to your winter layers. A warm, considered finishing touch that pairs particularly well with simple wool coats and knitwear.

WOMEN'S CASHMERE MERINO TWISTED FRINGE WRAP
£175

Generously proportioned for versatile winter layering, this oversized wrap offers softness and substantial warmth without excess weight. Its ribbed texture, distinctive mouliné yarn and knotted fringe detailing add depth to winter outfits. Drape it over your shoulders or wrap it loosely around a coat for extra warmth on colder days.

WOMEN'S FINEST CASHMER LONG GLOVES
£65

Knitted from 100% A-grade Mongolian cashmere, these long gloves offer exceptional softness and lightweight warmth. Their generous, elbow-length design provides extra coverage, while individually knitted fingers and reinforced construction ensure a comfortable, secure fit. Wear them with a shorter-sleeved jacket or beneath a winter coat for a refined finishing layer.

Layering By Occasion: Three Formulas To Follow

Not sure how to layer according to the occasion? Here is a simple formula to follow for practical outfits. 

  • Everyday outfit: Fine knit + relaxed jumper + coat.
  • Work outfit: Lightweight knit + structured cardigan or jacket + tailored outerwear.
  • Weekend outfit: Comfortable base + substantial knit + easy outer layer.

Winter Outfits FAQs

1. What are the best winter colours and textures?

Tonal neutrals, with one contrasting colour or texture, are the perfect combination for building a winter outfit. Pair relaxed shapes with more fitted layers to keep the silhouette clear and elegant.

2. Why is cashmere good for winter?

Cashmere yarn's extraordinary nature lies in its microscopic structure. Each fibre measures about 14-19 microns in diameter, roughly half the width of a human hair, creating the softness that makes cashmere so coveted. This fineness, combined with the fibre's natural bunching, creates tiny air pockets that provide exceptional insulation. Read our cashmere guide to learn more.

3. Is lambswool good for warmth?

Yes, lambswool is prized for its natural warmth, body, and durability. It’s especially well suited to heavier knits and more structured silhouettes in winter. Find out more about our lambswool jumpers here.

4. Is merino wool a good material for winter layering?

Merino wool's thermoregulatory capabilities make it an exceptionally durable winter fabric, perfect for transitional-season wear. The fibre’s natural loft creates highly sought-after, breathable insulation that keeps you warm without overheating. Learn more from our merino wool guide.

5. How to care for the best winter materials

Always follow the care label for each individual clothing item, and read our dedicated guides: 

Article Information

Author

Vicky Golding

Vicky Golding

Ecomm Content Strategist

Vicky is a seasoned content strategist with deep expertise in e-commerce. With years of experience working with premium brands, she brings a refined understanding of luxury apparel and bedding -championing quality, comfort and timeless design. Driven by a passion for connecting people with products that elevate daily life, she creates content that inspires, informs and builds lasting customer loyalty with the brands she works with.