Bohemian Rhapsody ... Summer layering. Pic: Bloglovin.com
Bohemian Rhapsody … Summer layering. Pic: Bloglovin.com

When it’s real hot outside and any fabric thicker than a tissue feels like a comforter, it can be hard to break outside of your T-shirt-and-shorts mold. But what happens when that combo starts to feel oppressive in its sameness?

Many women are afraid to layer their clothes for fear of looking bigger than they actually are. While logic would lead one to believe that this claim is true, if you’ve mastered the art of layering this couldn’t be further from the truth. A perfectly layered look will compliment your curves and create the illusion of a more proportional silhouette. There are creative ways to pull off summer layering without succumbing to heat stroke and we at BandraRoad are here to show you how. Here are some styling tricks to help you layer like a street style pro.

Limit Your Layers

Light printed kimono cover ups are a great layering item of clothing. Pic: atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com
Light printed kimono cover ups are a great layering item of clothing. Pic: atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com

Limit your layers by making sure that you don’t go over board and you don’t pack too much warmth in your outfit. Ideally, stick to one or maximum two layers at a time.

Choose Light Fabrics

Throw a cotton crop top over a maxi and you get that layered  look. Pic: stylishinberilin.tumblr.com
Throw a cotton crop top over a maxi and you get that layered look. Pic: stylishinberilin.tumblr.com

Lighter fabrics are ideal for summer layering because they won’t make you sweat. Cotton and jersey are perfect, as they are breathable and they won’t trap the heat in. For a cooler, street look you can also try layering with sheer pieces like mesh and lace.

Try lace or mesh as a sleek layering trick. Pic: tumblr.com
Try lace or mesh as a sleek layering trick. Pic: tumblr.com

Go Sleeveless

Sleeveless blazers are great whenever you need to make a casual outfit formal without having to sweat it out. Pic : nystreetstylecity.tumblr.com
Sleeveless blazers are great whenever you need to make a casual outfit formal without having to sweat it out. Pic : nystreetstylecity.tumblr.com
Seeveless denim jackets are also a great option when you need to layer. Pic: bloglovin.com
Seeveless denim jackets are also a great option when you need to layer. Pic: bloglovin.com

If you’re looking to stay cool in the summer, opt to layer with jackets or vest that are sleeveless. Going sleeveless just allows you to layer up without breaking into a sweat throughout the day.

Fake it

Fake it with already layered dresses, like this boho dress. Pic: bohogirl.blogspot.com
Fake it with already layered dresses, like this boho dress. Pic: bohogirl.blogspot.com
Boho dresses are a must for that one piece layering trick.Pic: Bohogirl.blogspot.com
Boho dresses are a must for that one piece layering trick.Pic: Bohogirl.blogspot.com

If you’re not very confident about your layering skills or you just don’t have the time to find right pieces to pile on for the day, why not go for those pieces that look like separates but are actually one whole piece.

Keep the under-layers more fitted to keep your shape looking slim. Also, play with texture. It’s best to incorporate a mix of light fabrics when styling a layered look. It just takes some understanding of sequence, knowing which fabrics work best, and a willingness to switch it up. Now, it’s your turn! Layer together your best look, snap a photo, and send it to us on bandraroad@gmail.com or #BandraRoad on any social media. For more styling tips and quick fixes like these, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.