The runways already gave us the answer: this year’s most stylish way to dress is layering! Your closet basics are all you need to create new dimensions

After following this season’s fashion weeks, you’ve probably noticed that Layering is one of this year’s biggest keywords. Finding fresh ways to style basic pieces through thoughtful layering has become a fun styling challenge for fashion-forward women. If you’re starting to tire of your usual outfit formulas, take inspiration from these runway looks and rediscover what your closet has to offer.

• Related reading: Layering is the soul of fall and winter dressing: 5 layering tips to make basic pieces look stylish

Oversized shirts

Oversized shirts have always been a classic layering option. This year, try layering two shirts in different shades to create a simple yet distinct visual contrast that’s fun and practical for everyday wear. Or play with proportions by layering long and cropped knits or jackets. Just remember to create contrast with color to give the overall look more depth.

Launchmetrics Spotlight: 2026 SS Runway

Launchmetrics Spotlight: 2026 SS Runway

Sheer layers

Sheer fabrics have been a recurring feature on runways in recent seasons. This spring, designers are offering a more everyday way to wear them: as a layer in your outfit. Wear a sheer piece over a tank top, T-shirt, or pants, or underneath a shirt or cropped top. Its subtly revealing texture can easily make familiar pieces feel fresh again.

Launchmetrics Spotlight: 2026 SS Runway

T-shirts and tank tops

Ever since the Miu Miu runway, many people have been familiar with this basic formula: “thin long-sleeve top + T-shirt + tank top.” And now that many Korean women have started wearing it this way, it’s clear the look will only become more popular. You don’t need to try too many layers at once. Start with two simple pieces, then build from there. Mix and match with shirts, knit tops, or other pieces – the basics in your closet alone can create all kinds of possibilities.

Launchmetrics Spotlight: 2026 SS Runway

Polo shirts

For those who find layered T-shirts a little too casual, polo shirts may be more to their taste. With their half-placket collars, they’re like a more casual version of a button-down shirt and easy to style. They work naturally with crew-neck T-shirts or tank tops, though adding another collared piece as an inner or outer layer makes the look even more interesting.

Lightweight jackets

Although spring is warming up, temperatures are still unpredictable, so outerwear remains key to an outfit. On this year’s runways, jackets took center stage in layering. From denim jackets and blazers to trench coats, all kinds of outerwear were intentionally worn in double layers, and almost any jacket-and-coat combination can become part of the look. If you’re worried it may look too complicated, keep the rest of your outfit simple. A shirt with loose-fitting jeans is enough to keep the look clean while adding dimension.

Launchmetrics Spotlight: 2026 SS Runway

Launchmetrics Spotlight: 2026 SS Runway

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