The ME+EM Signature

We’d be remiss not to talk about a ME+EM signature when delivering a lesson in layering. Our founder Clare has been dedicated to creating versatile layering pieces since the start, after realising it’s all too common for women to be expected to sacrifice warmth and comfort to look put together. That’s where the layering top comes in.

The foundation of our layering philosophy, these pieces are made to create layered looks without added bulk. That's why these tops have a clever mix of fabric weights and textures, usually a lightweight jersey body - often made from cotton or modal - combined with details like a point collar, neckline ruffles, or statement sleeves in a contrasting fabric like poplin or organza. These strategically 'on show' details are carefully placed so they remain visible when paired with their intended layering partners, such as round or V-neck knit vests. 

The Essential Vest

Truly an essential in your year-round wardrobe: the knit vest. The key to perfecting this style is making sure it has a more relaxed fit. That way, it works as a standalone top in the warmer months and has room to layer over a shirt or blouse as temperatures cool.

This season, we’ve got an extensive selection of knit vests to choose from. From soft and wispy brushed cashmere styles in warm Chestnut Brown, to rich colour pops of Rhubarb Pink and Paprika Orange. Or for a contemporary twist, look to the Contrast Panel Knit Vest in a responsibly sourced alpaca blend or the high-cut V-neckline of the merino-cashmere vest.

Perfect Pairings

The top + cardigan twin set, aka the ready-made layering partners, means half your outfit is already decided for you. That’s a single investment that offers major returns in time, energy and effort. The lightweight feel or slim-fit nature of these styles makes them adaptable choices between the changing seasons. While it’s still warm, simply drape the cardigan around your shoulders as an extra layer to combat office AC, and style the pieces under coats or blazers as it cools.

Add a pop of bold colour to a neutral trouser base with our True Scarlet Red draped neck top + cardigan co-ord, both made from a superfine merino for a lightweight, breathable feel. Or for a textural twist on the T-shirt + cardi combo, look to the Paprika Orange set that includes a rib-knit mid-sleeve tee and cardigan, both made from soft cashmere. 

For a more muted, neutral look with a contemporary edge, this season’s button-front styles are a winner. Choose between a slim-fit collared top with a matching tank underlay, or a chunky knit cropped short-sleeve jacket with a long-sleeve top pairing.

Shirt Solution

A wardrobe essential with timeless appeal, it doesn’t get much more reliable than a great shirt. The styling possibilities are endless - tucked in, left out, open over a tank or under a knit - which also means year-round capabilities.   We’re rethinking the stripe shirt this season in a new rendition of our signature Relaxed Forever Shirt with nautical blue stripes, cleverly colour-matched to the brushed cashmere Straight Knit Tee for easy layering. 

Choosing an alternative to the classic point collar silhouette is an easy win for refreshing your shirt rotation. The Impossibly Soft Feminine Shirt, aptly named after its super-soft cotton and Tencel-blend fabric, is trimmed with a ruffled stand collar and cuffs, perfect for adding extra interest when styled to peek out from blazer cuffs or knit necklines.

Indoor Outdoor Layer

On the topic of navigating cooler mornings, warm afternoons and icy office A.C., the indoor-outdoor jacket is the solution. We’re heroing the pieces that work as a jacket when layered over a tank or a T-shirt, but you can still wear them indoors without giving off ‘I’m not staying’ energy.

This season’s in-between jackets are all about texture. Take the Cord Boxy Shirt, for example, crafted from velvety cotton cord with a hint of stretch and a deep inky navy colour. Or for an equally artisanal yet modern look, the Soft Shoulder Short Cocoon Coat, shaped with a raised seam that runs cuff-to-cuff over the shoulder blades to maintain the curved shape. Our renewed take on the denim jacket comes in a collarless silhouette and dark-wash denim, trimmed with brown topstitching and frayed trims for a warmer finish.

The Faux-Layer Base

The faux-layer base is the cheat code item if you love the effortless put-together look of layering, but don’t want to wear multiple pieces. Super-soft fabrics like wool or cotton-blend jersey ensure a comfortable feel against the skin, whether you’re wearing them as a standalone style or as a light layer under tailoring or jackets.