When we’re designing we don’t just take layering into consideration - we’re obsessive about it.

Meticulusly measuring every seam so that pieces slot together perfectly when worn, colour-matching separates so that nothing clashes, balancing shapes so that everything is in proportion. o

Having spent so many years on the science of layering, building a look is easy (all the work has already been done), but there are still a few key rules that I always apply.

SHAPE

The trend to invest in now is shirting with a statement sleeve. The beauty of this trend, unlike many others, is that it has real longevity - we know that a white shirt is never going to go out of style. It’s just that this season they’re more directional, with structured silhouettes and polished finishes. In the case of this Balloon Sleeve Cotton Shirt, a single faux pearl button at the collar, with matching buttons along the deep cuff. 

Big sleeves unsurprisingly call for sleeveless layers on top to accommodate, such as this Cotton Crochet Stripe Vest. We have deliberately kept the cut of the shirt slim at the shoulders specially so it can sit comfortably under vests like this one.

VERSATILITY

Another look with a crisp white shirt but in this instance, it’s the jumpsuit that’s the hero. This wide-leg, navy piece comes with an optional bandeau top that you can wear underneath for evening, or remove as I have done so that you can layer with something else for a more day-appropriate look. The result is a look that I can wear comfortably from my first meeting of the day to an evening event or drinks with friends. A khaki cargo jacket over the top adds a masculine edge (and practical layer for British evenings).

TOP NOTES

A good jacket is essential to a strong layered look and forms a key part of my everyday uniform. The Italian Wool Military Jacket has more than proved its worth in my wardrobe as it makes everything I put it on over immediately look considered and contemporary. 

Because the cut of this jacket is so sharply tailored, I like my other layers to contrast that structure with more relaxed, fluid fabrics and shapes. An open shirt over a tank top is a modern way of styling your staples this summer, and has the additional perk of being the perfect solution to the hot weather/freezing office conundrum.

CONTRAST

A lesson for layering all year round is to incorporate multiple textures into your outfit. A suede jacket with a cotton shirt and a jersey polo neck, for example. It’s a shortcut to building a luxury look and stops an outfit looking flat. As we move into autumn and winter, the floor opens up to so many options: cashmere and leather, wool and cord. 

It’s not just texture that you can contrast - look to prints and length as well. I’ve put together stripes and checks here, with a long white shirt and cropped jacket acting as a buffer in-between to stop it looking overwhelming. It also helps to keep your palette tonal and let the contrast provide the interest.