STYLING
THE ULTIMATE WINTER LAYERING GUIDE C/O THE AW25 CAMPAIGN
By Ayis Stephen-Diver, 13 October 2025
There’s an art when it comes to cold-weather styling, and it starts with winter layering. It’s not just about keeping warm; clever layering can add depth and visual intrigue to your outfit – just look at the street-style set during Fashion Month and you’ll see luxe tailoring, bold knits, statement coats and incredible displays of colour theory – often all in one outfit.
But how do you replicate this when you have seconds to get dressed for your cold morning commute? ‘It’s all about the three-layer rule,’ says Styling Manager Megan Hogan, who’s just wrapped on the AW25, Styled by ASOS campaign. Scroll for all the details on your soon-to-be-everyday formula for dressing through the dark months – AKA your ultimate winter layering guide.
WHAT IS THE 3-LAYER RULE FOR WINTER?
ASOS DESIGN woven fluffy tassel scarf in red, £14
The traditional three-layer rule consists of a sweat-wicking base layer, an insulating mid layer and a protective outer layer. 'While this layering system was originally built for hikers and outdoor workers facing tough temps, we’ve remixed it for the modern wardrobe,' says Megan. So, what’s our version? The base layer consists of insulating chunky knits and turtlenecks; the mid layer is defined by statement jackets and coats; and the outer layer highlights your boldest accessories.
THE BASE LAYER
This is your first line of defence against the cold, so choose wisely. ‘What fabrics are best for a winter base layer?’ is a common question with endless answers, but our favourites are anything made from wool or cotton because of their comfort and warmth. Build your foundations with knitwear, turtlenecks, cardigans, fleeces, blazers and thermal tops.
Turtleneck tops
Chunky knits
A chunky knit is an essential, whether it’s in the form of a jumper or cardigan. Megan’s secret to layering them for A/W? ‘It’s all about playing with proportion and texture. Begin with lighter knits as your foundation and build up with chunkier co-ords, then anchor the look with a structured or oversized coat for contrast.’
THE MID LAYER
‘Layering outerwear elevates a look by adding depth, texture, and unexpected contrast,’ says Megan. Our winter layering system places coats as the mid-layer as opposed to the outermost layer, allowing for more flex when it comes to accessorising (more on that soon). But what’s the best type of winter jacket for layering? There are plenty – puffer jackets, faux-fur coats, longline wool styles, and even tech-inspired hiking styles. As your main shield against the cold, look for insulating, waterproof styles that can handle unpredictable rain, hail or snow.
Gorpcore jackets
‘Techy, outdoorsy jackets can be modernised by styling them in a fresh context – think performance fabrics with bold accessories and clean tailoring,’ says Megan. ‘Oversized trousers ground the silhouette, while a zebra-print clutch and angular sunglasses inject urban sophistication, transforming the utilitarian jacket into a fashion-forward look.’
Faux-fur coats
From floor-sweeping styles to cropped, boxier variations, the faux-fur coat always turns heads. They’re best served with similarly powerful pieces – think blazers, cardigans and winter boots (Chelsea boots and knee-high styles are having a moment this A/W). When in doubt, go monochrome with your base layers – they’ll act as a blank canvas for your faux-fur coat to take the spotlight.
THE OUTER LAYER
ASOS DESIGN oversized woven check tassel scarf in olive, £18
From jewellery to bags and even sunglasses, we aren’t sleeping on our accessories this season. In fact, these pieces deserve an integral spot in our layering system mainly due to their reliability and customisable nature. Don’t play it safe – snoods (scarf + hood hybrids) are making a comeback and sunglasses are the unlikely hero of the season.
Pictures: ASOS
Scarves
‘For A/W, scarves emerge as a key styling piece, polishing looks with structure and print. Luxurious silks and oversized wools layer over coats to create volume and contrast,’ says Megan. Don’t just toss them over your neck and call it a day – add some character by draping wide scarves over your chest and making them part of your silhouette. The humble scarf will never let you down.
Jewellery
‘Jewellery becomes part of the layering story,’ says Megan. ‘Expect delicate chains draped over roll-necks or statement earrings peeking out from under chunky scarves to elevate knitwear.’ The right accessories transform a simple outfit into a look. Finish your winter outfits with metallic accents – think stacked rings, silver hoops, or gold bangles – and you’ll master how to layer clothes for cold weather with finesse.
