Autumn weather in the UK can be tricky to dress for. You might leave the house on a chilly morning, find yourself enjoying a bit of sunshine by lunchtime and then be shivering again before you get home.
That’s why layering works so well at this time of year. Rather than relying on one heavy jumper or coat, a few comfortable layers let you add or remove warmth as you need it. Better still, you don’t have to start again with a completely new wardrobe. Plenty of your favourite tops, shirts and trousers can carry on into autumn with the right pieces worn over them.
From thermal tops and knitwear to cardigans, fleeces and practical jackets, here’s how to build comfortable autumn outfits that are ready for whatever the British weather brings.
You’ve probably heard people talk about layering before, but there’s no need to make it complicated. A simple three-layer approach will cover most autumn days.
Your first layer is the one you wear closest to your skin. This might be a T-shirt, lightweight top, polo shirt or thermal top.
On milder days, one of the short-sleeved tops you wore throughout summer may be all you need. When there’s more of a chill in the air, swap it for long sleeves or a lightweight thermal.
The trick is to keep this layer fairly light. You want something comfortable that’ll sit neatly underneath your jumper, cardigan or fleece without bunching up.
Heatguard Pointelle Thermal Long Sleeve Vest
Also available in a short sleeve format.
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Heatguard Thermal Long Sleeve T Shirt
Long johns also available.
FROM £15
Your middle layer does most of the work when it comes to keeping you cosy. This is where jumpers, cardigans, zip-up knitwear and fleeces come in.
The best mid layers are warm enough to make a difference but still comfortable underneath a jacket. They should also be easy to remove if you’re going indoors or the afternoon turns warmer than expected.
A button-front cardigan or zip-through fleece is particularly handy because you don’t need to take it off completely to cool down. Simply undo the front and fasten it again when you feel the temperature drop.
Textured Marl Knit Zip Cardigan – Blue
Also available in Flamingo Pink, Lilac, Vanilla and Purple.
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Pegasus Wool Blend Cardigan – Forest Green
Also available in Navy.
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Your final layer is there to deal with the wind and rain. On dry, mild days, a casual jacket may be all you need. When the forecast looks less certain, choose a showerproof or waterproof style.
Try to pick an outer layer with enough room underneath for your jumper or cardigan. If a jacket already feels snug over a T-shirt, it’s unlikely to feel comfortable once you add another layer. Practical details such as a hood, secure pockets and easy zip or stud fastenings can also make a big difference when you’re out and about.
Champion Fully Waterproof Padded Jacket – Navy
Also available in Olive.
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Layering should make you more comfortable, not leave you feeling as though you can hardly move your arms.
The simplest way to avoid bulk is to make each layer slightly more substantial than the one before it. Start with a thin base, add one warm mid layer and finish with a jacket that has enough room to fit comfortably over both.
You don’t need three thick garments. In fact, a lightweight thermal top underneath a medium-weight jumper will often feel much more comfortable than wearing two chunky jumpers together.
Look for soft, flexible fabrics too. Cotton and cotton blends work well close to the skin, while knitwear and fleece provide warmth in the middle. For your outer layer, showerproof or waterproof fabrics can give you useful weather protection without needing lots of extra layers underneath.
It’s also worth checking the fit around your shoulders and upper arms. You should still be able to reach, bend and move comfortably once everything’s on.
Layering is most useful when it suits your plans for the day. Here are a few easy combinations for some of those familiar autumn outings.
Whether you’ve got an excitable puppy or a more leisurely older dog, you’ll want warmth, freedom of movement and something that’ll cope if the weather changes halfway round.
For men, start with a thermal long-sleeved top, add a zip-up fleece and finish with a waterproof jacket. Comfortable casual trousers and practical footwear will complete the outfit.
For ladies, try a long-sleeved top with a cardigan or fleece, then add a quilted or waterproof jacket. A sleeveless layer can work well on a milder day when you want to keep your body warm without covering your arms with another thick layer.
You probably won’t want to be wrapped up in several heavy layers once you’re inside the shops – especially if you’ve got a busy trip planned.
For men, a polo or shirt underneath a cardigan gives you enough warmth for indoors. Add a casual jacket for the journey there and simply take it off once you’re inside. If you’ll be parking outside the shopping centre, you might not even need the jacket.
For ladies, start with a lightweight top and cardigan, then add a quilted jacket on top. The cardigan can stay on indoors without feeling too heavy, while the outer layer can come off as soon as you warm up.
With a little consideration, layering can still look smart when you’re heading somewhere more social.
Men can wear a collared shirt underneath a V-neck jumper or cardigan, finished with a smart-casual jacket. If it’s particularly chilly, a thin thermal top can sit underneath the shirt without changing the look of the outfit.
For ladies, try a blouse or printed top with a cardigan and comfortable trousers. Add a casual coat or jacket for travelling, then remove it when you arrive. You’ll still have the cardigan if the room feels cool.
Your favourite T-shirts, polo shirts and blouses can all become autumnal base layers. A summer dress can keep going with a cardigan and jacket, while lightweight men’s shirts can be worn underneath knitwear as the weather cools.
Rather than replacing everything, look for the gaps in your wardrobe. If you’ve already got plenty of tops, perhaps a new cardigan or fleece is all you need. If you have plenty of knitwear, a practical waterproof jacket could give your outfits the outdoor protection they need.
The best part? A few versatile layers can give you plenty of different outfits while helping you to get better value from the clothes you already have.
British autumn weather might be unpredictable, but getting dressed for it doesn’t have to be. Start with a comfortable base, add a warm layer you can easily remove and keep a practical jacket ready for wind or rain. With those three simple steps, you’ll be able to adapt your outfit throughout the day without feeling too hot, too cold or weighed down by bulky clothes.
From thermal tops and knitwear to cardigans, fleeces and weather-ready jackets, Chums has comfortable, practical layers for both men and women.
Choose the pieces that work with your wardrobe now and be ready for whatever autumn brings.
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