The layered tops trend from the 00s has returned – here’s how to wear it

top layering trend MiuMiu

Credit: (Photo by Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images)

Fashion


The layered tops trend from the 00s has returned – here’s how to wear it

By Lauren Cunningham

10 months ago

2 min read

As with many fashion micro-trends, this 00s-inspired style started to gain traction at Paris Fashion Week in March. 


Yes, we may be famous for regularly talking about the weather, but when we’re back to layering on the puffer coats and thick-knit jumpers even though we’re approaching May, it certainly seems justified. After all, nothing quite squashes the excitement of spring like hefty splashes of rain and a breeze so biting that it’s encouraging us all to stay inside. So, understandably, we’re relying on our wardrobes to help us warm up without having to restyle our winter favourites.

Happily, another old trend is starting to seep back through to certain stylish circles that could come in handy for this exact occasion. Yet again nodding to the Y2K era alongside cool again capri pants, kitten heels and dresses over jeans, it’s the layered tops look that we’ve got our eye on.

The 00-inspired styling trick start to gain traction at Paris Fashion Week in March. Model and social media star Livia Nunes Marques created a striking collegiate look by layering a navy blue polo neck over a lighter blue checked shirt from Miu Miu. Paired with sports-like shorts and sandals it certainly leaned into the effortlessly cool look while, importantly, adding an extra layer of warmth without the bulk of a jumper or coat. 

top layering trend

Credit: (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)

Stepping into a lighterweight layering look that sits more within typical spring/summer styling, content creator Natalia Verza added colour to her outfit through layering multiple shades of vests. Kim Kardashian even adopted the look with multiple cute-meets-kitsch spaghetti strap vest tops – in black, white and leopard print – over a long-sleeved bodysuit.

So, the styling trick is clearly gaining traction. How you wear it while still feeling comfortable is the key question. Our most important tip? Try to work out why you want to lean into the layered-top look.

If you’re looking to add warmth without reaching for a coat or jumper, look for fabrics and styles first. A tight-fit long-sleeve top will act as a great base for any fashion-forward piece you’d like to layer on top, whether that’s an ultra-feminine blouse, a lace cami or an unbuttoned shirt. Creams, blacks and neutral colours will keep the above layer the main focal point while brighter, bolder shades can be used to clash or complement to add extra impact.

If style is your primary focus, then use the layering trend to play around a bit more. Pull in prints and colours to create interest and excitement with your look, and pay attention to textures too. A checked shirt will look even more eye-catching when layered underneath a white frilly sleeveless top. A chic slogan T-shirt will look much more striking when layered over a printed high-neck top to immediately draw the eye to your outfit. 

Images: Getty

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