Beat The Heat: How to layer like a pro and keep cool

Art of Layering: How to keep cool in Singapore’s heat

Nur Syazana H.

15 Jun 2015

updated the 3 May 2019 à 17:07

Don’t limit yourself to just one layer when it’s hot out. We give you some pointers on how to choose your separates to layer in perfection.

1/9
Crop it up
Keep bare shoulders and arms warm in the office with a cropped jacket that you can easily take off when heading out.
Pinterest via Jade Sheldon-Burnsed, ASV Cropped Jacket SGD352.10
2/9
The right foundation
A long, boxy cotton dress is a great base for adding more lightweight layers. Go with a dark, easy print like tartan and pile on any complementary creams, blacks and navy blues.
Pinterest via Nur Syazana H
3/9
Peek-a-boo print
Give your outermost and innermost layers some separation by adding a printed vest in the same colour family. This fringed one adds a touch of old-American ease to an otherwise edgy solid-palette ensemble.
Pinterest via Misha West, Mango Ethnic Fringe Vest SGD59
4/9
Throw on a cape
With a comfy chambray shirt underneath, there's always room for more and a long, cape cardigan would be perfect. It adds extra warmth without the body-hugging constriction of a jacket.
Pinterest via Jade Sheldon-Burnsed
5/9
Solids on prints
Take a pointer from Leandra Medine herself and add a bright leather jacket over a shirt-and-maxi combo to look effortlessly polished for a night out.
Pinterest via Deniz Yildiz, ASOS Textured Biker Jacket with Quilt Detail SGD119.50
6/9
Prep for it
The preppy sweater-over-shirt ensemble doesn't have to break you into a sweat if the sweater is paper thin and the shirt, sleeveless. Smart separates will have you layering like a pro.
Pinterest via Jade Sheldon-Burnsed
7/9
Marry texture and print
A dark print always looks polished and can be worn over and over again without looking repetitive. Layering it with a sheer texture like the black lace seen here adds a subtle Agent Provocateur vibe that might have people looking twice. Belt optional!
Pinterest via Jade Sheldon-Burnsed
8/9
Like in the 90’s
Wrapping jacket sleeves over the waist might be old-school but the hands-free factor makes it all the more appealing. Pop your outerwear back on if you're feeling chilly but be comfortable with it sitting pretty on your hips when it's hot out.
Pinterest via Misha West
9/9
Know your fabrics
Boxy ribbed sweaters might put you off, but ever considered one in silk, cotton or polyester? This two-piece set is perfect for braving warmer days, as it's sure to catch any wind breezing past for a really cooling effect.
Pinterest via Alyssa Boland

Despite the occasional showers, let’s face it, Singapore is a country that’s known for being cozy with heatwaves. And as temperatures remain a constant high, at least we know we can seek salvation from the plethora of spaces with air conditioning.

However, the constant transitioning between the heat and cold will no doubt call for some strategic layering. Combining lightweight, flowy pieces that allow plenty of airflow gives you freedom to wear multiple layers without feeling overwhelmed – and you wouldn’t melt in the heat as soon as you head outdoors either.

Take some lessons from the outfits in our gallery above and you might just be able to turn fashion into comfort, without compromising on style.

Nur Syazana H.

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