Fashion Experts Swear by This Game-Changing Layering Technique for Cold Weather

I won’t be gliding down the ski slopes anytime soon (or probably ever, tbh), but I know a thing or two about après-ski culture—like what to wear and what to order at the lodge bar. (One hotty toddy, please!) After all, I’ve been going to my family’s second home in Vermont for 30 years. As the resident family member that stays at the bottom of the hill, I can attest that layering thermal clothes over wool mesh base layers is crucial even when not balancing on a fiberglass board or tottering through the snow on a pair of skis. And if my advice isn’t enough, I sought the expert advice of Jana Meister, a fashion stylist and influencer.

The technique is ideal for dressing for cold, winter temperatures, but the art of layering has taken on a life of its own as a fashion trend. “The winter months can be so unpredictable when it comes to temperatures, so finding layering pieces that are easily added to and removed [from] an outfit to create several looks is somewhat of a normal task when getting dressed every day—especially in the Midwest,” Meister tells Real Simple.

A mesh wool base is the key to winter layering success. Merino wool clothing is another winter fave but the breathability of mesh wool makes it a better first layer. “[It] retains heat if it gets damp from snow or rain and wicks away moisture,” Meister adds. It “also adds a chic look of luxury with a button-up coat or blazer layered over the top.”

Keep scrolling for wool mesh base layers and winter fashion picks to layer on top. I’ve included cozy faves from Amazon, Nordstrom Rack, and more with deals of up to 65 percent off.
Free People Cool Down Base Layer
Cool down and warm up with this comfortable base layer from Free People. The design features an extra cozy funnel neck to protect one of your most vulnerable parts from the windchill. Plus, this comfortable long-sleeve is made of a moisture-wicking blend of 41 percent wool and 7 percent elastane that’s stretchy despite its overall second-skin fit. Best of all (IMHO) are the shirt’s thumbhole cuffs, which IFYKYK.

Ookie & Lala Faux Wool Scarf Coat
Available in dark charcoal, camel, or camel plaid, this on-sale wool scarf coat—lovingly known as a “scoat”—is giving Cameron Diaz-in-The-Holiday vibes. Yes, the matching scarf is attached, and while this winter wardrobe staple is made of the faux stuff, the ultra chic piece is guaranteed to keep you warm so long as you’re rocking a wool mesh base layer underneath.

Thermajane Long Johns Thermal Underwear
A No. 1 best-seller with more than 35,100 five-star ratings on Amazon, this body-hugging two-piece retains heat so well thanks to its inner fleece lining. Grab it in 13 different colors and two fun patterns to add a little fun to your winter outfit. You’ll especially love its moisture-wicking abilities and the fabric’s four-way stretch design that fits snugly while allowing you to move freely—on the mountain or otherwise.

Stay warm all winter long with even more mesh wool base layers (and what to pair over them) below.

Free People Moonlight Wool Blend Base Layer T-Shirt
Merino.Tech Merino Wool Base Layer Set
Adeptwool Merino Wool Base Layer John Set

Danish Endurance Merino Wool Long Sleeve
Removable Scarf Wool-Blend Coat
Merino Wool Button Sleeve Mockneck Top