The Third Layer: Getting Dressing For 2021 And Beyond

Whether you are working or volunteering or just getting out and about, sometimes you need to “Get Dressed”. What does that even mean in 2021, when we are just beginning to emerge from our homes? Well, more than just putting on real clothes… you need to add layers. It can mean adding a jacket or a cardigan to a top or blouse and pants. It can be a scarf, a statement necklace or great earrings. Interesting glasses or sunglasses count too. Sometimes a color can be your accessory, other times it’s an interesting pattern. And a great pair of shoes definitely qualifies! Well styled hair and nice makeup are accessories too and can go a long way to making you feel Dressed.

The more Layers you add, the more Dressed you are. That said, going overboard will make it hard for people to focus on where to look and what you have to say. Generally, I consider that three layers is the minimum to be Dressed.

Example: Patterned dress, pearl necklace and earrings, patent heels, polished hair and makeup. (6 layers)

Side Note: wearing a pattern near your face calls for good makeup, otherwise the pattern takes over.

Here are a variety of examples to give you some fresh ideas.

Have fun counting the layers.

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8 Comments

  1. Love this tip – to dress in layers. I’ve found lately that I am automatically putting a little cardigan on as I feel more put together. I love the pic of the woman in the yellow sweater with little scarf – very chic. She’s going to be my frame of reference.

    1. Oh, goodie, I love having an icon to use to spark creativity. Post a picture to show us your version!

  2. Clearly, you use different terminology than I do. I never thought of pearls as a “layer.” When I heat layering, I think of adding a vest or a jacket or a cardigan. But terminology aside, the outfits all look quite chic.

    1. Susan, you are right, layering usually means adding more clothing, one piece on top of another. Sometimes we do it for warmth, and sometimes to add interest, polish, or authority to our look.

      As Becky mentioned in her comment, traditional layers give her hot flashes, so “getting dressed up” seems difficult for her. Hopefully, with this definition, women who have issues with hot flashes, or have had their body temperature change because of menopause, thyroid or other issues will have a new perspective on how they can “layer” to achieve a more finished look.

  3. I always think I can’t layer because it causes hot flashes almost instantly….but if I can count a scarf, or necklace….what the heck! I can layer!

    1. Yes indeed. It has to do with getting “dressed up” so even lipstick counts. Think of a plain cookie or one with sprinkles or frosting, those cookies are “dressed up”.

  4. I love the third layer trick! My go to is a denim jacket. I throw it on over whatever t-shirt I’m wearing when I head out of the house. Makes me instantly feel more put together. I have a dark denim jacket and also a lighter colored denim jacket that’s a shorter length with rhinestone buttons (bling!). One or the other pretty much goes with anything I own. Both are high quality pieces that I picked up at thrift stores!

    1. Jill, you bring up a point worth making, having a go-to (or two) that are at the ready makes getting out the door so much less stressful! The fact that both of yours are denim works for your lifestyle. Good for you!

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