Four pieces do most of the work. Guest in Residence's sage striped cashmere sweater, Dries Van Noten's white poplin Casia shirt, Another Tomorrow's black satin trench and Nour Hammour's sand suede Selly skirt all layer easily.

A striped T-shirt under a classic trench is the simplest layered look. Still Here's gray striped T-shirt under Maison Mayle's tan double-breasted Eterne trench works well with Citizens of Humanity's black Ayla jeans. Jimmy Choo's brown Wilder loafers finish it.

A collar peeking out from a crew neck is a classic for a reason. Toteme's light blue poplin shirt under Khaite's cream Gemma cashmere sweater looks crisp, and McQueen's black gingham trousers add pattern. Bottega Veneta's black knot belt ties it together.

A vest adds warmth without bulk at the arms. Sacai's green twill vest over Marni's checked shirt with a scarf detail looks considered, and Róhe's navy ruched midi skirt keeps it long and lean. Alaïa's army green mesh ballet flats finish it.

A fitted turtleneck and a big scarf make a suede skirt feel ready for cold weather. Ulla Johnson's brown suede Orion skirt with Nili Lotan's ecru Keria turtleneck is a warm, tonal base. Loewe's checked wool and cashmere scarf and Bogner's dark brown suede Turin boots add texture.

Layering is about balance, not quantity. If you take one thing away, let it be to keep the thinnest layers closest to your body and the heaviest on the outside. A T-shirt, shirt or fine turtleneck makes the best base, and a vest or cardigan adds warmth without bulk. Stripes and checks are easy to mix if they share a colour. We would skip layering two chunky knits, which quickly looks bulky. Finish with a coat or a scarf, and you can peel off one piece at a time as the day warms up.