Shopping·8 min read

14 Layering Pieces If You’re Constantly Cold in the Office

layers for work
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Reformation, Quince, J.Crew, Uniqlo, Free People
September 6, 2023

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The 3pm shivers? They’re real. So we rounded up layering essentials that’ll keep you warm during the workday that can then easily transition into weekend wardrobe staples. Because in our eyes, work clothes are simply elevated basics that you should be able to wear over and over again.

Psst…for more recs to wear to work, when going out, and while at home, check out Fashion You’ll Actually Wear Week, our destination for affordable, stylish, and practical clothes.

Reformation

A cashmere collared cardigan…

One of our editors has this and she swears by it. Not only does it come in six timeless colors, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s thin enough to take to the office during spring and summer, but since it’s cashmere, it’s warm enough to slip over base layers during the colder months. You can wear it as a top on its own, or you can treat it like a traditional cardigan and wear it open with a tank, tee, or lightweight turtleneck underneath. It’s a splurge item, yes, but it’s ideal for so many different seasons that it’s worth it. ($298, Reformation)

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Rafaella

A slouchy ombre sweater…

Change up your everyday look with this subtly colorful pullover. It has a loose fit, cuffed sleeves, and will go great with a pair of jeans or streamlined trousers. It comes in a range of sizes from petites to 3X. Psst…get 20% off your first order with code RASKIMM20 until September 30. ($27.97+, Rafaella)

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J.Crew

A cotton roll-neck sweater…

PSA: This is one of J.Crew’s most iconic styles and we’re so glad they brought it back. It’s made of 100% cotton, so it’ll provide warmth without making you feel too toasty or sweaty (the girls that get it, get it). Not to mention it’s super soft, and the turtleneck style is chic enough to wear to the office, but also casual enough to wear with leggings or sweatpants on your days off. ($98, J.Crew)

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Quince

An oversized boyfriend-style cardigan…

If you haven’t shopped from Quince yet, you need to. The company is known for high-quality basics at an affordable price. This cult-favorite cardigan from them is allegedly a dupe for this Jenni Kayne cardigan (at a fraction of the price). It’s made of 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere and the ribbed detailing is ultra cozy. Don’t mind if we do. ($139.90, Quince)

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Abercrombie & Fitch

A merino wool-blend tank and cardigan set…

We love this Abercrombie set because it’s a built-in outfit you don’t have to think about. Wear the tank and the cardigan together for an easy throw-on-and-go look, or split up the pieces and wear them on their own. Both are made of merino wool to keep you warm, but they’re still pretty thin for hotter days. Three outfits in one look? It’s a yes from us. ($100, Abercrombie & Fitch)

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Free People

An oversized shacket with pockets…

While a shacket (shirt jacket) might feel like a fleeting trend, we think that it’s worth the spend because of what a compact, portable layer it is. This one from Free People is top-rated, thanks to its fleece-like material, roomy pockets, and longline silhouette. It’ll fold down and fit into your work bag easily, and will provide that extra bit of warmth on draftier days. We suggest keeping it by your desk at all times (even on WFH days). Plus, we love the extra details, from the elbow patches to the piped seams. ($128, Free People)

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Uniqlo

A classic long-sleeve cardigan…

This cocoon-style cardigan is a must-have for a reason: It goes with everything, has a no-frills, minimal style, and gets the job done. We love the 3D souffle knit from Uniqlo because it’s lightweight, so soft, and will never itch. Plus, it has a textured feel to it that you would never guess costs under $50. If you have sensitive skin, you need this. ($49.90, Uniqlo)

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Shopbop

A vintage-style sweatshirt…

Staying warm and being productive go hand in hand…and sometimes, the only thing you want is a sweatshirt. This one from Alex Mill is great for work because it has zero rips or graphic details. It’s just a simple style in a washed black color, so it’ll go with everything and still feels professional enough for the office. Our favorite part? It hits right at the waist, so it isn’t too cropped or oversized. Plus, it’s made of a mid-weight French terry fabric. ($135, Shopbop)

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Levi's

A denim chore coat…

If you’re looking for a more structured style, check out this Levi’s jacket. Because of its longline cut, it feels a little bit more office-appropriate than a traditional denim jacket. It has tons of pockets (which is a win) and will look equally great layered over dresses and sweaters. ($98, Levi’s)

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Everlane

An organic cotton crewneck sweater…

You may work in an environment where you don’t feel comfortable throwing on a sweatshirt to add some warmth. If that’s the case, we’ve got you covered (literally). This classic crewneck from Everlane is the perfect option if you want to be enveloped in warmth and get the feel of a sweatshirt, all while still looking a bit dressier. PS: This one has a boxier fit, so if you want something more tapered, we suggest sizing down. ($98, Everlane)

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Quince

A cashmere hoodie…

Hello, fancy sweatshirt. It’s a sweater; it’s a hoodie; it’s a sweater-hoodie. We love this one because it’s versatile enough to wear at your desk, in meetings, and while running errands. Plus, all the colors it comes in are so luxe, you just can’t go wrong. No matter what you pick, you’ll be looking stylish, professional, and most importantly, feeling comfortable. ($119, Quince)

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Mott & Bow

An oversized V-neck sweater…

Hear us out. Sometimes V-neck sweaters can be a little dated. We love this one because of the oversized, roomier fit. It’s made of a thin, soft cashmere for layered warmth. Add a crewneck T-shirt underneath for trendy layering or wear it on its own. Our favorite Monday look: wearing it paired with this silk skirt and boots.  ($159, Mott & Bow)

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Target

A corduroy stand-collar shacket…

Sometimes it’s nice to try something different than the regular sweater or denim jacket. This piece from Lands’ End has a rounded neckline and is made of a thick, sturdy corduroy. We love the tortoise-inspired buttons, too. Hello, fall vibes. ($54.36, Target)

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Universal Standard

A basic turtleneck…

For fall and winter months, wearing a lightweight turtleneck as a base layer is a must. This one is super stretchy and lightweight, thanks to its sustainable fine ribbed jersey material. Grab a couple of colors to keep in rotation at all times. ($72, Universal Standard)

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