How to Layer Knitwear with Outerwear: A Modern Guide for Men

Author: Robin Blake | Layered Style, Smart Fit from Tellar.co.uk

Mastering layered style is about balance — texture, silhouette, weight, and proportion. A great knit adds warmth and depth. The right outerwear seals the look. But poor layering adds bulk, swamps your frame, or hides the structure you’ve paid for.

At Tellar.co.uk, we help you get the fit right first. With your real body measurements and smart brand size matching, you’ll know what layers work before you walk out the door. Here's your guide to layered menswear that looks effortless — and feels right all day long.

Core Layering Rules

• Lightest fabrics closest to the body: Cotton tees, shirts or Merino base layers

• Mid-layers add shape: Crew necks, quarter-zips, or knit polos

• Outer layers must accommodate all else: Leave room without excess volume

• Layering works best in neutrals: Add colour through accessories, not clashing jumpers

Layering Combos That Always Work

1. Crewneck Sweater + Wool Overcoat

Slim Merino jumper under a single-breasted overcoat. Neutral tones work best. Add wool trousers and white leather trainers or brogues. Clean, versatile and smart for city wear.

2. Half-Zip or Roll Neck + Field Jacket

A fitted half-zip adds polish and comfort. Wear it under a waxed cotton or utility-style field jacket for outdoor or pub-ready layering. Pair with dark denim or cords.

3. Shirt + Cardigan + Peacoat

A mid-weight cotton shirt and fine knit cardigan beneath a double-breasted peacoat balances structure and softness. Ideal for transitional weather and smart-casual occasions.

4. Hoodie + Gilet or Puffer Vest

Yes, it’s knitwear. A clean, neutral hoodie (think navy or heather grey) under a quilted gilet is perfect for weekend layering. Great with relaxed jeans, cargos or joggers.

5. Knit Polo + Harrington Jacket

Understated but sharp. Pair a slim knit polo with a Harrington or bomber jacket for warm evenings or transitional seasons. Add chinos or tailored joggers.

Best Brands for Knitwear & Outerwear Layering

• Sunspel – Lightweight knits and clean crewnecks

• John Smedley – Fine Merino layering pieces

• Reiss – Smart quarter-zips and knit polos

• COS – Structured bombers and minimalist overshirts

• Drake’s – Wool coats, peacoats, and unstructured outerwear

• L’Estrange London – Zip-through layering pieces and smart joggers

• Ralph Lauren – Cable knits and wool car coats

Common Layering Mistakes

• Too many thick layers: Creates bulk and restricts movement

• Visible undershirts: Distract from clean collars and necklines

• Misaligned hemlines: Inner layers longer than coats disrupt balance

• Unstructured over structured: Don’t hide clean cuts under slouchy outerwear

How Tellar Helps You Layer Smarter

You can’t layer if nothing fits right. That’s why Tellar helps you size each layer — starting with your real body measurements and matching your fit across all brands and categories.

• Measure once with our men’s guide

• See your sizing by brand before layering

• Explore our Fashion Hub for seasonal styling tips and knitwear layering content

Style is built in layers. Fit makes them work.

Tellar.co.uk – Fit first. Always in season.