Here are easy fashion tips to master the art of layering and styling knitwear

Knitwear is essential for winter but wearing heavy sweaters often means looking bulky The good news is that you can stay warm and stylish by using smarter layering and balancing tricks The new landscape of textures silhouettes and layering techniques offers a chance to stay warm without sacrificing style The secret is in balance and proportionThis winter fashion experts will share tips on layering and how to pair your winter wardrobe essentials with cosy knitwear for a look that is both comfortable and chicOvercoming the bulky problemThe single biggest hurdle in knitwear styling is avoiding that overtly bulky look Kirti Seth founder of Kaseeda addresses the ageold styling issue headon ldquoAh yes the iconic 100yearold dilemma How do I wear a chunky knit without looking like Irsquom smuggling winter blankets under my clothesrsquordquo She offers simple solutions1 Foundation is keyStart with a skinny barelythere base layer Think fitted tees sleek vests or your thinnest thermals The goal is simple let the outer knit drape naturally not be swallowed by the layers underneath2 Mastering proportionsBottoms Skip anything wide and dramatic Stick to straightfit trousers ribbed leggings or clean tailored pants Basically let your lower half stay chill while your top half serves dramaThe monochrome magic A monochrome skinny base instantly makes you look longer and leanerThe length game Play the ldquoshort inside long outsiderdquo gamemdashor flip it As Seth puts it Fashion girl math when the lengths balance the bulk magically disappears3 Texture play Balancing bold and classyIntroducing texture contrast is the easiest way to elevate a knit outfit but balance is crucial Seth advises Avoid pairing two extra textures together like leather with heavy ribbed knits because they fight for attentionInstead keep one texture edgy and the other classy ldquoFor example pair a bold texture like leather with a soft smooth fabric like silk A perfect outfit balancing boldness and elegance would be leather pants a silk shirt and a cashmere trench coat layered overrdquo she concludesBeyond the crewneck Pairing knits with outerwearldquoThe neckline of your knit can dramatically impact how well it pairs with outerwear creating clean lines and added heightrdquo says Seth1 Vnecks and deeper necklines look great under trench coats because they add height and clean lines2 Collared shirts work best with leather jackets offering an easy way to look sharp3 Maxi dresses pair surprisingly well with puffy jackets keeping the look balanced4 Slim turtlenecks are a classic pairing with good denims and an oversized jacketmdashalways flatteringTransitional knits Layering smart not heavierldquoThe key is layering smart not heavierrdquo says Oorja Shah cofounder of Shop Mauve These lightweight pieces are essential for providing warmth and style without the bulk of a heavy coat1 Finegauge knit poloOffers a polished more structured alternative to a basic tee or shirt The fine gauge ensures it remains breathable Wear it tucked into tailored trousers chinos wool blend pants or a midi skirt for a clean refined and breathable look Can be worn solo or with a lightweight jacket only2 Cotton vest knit tanksleeveless sweaterAdds dimension texture and core warmth without restricting arm movement Layer it perfectly over a crisp white Tshirt a longsleeve tee or a buttondown shirt This adds a preppy or modern dimension and keeps your core warm3 Slim turtleneckActs as a sleek and smooth base layer offering neck warmth and a refined line Use it as a base under a dress or wear it beneath an open unlined blazer or an oversized buttondown shirt The slim fit prevents bulkiness while maximising warmth4 Openknit sweaterProvides cozy texture and warmth while its construction ensures necessary ventilation and airflow Layer it over a simple camisole or a fitted tank top Pair with denim or wideleg trousers The open knit keeps you cosy yet ventilated making it ideal for fluctuating temperatures5 Lightweight button cardiganThe ultimate versatile layer offering adjustable warmth and multiple styling options Can be worn as a top either buttoned up and worn solo or over a thin bralettecamisole with highwaisted bottoms for a seamless transition from day to dinner Can also be draped over the shoulders or worn open over a Tshirt or slip dressThe rules of visual elongationShah highlights how the length and cuts of open knitwear are powerful tools for elongation1 A longline cardigan that hits midthigh creates a clean vertical line pair it with highwaist bottoms like denim or trousers to lengthen the legs instantly2 A Sleeveless duster vest worn over a monochrome base tonal top and bottom elongates the torso and keeps the silhouette sleek perfect for petites3 A cropped cardigan highlights the waist style it with a column skirt to extend the lower body visually4 A waterfall cardiganrsquos cascading drape draws the eye downwards finish the look with PointedToe Shoes for an extra leglengthening effectColour pattern and formal stylingStyling bold knitsShah encourages customers to let bold knits be the hero of the look ldquoBalance a vibrant cardigan or graphic knit with neutral grounded piecesmdashthink denim black trousers or a white tee If the knit has multiple colours pick one shade from the pattern and repeat it subtly in accessories or footwear to create harmonyrdquo she saysDressing up knitsThe easiest upgrade to take a basic knit like a black crewneck to a semiformal event is through texture and accessories Shah notes A black crewneck transforms instantly when tucked into structured trousers or a satin skirt finished with bold earrings or a sleek clutch Itrsquos all about combining the knitrsquos comfort with evening elements that catch the light