Inspiration Board: Natalya - Layer Love

Winter is the perfect time to play with layers and Natalya showed herself to be a master at doing just that in this photoshoot. I love how chic and polished this look is! Even though Nattie created it several years ago, it holds up flawessly well; that's classic style!  It gets its zing from the cropped jacket set over the longer button-down blouse. Natalya also added a vest (or cardigan - the look comes off essentially the same under a jacket) for an additional texture and color-block effect. She did the look with a tailored button-down - always an appropriate choice - in what looks, from the semi-sheer effect, to be a lovely, feminine voile fabric.  You can add a bit of punctuation here by going with a crisp, opaque poplin or oxford piece, or keep Nattie's sweet-meets-sophisticated vibe with a lace button-down.  Alternatively, skip the collar entirely and do this look with a super-current ruffled (or otherwise-embellished) blouse. Touches of detailing peeking out from your jacket and its sleeves look romantic and soften the refinement of the blazer. Nattie's version is essentially a suiting-type jacket that elevates the look. You could also dress it down by going with a woven cotton piece, like a military or band jacket, or denim moto jacket. A corduroy or velvet piece is another great option as well. The vest/cardigan is optional for all you hotties who don't need six thousand layers ;). Just be sure that your jacket hits at hip height or above and that your chosen top extends beyond it by at least two inches (more is fine, lots more is also fine - you can do a tunic-length top, as long as your jacket hits between your natural waist and your hip bone)...which works out quite nicely if you decide to switch Nattie's fabulous black cargo pants for leggings, as I've envisioned.  Black denim or chinos are also totally do-able. Next important decision: to close or not to close. (The jacket :)). That is the question! (I see you grimace, but really, a little Shakespeare never hurt anyone. A lot of Shakespeare, quite possibly). So, more matter...less art: closing the jacket refines and elevates the look, while leaving it open is more casual. Pick your passion 'cuz either works. (Do you suppose Shakespeare ever said " 'cuz"? You know, just among friends or whatever). Lastly, shoes! Nattie finished this off with black pointy pumps - a sagacious idea. Since it's winter and it can be a bit crisp outdoors ( *frantically tries to pop icicle off nose as wind howls through anorak, cable sweater and several thermals*), I love the idea of adding a vaguely edgy-romantic twist via lace-up booties. Iconic knee-high riding boots are a superb choice as well.