4 Of Our Best & Warmest Layering Tricks To Optimize Your Outdoor Time This Fall

Of all the changes we've gone through in the past 1.75 years, there's one so minor you might not have even noticed it: checking the weather report with increased regularity. It makes sense — whereas in the before times we'd go door to door from home to the train/bus/car to the office then back again, these days, we're still maintaining our daily walk schedules and socializing more outside.

But what does this mean for our wardrobes? For one, we're now even more highly attuned to the exact mille-feuille of clothes needed for specific temps (more on that in a bit.) For another, we've found the key to achieving successful layering: Cuddl Duds, whose much-loved thermals, turtlenecks, leggings, and more have kept us toasty through it all — including a holiday dinner outdoors when we were sat far from any heat lamps (true story).

This philosophy served us well then, as it will this cold-weather season. So below, see four tried-and-true outfit recipes — accompanied by some sample forecasts — that'll keep you warm and stylish.

When in doubt, choose co-ords — these come in a printed thermal that'll keep you toasty and autumnally picturesque. Top the matchy-matchy affair with a neutral shacket and headband to keep the focus on that cheerful red and blue buffalo check.

For a streamlined look that's still appropriate for all-day light bopping, start with a feels-like-nothing-at-all-soft top to wear closest to your skin. Then add a heavier shirt on top and matching bottoms — both in the most unbelievably warm fleece — to make a monochromatic outer layer (very put-together). Finally, pull on gloves to keep your digits flexible — we heard there's going to be a s'mores assembly line later.

Double the tops means double the insulation against the elements, which you'll need if you're going to rise early to unearth the best produce for your tagine. (Seriously, the farmer's market can be a competitive sport sometimes.) A lightweight duster can 1) be removed if picking out the most prize-winning turnip has you heated, and 2) easily take you straight to post-harvest brunch, combined with a pair of stretchy leggings.

Here, the formula has you layering fleece on top of the softest crewneck for the ultimate in warmth and comfort. (Play with scrunching the sleeves to reveal a flash of blue, and don't forget leggings in a cloud-soft material to complete the cozy vibe.) As the cherry on top of your strategic fabric sandwiching, the outermost button-up can be peeled off to tie around your waist when you finally reach the overlook.