Want to dress nice without trying?
Every day millions of people face their closets wondering what offend them this morning. Layering can be intimidating. But what if it didn’t have to be complex?
In fact…
It can be stupidly easy.
And all you need is something you most likely already have in your wardrobe.
Surprise… surprise. Quarter zip sweatshirts have become one of the most essential lazy garments.
Quick Preview:
- The Lazy Layering Method
- Why Quarter Zip Sweatshirts Rule
- 3 Effortless Layering Techniques
- Lazy Layering Don’ts
The Lazy Layering Method
Wait…
What is layering?
Layers are simply putting garments on top of each other.
Boom. That’s it.
Look, it makes sense. Some fashion influencers make it seem like wearing clothes is a science. But it isn’t.
All that mumbo-jumbo convinces you that being stylish takes effort. Here’s the truth…
It doesn’t.
Per a recent study, comfort is the number one priority among adults. This means most people just want to wear something that feels good.
Throwing on some basic layers is the easiest way to look put together AND be comfortable. Here’s why…
You can add or remove layers throughout the day.
So, if you’re cold, throw on an extra shirt. If you’re too hot, take one off. Layers = adjustable clothing based on your needs.
Another reason why lazy layering is amazing.
Most lazy layering staples can be worn with anything. But one garment, in particular, can take you from lazy Sunday on the couch to out-and-about in the city.
Investing in a good unisex ¼ zip sweatshirt means you always have a buffer between your tee and the outside world.
Why Quarter Zip Sweatshirts Rule
Alright alright, so quarter zips are great. But why specifically quarter zip sweatshirts?
Let’s dig into the details…
- They help with sudden temperature changes.
- They pair well with anything.
- They run true to size (majority of the styles are unisex).
- They look sharper than your average hoodie.
Quarter-zip sweatshirts are the middle ground between “blah I need to change” and “I feel like grabbing something nice.” They can easily be dressed up or down.
Fun fact…
The athleisure industry will be worth nearly $716 billion by 2032. People want to wear comfortable clothing that still looks flattering.
Scoreboard: quarter-zip sweatshirts.
These aesthetic wearable blankets are perfect for any athleisure loving individual. They’re comfortable enough to wear to the gym, but stylish enough to wear in public social settings.
3 Effortless Layering Techniques
Time to get to the good stuff…
These lazy layering hacks will help anybody look nice. No exceptions. Don’t believe me? Keep reading.
Formula #1: The Simple Layer
WHAT TO WEAR:
- Solid color t-shirt
- Quarter-zip sweatshirt
- Jeans/pants
Boom. Less than 2 minutes and you have a cohesive outfit.
By keeping the shirt underneath your quarter-zip simple, you allow your sweatshirt to shine. No crazy patterns fighting against each other.
Formula #2: Layering for Changing Weather
WHAT TO WEAR:
- Long sleeve thermal or henley
- Your favorite unisex quarter-zip.
- Lightweight jacket (denim works too)
- Dark pants
Extra layers are always your friend when mother nature can’t make up her mind. The quarter-zip provides insulation, and your outer layer will help block wind. Easy peasy.
Formula #3: Nice Boy Casual
WHAT TO WEAR:
- Collared Shirt (button up or Polo)
- Quarter-zip sweatshirt.
- Dress pants or clean jeans.
Throwing a collared shirt underneath a quarter-zip is a surefire way to level up your outfit. Pair this with some slacks or clean jeans. You’re out the door and ready to go in minutes.
Pro tip: Match the color of the collar to the color of the sweatshirt for an even cleaner look.
Lazy Layering Don’ts
Simple doesn’t equal immune to mistakes. Don’t end up a lazier faux pas with these easy-to-follow don’ts.
Don’t Wear Too Many Patterns
Colors and designs are okay. Color blocking is great.
But wearing too many crazy patterns will make your outfit look chaotic.
Always keep one solid color when wearing your quarter-zip so your outfit has something to rest on.
Don’t Forget About Fabric Thickness
Thick cotton sweater + thick flannel shirt = bulky.
Layer thinner materials on the bottom and gradually get thicker as you layer outward. Follow this rule and you’ll look slim and feel awesome.
Don’t Ignore Proportions
Baggy shirt + fitted quarter-zip sweatshirt = bad fit.
Let each layer compliment each other. Relaxed fit on the bottom, relaxed fit on top.
Same rules apply if you decide to go fitted on the bottom.
You get it.
Pay attention to how each layer looks next to one another.
Don’t Be Afraid of Neutral Colors
Sure, color can be fun. But when in doubt, neutral.
Black, grey, and navy quarter-zip sweatshirts will match almost anything you decide to throw on underneath.
Having one or two neutral unisex quarter-zip sweatshirt opens up your wardrobe to unlimited possibilities. Neutrals are the bread and butter of your layering hoodie.
Building Your Lazy Layering Wardrobe.
This whole thing sounds great! But where to start?
Here are the basic layers that every lazy individual should own.
- 3-4 plain t-shirts (various colors)
- 2 Long sleeve shirts (Casual and Collared)
- 1-2 quality quarter-zip sweatshirts
- 1 lightweight jacket.
Boom! Now you have enough layers to create hundreds of outfits.
Remember, it doesn’t matter how many you own. If you don’t like how they feel, you won’t wear them. Just make sure you like what you buy.
Layering For All Seasons
Guess what?
You can layer during the summer too!
While layering is great for staying warm, that quarter zip is perfect for those extra chilly days when your AC decides to become overly aggressive.
During spring/summer it’s your best friend for those not quite warm, not quite cold days.
Come fall and winter time, that quarter zip you’ve been living in is now a great middle layer.
With these tips, you can layer year-round.
Final Thoughts…
Getting dressed every morning doesn’t have to be a stressful chore. Simple layering with easy-to-match garments like quarter-zip sweatshirts can make your life stress-free.
Let’s recap:
- Layer thin clothing on the bottom. Thicker on top.
- Neutral colors go with everything. Invest in them.
- Treat your quarter-zip like the heavyweight champion of your layers.
- Keep the underneath shirt solid.
- Take advantage of your layers by removing them when you get too hot.
That’s literally the lazy layering hack. It works because it’s simple. And anyone can be simple.
Stop over-complicating outfits. Throw on a quality quarter-zip sweatshirt over a clean shirt and go live your life.