This $0 Styling Trick Will Make Fall Dressing So Easy

Spring 2022's top runway trends have been quite the fun mix, from crazy cutouts to colorblocked pieces. But somewhere in between all those eye-catching designs were also a few great styling tricks worth trying now — especially since you can recreate them using pieces you already own.

And, sure, shoving your clutch into your pants? That's arguably a bolder, more advanced move not meant for everyday wear. But plenty of designers did remind us of practical yet playful layering techniques, such as styling a tank and sleeveless dresses over long-sleeved tops.

This old school trick — which has been coming in and out of rotation for years, and definitely had a major moment around 2014 — is actually a smart way to stay warm from now until summer returns. Rather than style something on top of your outfit, like a jacket or blazer, simply add a T-shirt, button-down, or mesh top underneath, which may even provide an extra pop or color or print, too.

Perhaps this layered look was also on our minds due to recent street style photos. Outside of the very same fashion shows, influencers were already making use of this styling trick, serving up plenty of inspiration for how to wear our sweet summer dresses year-round.

Sandy Liang

Without seeing this look at Sandy Liang, it's possible we never would have thought to style an off-the-shoulder dress over a sheer printed top — but we sure do love this combo! The cutout also makes things even more interesting, and creates a balance between sweet and sexy.

Fun fact: Dean DiCriscio, who sometimes dresses Bella Hadid, styled the designs for this show.

Anna Sui

Seeing this strapless fit-and-flare over a graphic shirt definitely brought back early aughts prom memories, but at the same time, we're always down to embrace another Y2k trend — especially one that adds longevity to our trickiest pieces. The shirt makes the dress feel more casual.

Kenneth Ize

When styling metallic, we usually aim for balance — a small splash here and there, toned down with a neutral or dark shade — but this shiny, sparkly combination has us rethinking the habit. Plus, while we know this is the spring '22 collection, we're definitely tempted to try this trick for the holidays, too.

Start Small and Simple

We spotted this look during Milan Fashion Week, convincing us to style a plain white tee under our favorite black dress before things get too cold. A pair of chunky boots provide the perfect finishing touch.

Color Coordinate

Opt for a fall-inspired scheme, such as denim and shades of brown. Be sure to incorporate other on-trend details into your look — like a pair of cowboy boots, for instance — to keep things feeling fresh.

Break Out the Classics

In 2021, we might feel inclined to wear a white button-down in place of a jacket, but let's not forget that it makes a great bottom layer, too. The solid, neutral color is also a good choice when it comes to letting a loud print shine.

Make Some Smart Swaps

Once winter rolls around and we enter freezing territory, you might want to rethink the whole mesh top and T-shirt thing. Instead, layer a thin sweater or turtleneck under your sleeveless dresses, which will add some extra (and much-needed) warmth.