Layer Up All Year Round Layering has evolved from a seasonal styling choice into an intentional, year-round wardrobe approach, driving apparel programs built around versatility, comfort and coordinated looks. By Nicole Rollender LAYERING IS NO LONGER just a cool-weather trend. Now, it’s a year-round look emphasizing dimension and creative styling, offering opportunities to build out apparel programs. “People are moving through different environments – home, office, travel, campus and events – and they want pieces that work all day,” says Michael Niemann, vice president of product at Next Level Apparel. “Layering is the default way wardrobes are built now.” Layering’s growing popularity is also tied to changing workplace habits, as companies have moved back to in-person settings, with trade shows, events and premium gifting in full force, according to Chloe Ward, marketing manager at Storm Creek, PPAI 100’s No. 28 supplier. “Layering an executive team to look cohesively at a large company conference is a great example – it creates uniformity and reinforces the brand,” Ward says. This shift is just as visible in wholesale programs as it is in consumer programs. “Buyers aren’t thinking in single items anymore,” Niemann says. “They’re thinking in systems.” This mirrors what’s happening in retail, where brands show full outfits, encouraging consumers to build looks around versatile, mix-and-match layers. The high-low method of pairing quarterzip sweaters over a fitted turtleneck base layer or a boxy cropped jacket over a performance tee makes layered outfits feel even more intentional. To meet that demand, distributors are building tiered assortments. “Layering pieces have moved from secondary to foundation in how programs are built: tees as the base, fleece as the next level The Men’s Overachiever Sweaterfleece Vest, layered over the Sightseer Short Sleeve Performance T-shirt, pairs a polished sweater-knit look with lightweight comfort. Made from recycled sweater fleece with a brushed interior, the vest has zippered pockets and a storm flap. The T-shirt offers UPF 30+ sun protection and is made with 94% recycled materials and 12 certified post-consumer plastic bottles. Storm Creek / PPAI 438091, Gold / stormcreek.com Like an upscale jean jacket, the Challenger Super Stretch Jacket, shown layered over the Varsity High Stretch Fitted Tank, is made with bluesigncertified fabric and features cuff zips and lots of pockets. The soft and stretchy tank is made with 93% recycled materials and features UPF 50+ sun protection. Storm Creek / PPAI 438091, Gold / stormcreek.com Passatic / Shutterstock.com 10 • SEPTEMBER 2026 • Essentials | In Style
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