Brand Layering: The Skill of Understanding Which Labels to Combine Together

      Unless you have a signed contract with a brand, you're likely not wearing just one brand consistently. We definitely have our favorites, but it’s unrealistic to expect to source everything you need from a single place indefinitely, especially in fashion. And why would you want to? Each brand brings something unique to the table, and as my financial advisor often says, "Diversifying your portfolio is never a mistake." The same principle applies to your wardrobe.

      I'm not suggesting you abandon your preferred labels just for the sake of it. Sometimes, rather than always donning one brand, introducing another can enhance your outfit's appeal instead of detracting from it. I like to call it brand layering, a styling technique employed in fashion to avoid looking like a mannequin or a walking advertisement. There's a reason that good "What are you wearing?" segments often feature outfits comprised of at least two different labels. An outfit made entirely of one designer may sound appealing, but it rarely results in outfits that spark interest or provoke thought.

      This approach can also make a difference financially. While you can certainly buy basics like T-shirts, tank tops, and sweaters from your favorite designer brands, you’re likely spending hundreds, if not thousands, more than necessary. There are more economical options that blend well with your beloved labels without anyone needing to know they're not ultra-high-end. For instance, consider pairing an Aritzia sculpted tank with Alaïa barrel trousers. While it may not be as sculpted, it can significantly reduce your monthly spending. In the image above, my favorite stylist for all things The Row, Neelam Ahooja, has paired her comb cord necklace and Estelle bag with khaki-colored Banana Republic pants. Without her tagging the brands in her Instagram post, no one would suspect her pants aren’t as designer as her accessories, since the two labels complement each other nicely. Ahooja is a master at layering—brand layering included—and it’s evident.

      To help you finesse this skill, I’ve created a concise guide to brands that harmonize well, starting with clear pairings like Lemaire and Uniqlo, given that the former's founder, Christophe Lemaire, is the designer behind Uniqlo’s U line (a secret go-to for fashion enthusiasts seeking basics), and moving on to more specialized combinations like Miu Miu and Sandy Liang. Scroll down to begin layering your clothing brands today.

      **The Row + COS**

      If The Row represents the pinnacle of quiet luxury, COS is its contemporary counterpart. Both offer high-quality, stylized versions of wardrobe staples but also know how to incorporate color, patterns, and unique silhouettes. To achieve The Row's aesthetic without purchasing everything from them, check out COS for foundational pieces like boxy T-shirts, tailored trousers, and sandals. Then, indulge in a bag from The Row and perhaps a couple of standout items, from a sheer blouse to a lace skirt.

      **Prada + J.Crew**

      If you’ve recently splurged on a runway skirt from Prada (and by “you,” I mean me), you'll want the perfect shrunken cardigan or cashmere sweater vest to pair with it. J.Crew is the obvious choice. Or if you bought a stylish suede jacket or sporty bomber from Prada—perhaps from their latest S/S 25 collection—what should you wear with it? A silky slip skirt from J.Crew, of course. The two brands complement each other beautifully, and since you can’t buy everything from Prada, J.Crew offers an affordable yet elegant option.

      **YSL + Frankie Shop**

      If your aim this year is edgy, tailored, and sexy style, look no further than Saint Laurent paired with The Frankie Shop. Start with a bold leather bomber jacket from YSL, add sunglasses, flats, or a handbag, and then coordinate with more affordable suiting and shirts from Frankie Shop. This is your best bet to become the chicest, most admired person in any setting, guaranteed.

      **Uniqlo + Lemaire**

      This pairing is perhaps the most straightforward, given the connection between Uniqlo and Christophe Lemaire. Lemaire serves as the co-creative director of the French fashion brand Lemaire (alongside Sarah-Linh Tran) and is the artistic director of Uniqlo's U line, often featuring pieces similar to Lemaire’s but at a lower price point. Invest in a beautiful outerwear piece or trousers from Lemaire's main collection and complement your wardrobe with sturdy boxy tees from Uniqlo or a trendy sporty jacket. Everything will fit together seamlessly, I assure you.

      **Sandy Liang + Miu Miu**

      Finally, here’s one for the ladies. If you’re drawn to soft, statement colors, embellishments, and satin fabrics with a sporty edge, then curating your wardrobe with a mix of Sandy Liang and Miu Miu pieces should be your top