Creating dynamic fashion looks is something that many strive to do but often struggle with. By updating classic staples with items of unique fabric or juxtaposing textures, you can seamlessly add interest to a look. The structure of texture can vary from weave to knit, which can create very different effects. The finish of fabric provides another way to control your look within the environment. The way the light hits a texture varies depending on the finish. Whether it is stone-washed, a soft brushed finish, or puckered creping, there are plenty of options to achieve any desired effect. Texture is the look, feel, and effect created by a fabric, whether manipulated or in its simplest form. 

As the United States was one of the largest producers of cotton, it became the backbone of American fashion. The versatility of cotton is what enables fabrics to have endless structures and feels. Everything from seersucker and gauze to chino and velour came from cotton—and, of course, denim.  

Denim is one fabric with endless potential and the brand Diesel is no stranger to this, especially in their fall/winter 2022 collection. Featuring ’70 looks, Glenn Martens surely knows how to restructure denim and bring intrigue to a common material—fraying denim clinging to the models by threads, layering with various shades of distressed denim, and morphing denim to have the look and feel of fur. A couture take on one of the most accessible fabrics embodies the transformative nature of texture.

Denim is an easy fabric to incorporate because it is viewed as neutral and it works year-round. It is extremely versatile, varying from distressed and baggy to crisp and clean. Denim has been an American staple since the 1870s when Levi Strauss invented jeans. However, denim’s sturdy material doesn’t need to be reserved for jeans and jackets. Placing a texture you know in a different piece than you normally would is fun and unique. Even distressing or manipulating your own denim can be a quick way to add interest to what you already own. Items like denim shoes, bags, shirts, or earrings can be fun ways to add a simple and neutral texture to your look or make something more funky and distressed. Pairing contrasting textures makes a look eclectic and refined without being too bright and flashy. 

Texture is so often overlooked yet plays a large part in creating a jaw-dropping fashion moment. One of my recent favorite looks is a Gucci gown Dakota Johnson wore to the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party: a long ballerina pink chiffon gown with embroidered beadwork, bustling feathers, crystal-like sequins, and a drapey, feathered train, playing with weight through texture. The gown was a part of Gucci’s Pre-Fall 2022 Collection inspired by old Hollywood glam. The texture of the gown created long linear ripples that complemented the sculpted, plunging neckline. Playing with layers of sheer and opaque, the gown created a contrast that was truly captivating.

This mesmerizing look may seem out of reach, but anyone can play with texture to add a layer of luxury or interest to their day-to-day outfits. From crisp-cut blazers to drapey silk blouses, the texture of a piece can convey so much. Utilizing texture in fashion enables individuals to achieve depth and intrigue without playing with color or busy patterns.

The easiest way to incorporate new textures in your wardrobe is to find pieces you wear consistently in new materials or with unique textures, for example, if you often wear structured blazers, play around with leather, wool, or even tweed. Texture provides endless opportunities to change your look while still staying in your silhouette comfort zone. This works for every season, too. Swap your traditional cotton button-down for something like airy linen, opulent silk, or sheer chiffon. 

Another simple way to introduce new textures into your wardrobe is through accessories. Fashion-lover Chloe Shaar ‘23 explains she doesn’t give up on wearing what she wants in the winter months; she makes her clothes work for her by layering. “I think the best advice is to make every layer make sense, each one you take off should be a new outfit,” she says. Some of her favorite layering pieces have been earmuffs and leg warmers. “Anything playful to add to your outfit really makes it!” 

If you are someone who is comfortable with texture and is looking for something bolder, don’t be afraid to experiment. Faux fur and suede can complement each other wonderfully in the same look. Even silk and denim or chiffon and leather can play with elegance and edginess. Fabrics like fuzzy fleece or puffers made of smooth nylon can add fun dimension, especially when you wear the textures in unexpected pieces, like a puffer bag rather than a jacket or fluffy fleece shoes. Shaar’s favorite finishes to pair are silk and denim to create a “youthful chic” look, where “playing with mature clothing mixed with various colors” achieves her desired style.

Textured layers are not just for winter. Subversive basics are here to stay and so are knits! These styles bring tons of opportunities for layering year-round, so it is safe to say they will be translated into spring and summer looks. These have a very dimensional feel, in addition to other popular pieces like pleated skirts, sheer fabrics, or even fabrics with a liquid, metallic sheen.  Shaar hopes to see more lace, mesh, and comfortable materials in elevated looks, as these fabrics are the perfect canvas for layering and accessorizing. Other exciting, textured trends to look out for are the hyper-feminine style: puff sleeves, lots of ruffles, volume, and lace, which bring a whole different take on playing with fabric composition.

Simple or complex, combining various fabrics layers into one outfit can pique interest and enhance your personal style year-round. Create your capsule wardrobe with coordinating tones with various textiles, or embrace an eccentric style by debuting pieces with unique fabric structures. Regardless of the trend, texture layering can be incorporated. Try it out for yourself to see why layering fabric and texture is here to stay.