Layering for style as well as function is an art, especially with unpredictable forecasts that include sheets of rain, snow and sunshine in the same day.

This winter, BCAA has made it easy to save on styles from retailers like Joe Fresh and RW&CO. More than roadside assistance, their Membership lets you save on fashion and earn CAA dollars at over 80 online partners like the Hudson’s Bay – making bundling up a breeze.

Prepare yourself for Canada’s most confusing season by trying out these seven hot layering trends that are made for winter on the We(s)t Coast.

 

Puffer jackets

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Image by: Joe Fresh

 

It may be cold outside, but puffer jackets are hot this winter. Not only do these comfy, down-filled jackets keep you toasty through gusts of snow, they also mesh well with other cozy staples. Throw one over a turtleneck, pair it with cut-off denim and top it off with a toque for the ultimate Canadian athleisure-chic. On more temperate days, you can opt for a shorter puffer; but on those cold winter nights, reach for a longer, hooded version which will be sure to keep your derriere warm.

 

Toques and head-wraps

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Image by: Joe Fresh

 

Not only can any outfit be immediately winterized with a toque or knitted headband, but the options in terms of design, colour and style are limitless. Combine these classic staples with tousled tresses and long, comfortable cardigans for a seasonal stroll through the park.

 

Long-sleeve tee under a slip dress

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Image by: RW&CO.

 

Don’t tuck away your summer slip dress just yet — as it turns out, it also makes for a great winter piece. Try donning a simple long sleeve T-shirt under your satin slip for a sophisticated style that can be easily dressed up with a leather jacket or dressed down with your go-to oversized denim jacket. Added bonus? If it gets too warm at your holiday party, you have the option of removing the tee to show off those shoulders and rock a slinkier style. 

 

Oversized scarves

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Image by: RW&CO.

 

Whether it’s structured, asymmetric, textured or all of the above, your scarf can make a real statement. Combine it with a variety of fabrics like corduroy, velvet and lace and you have the perfect addition to any outfit.

 

Wool hats

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Image by: Joe Fresh

 

Not just a trend for summer, wool brimmed hats are also the cherry on top of any winter outfit. Plus, they aren’t only stylish in the rainy streets of Victoria, Whistler and Vancouver — they also scream “backcountry adventure.” Wear with a wool turtleneck and a leather jacket for a walk through Gastown or pair with a plaid jacket for a festive hike through the Canadian wilderness.

 

Cozy knits

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Image by: Joe Fresh

 

When the coat comes off, make a statement with a versatile, textured or chunky knit. Rocking an oversized ribbed sweater overtop of a chiffon cami with a pair of pleather leggings and booties makes the perfect day-to-night outfit to take you from work meetings to holiday parties. 

 

Plaid on plaid

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Image by: RW&CO.

 

You know it’s winter in Canada when our plaid shirts transition to heavier plaid jackets, which poses the question: is too much plaid a thing? We don’t think so. From jackets, to shirts, to scarves, to even dresses, the options for layering this chilly-season design are endless.

 

Western Canada’s unpredictable climate may make getting ready in the morning challenging, but with the layering trend you really can’t go wrong. Stand out in the grey winter months with thick knit cardigans and bold plaid pieces and hold onto that last flicker of summer (a distant memory, but we’ll take it) with slip dresses that make for a sophisticated holiday party layer.