Greetings, Sassanistas! This month we’re going to be talking about dressing in layers. I know that Phoenix is no Denver, but it still gets nippy from time to time — especially those winter mornings. However, the difference is it doesn’t stay that way. Thanks to the abnormally strong desert sun, the day can warm up to a perfect 70 degrees. That’s why I think layers are more of a necessity here than anywhere else.

The key to mastering this trend (yes, layering is not only practical; it just happens to be trendy as well!) is cutting out the bulk. Ensuring that your layers are lightweight will save you from a lot of discomfort both early and late in the day. Not only will you be able to have free range of motion, you’ll also be able to store them without having to drag a suitcase along with you.

What’s even better is the fact that manufactures have made a point of creating lightweight apparel without sacrificing function. Simply put: You’ll still be warm. The three most efficient ways to layer include jackets, vests and leggings. I’ll show you how to rock each look.

Golf Fashion Tips: Dressing In Layers

The Jacket

Calvin Klein Performance, $74.25 We’ll start with the most obvious choice for layering — the jacket. Again, lightweight and limiting excess bulk is key here. I would avoid any type of down jacket because you’ll feel very restricted. Although fashion is a ton of fun, the first priority is the game, and you need full range of motion, in your arms especially, for your swing.Try something like the blue, or almost periwinkle, zip-up of the Calvin Klein Performance line found on Bonton.com for $74.25. It’s almost like a down vest and zip-up in one. This is a perfect compromise because the arms are still knit and allows you that range of motion. This zip-up also comes colors ranging from a classic black to a flaming, fire-engine red; it just depends on how bold your personal style is. Just remember: If you make it a statement piece, the rest of your outfit should be toned down.

Or, try something a little more classic like the Bogner jacket to the left for $499. It fits the lightweight and movable bill, and it has this classic golf plaid pattern in a neutral black, white and gray. This makes it very versatile because it will compliment any outfit.

golf fashion tips

Leggings

To me, there is nothing worse than freezing your ass (and legs) off. But a lot of times, the lower half of your body is literally left out in the cold because it’s much more difficult to layer. My solution is leggings and legwarmers.

Leggings are great because it allows you to wear that little skirt you love no matter what the weather looks like. You can try the capri-cut, like those on the bottom left from Nordstrom for $24; or strut your stuff in a loud pattern. Leggings also come in a rainbow of colors, so feel free to play away. Again, remember a bold pattern or color should be the focal point of the outfit; keep the rest toned down.

Legwarmers, unbelievably, got reincarnated from the ’80s, and I love it. They are a lot easier to take off than leggings, if need be, and can pull your whole outfit together. For instance, I have a pair that are argyle, and they’re one of my go-to items. Just another way to add in some of that classic golf style. Check out the Burlington Classic pair (bottom, center) for $21.24. They come in almost any color combination you can imagine on Hosiera.com.

Finally, I just have to show you these. Do you remember those ill-designed cargo pants that zip off into capris and shorts? Good idea, bad design. Well, I found someone who managed to get it right. They are black J Brand skinny jeans to the bottom right. I know they’re jeans but if the denim is more of a stretch blend, which most women’s jeans are moving towards, they’ll be workable. Talk about easy and stylish.

Nordstrom, $24 Nordstrom, $40 Burlington Classic Hosiera, $21.24 J Brand, $328 J Brand, $328 Capri

The Vest

Bogner, $499 Finally, we’ll talk about the vest. This section is for those of you who just can’t fathom wearing anything other than down because no matter what people say, it’s the warmest stuff out there.A full-blown down jacket is simply not going to work, but a vest will. It’s the best of both worlds. You’re warm in your down and have complete range of motion. This is another place where you can play with color. I love this hot-pink Bogner vest (to the left) for $499. It also comes in bright orange, black and white.

Or, try something less bulky, like the sleek, black-and-white Calvin Klein Performance vest (bottom left) for $79.50 Not only does it look nice, but it’s also made out of a quick dry material to keep you comfortable in the rare occasion that it rains.

Calvin Klein Performance vest, $79.50

Where do you find all this stuff you ask? Well, online, of course; but if you are one of those people who just has to try things on, you’re in luck. Calvin Klein Performance has a store at the Scottsdale Quarter, GrayHawk Golf Club carries Bogner apparel and a Nordstrom is located at Scottsdale Fashion Square.

Hopefully now you’ll know longer say that it’s just a little too chilly to hit the golf course. If you can master layering, you’ve mastered being physically comfortable (skills aside that is) while in the game. See you later, Sassanistas!

Be strong, be smart, be sassy!

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