Winter dressing is more than just staying warm; it’s an opportunity to express your unique style. I am Mr., a men’s style consultancy run by Mr Hardik Gandhi. Layering isn’t treated as a trend or a seasonal trick. It’s treated as a personal language. A way men can communicate confidence, individuality, and effortless style through thoughtful combinations.

Over the years, Hardik has guided countless Indian men toward better wardrobe decisions with one core principle: Every man is unique, and his style should reflect that. In this winter guide, he breaks down the essentials of layering, simple, practical shifts that can elevate not just how you look, but how you feel.

Layering Is Self-Expression, Not Imitation

For Hardik, layering goes far beyond functionality. It’s deeply personal.

Every man carries his own personality, subtle, bold, structured, relaxed. Layering should echo that individuality, not hide it. Instead of copying seasonal looks or chasing Instagram trends, Hardik advises men to understand what resonates with them. Maybe it’s a textured jacket, a colour they feel confident in, or a stole that becomes their winter signature.

The goal is to build layers that make you feel like the best version of yourself, not someone else.

Layering as an Art Form

To Hardik, styling is art, and layering is one of the finest strokes on that canvas.

You aren’t layering for others. You’re layering for your own comfort, satisfaction, and sense of presence. Whether it’s a waistcoat added to a formal look or a structured overshirt thrown over a T-shirt, each piece should feel harmonious. Details matter: fabric flow, colour interaction, and how each layer sits on the body all contribute to the final visual.

A well-layered outfit should feel like a story, thoughtful, balanced, and never forced.

Start With You: Lifestyle and Body Type Matter

Hardik’s styling philosophy always begins with the person in front of him.

Before recommending what to wear, he considers the client’s lifestyle, from daily routines to work environment, and their body type. For example:

• Rectangular body shape: Add structure by emphasising the shoulders and slimming the torso.
• Athletic frame: Softer layers balance width.
• Round body shape: Longline outerwear and vertical layering elongate the silhouette.

Layering should highlight your strengths, create balance, and support your lifestyle, not complicate it.

Accessories Count as Layers Too

Layering isn’t limited to jackets and sweaters.

Accessories such as scarves, stoles, neckpieces, gloves, or even a minimal brooch can be effective layering tools. They add dimension, colour, texture, and personality, sometimes enough to replace a full extra garment.

A wool scarf over a solid turtleneck, or a subtle neckpiece peeking through a shirt, can elevate an outfit without adding bulk.

Stick to Classics if You’re Just Starting

If the world of layering feels overwhelming, Hardik encourages beginners to return to the fundamentals.

Choose classic silhouettes. Timeless fabrics. Neutral colours. A well-cut navy overcoat, a camel sweater, or a white Oxford shirt layered under a cardigan; these pieces never fail. They’re easy to pair, photograph well, and stay relevant across years.

The idea is simple: Master the basics, then evolve your style.

Final Word: Layering Should Feel Effortless

Layering is one of the most powerful style tools a man can have, especially in winter. But it should never feel intimidating. The aim is effortless confidence, combining comfort with aesthetics.

As Mr Gandhi often says, “Style is not about impressing others. It’s about expressing yourself with honesty.” And layering, when done right, becomes the perfect medium for that expression.

If craftsmanship, creativity, and culture inspire you, explore more founder-led journeys. From style innovators to startup trailblazers, dive deeper into Gujarat’s creative minds with Gujpreneur.