The most important fashion lesson: layering.

Sponsored Post: There’s no more important fashion skill to master than layering. But unless you live in Melbourne, it might not come naturally to you. For most of us, layering is a skill that must be learned.

So here’s a post about it!  And also a chance to win a $100 Metalicus voucher.  Just show us your favourite layering design in a picture after you have read the post.  The picture that gets the most thumbs up (likes) will win the voucher.  Now let me tell you more about layering

I’ll admit that I used to be a bit intimidated by Metalicus. It’s a brand I’ve always been aware of and worn from time to time but it’s been slightly off my fashion radar. This changed when I began talking to Metalicus about advertising on Mamamia and, as I like to do, did some research into the brand and how it works.

This involved going into the Chapel Street flagship store in Melbourne and surrendering to the sales assistants who showed me how to wear the range and dropping some of  my own cash on a few key pieces. I learned a lot that afternoon. So when Metalicus and Mamamia decided to join forces for this sponsored post, I decided to recreate that experience in the Metalicus QVB store where head designer Vanessa Rochman was on hand to dress me and several Metalicus sales assistants. Nicky brought the video camera, Lana took the stills for this gallery that shows how real women look wearing Metalicus.

Vanessa showed us all how best to wear the label (pushing us out of our fashion comfort zones in the process) and then I interviewed her about HOW exactly you layer.

If you can’t watch the video of me interviewing Vanessa about layering, here are her main points

• Don’t over think it, it is actually quite simple.
• Layer up for cool weather and layer down for warm weather.
• Dressing should be fun not stressful, keep it simple and stylish. If you are new to layering, start by layering tonally. Later on you can introduce mixing and matching colours.
• Don’t be scared to mix and match patterns, colours and textures together. It can work really well.
• Always go a little out of your comfort zone, you will be surprised at the compliments you will receive by looking a little bit different to usual. Try something unexpected. Always accentuate your assets.
• A splash of colour can not only lift your outfit but it can also lift your mood.
• Express your look and lifestyle through layers, use a tailored jacket over a dress for the office. After work, you can take your jacket off. Even something as simple as ruching up your jackets sleeves can change your entire look from office wear to weekend wear.
• Start with a fitted slip dress or tank dress, it gives you a nice streamlined foundation for layering. This will work over pants or under dresses.
• Try loose layers over fitted ones and remember that ruching can distract and hide whatever you want to hide!

You should check out Metalicus – you can find a list of stores here or shop online here

Now tell us: Do you layer your clothes? Do you have a style that you want to share? Send in a picture of your favourite outfit that you have put together.    If you receive the most thumbs up (likes) for your creation you will score a $100 Metalicus voucher.  Competition closes 9am Thursday 20 August 2010 so get your friends and family to vote for you!

Please click here for full disclosure details

Here are the out-takes from our morning in the Metalicus store….it was not a hard day in the office…..