Designers may be sending spring down the runways right now, but groundhog Punxsutawney Phil has spoken and that toothy little prognosticator has declared that we’re going to need to lean into winter a bit more (groan). But when it comes to how to dress for our unpredictable winter weather patterns, the famous marmot is — not shockingly — a little light on suggestions.

Never fear: That’s where we come in. The art of navigating winter wardrobe woes is in the layering. And the secret sauce to mastering layering? Be playful. This season’s proportions, colors and patterns are amped up, exaggerated, bold and bright — from Nicolas Ghesquière’s joyful layering at Louis Vuitton — think striped rugby shirts paired over dresses — to Loewe’s puffed-out proportions seen in its nappa puffer bomber jacket.

Our recipe is simple. Start with a great foundation piece, such as vest or coat, add in great knits, play with accessories and season to taste!