Fashionably Layered: What’s Behind the Onion Look

Layers, layers, layers! The onion look is more than just a practical way to ward off the cold; it’s a style philosophy. It allows you to play with textures, colours and cuts and creates flexible outfits that are both functional and extremely stylish.

Casual men’s winter street fashion

Casual yet sophisticated – that’s the key to the perfect men’s outfit for winter. A good start is a high-quality, thermal vest that serves as a base. Wear a long-sleeved flannel shirt over it, ideally in a checked pattern that adds a touch of rusticity. A light woollen jumper as the next layer provides additional warmth and style. It is essential that the colour of the jumper matches and that the look is not overloaded.

Don’t forget the accessories
Complementing the layers is a well-cut winter jacket in neutral colours such as black, grey or navy blue. A jacket like this not only offers protection from the elements, but also blends seamlessly into the layering concept. A beanie hat, scarf and leather gloves round off the outfit and give it a personal touch. Trainers or sturdy boots are the shoes of choice, combining comfort and style and perfecting the urban winter look.

Alpine elegance: onion look for the piste

Moon Boot plays a key role in the „onion look“ for winter sports enthusiasts. These robust, insulating boots not only offer protection from the icy temperatures, but also add a fashionable touch. The look starts with highly functional underwear that both retains heat and transports moisture to the outside. A lightweight, breathable fleece jacket is pulled on over this to provide additional warmth without restricting mobility.

Ready for any winter weather
A weatherproof ski anorak serves as an outer layer and provides effective protection against snow and wind. Thanks to advanced material technology, these jackets are not only waterproof but also fashionably designed. Colours and patterns can stand out on the slopes: Bright tones and dynamic designs reflect the energy and flair of the alpine environment. Together with the moon boots worn under smart snow trousers, the outfit is ideal for both sporting activities and socialising afterwards.

Onion layer meets moon landing: The boots have been a cult favourite since the 1970s
Originally inspired by space travel in the 1970s, when the astronauts (among others Neil Armstrong) of Apollo 11 first set foot on the moon. The thick boots were particularly eye-catching because, together with the suit, they offered protection against the enormous temperature differences on the moon. On landing it was around 138°, but during the night the surface temperature cooled down to around -160°.

The unique construction of the Moonboots provides optimum temperature regulation and protection. Their thick, waterproof rubber sole and padded shaft effectively keep out the cold while providing a comfortable fit. Over the years, designers have repeatedly reinterpreted these shoes, modified colours and patterns and firmly anchored them in winter fashion. Today, moon boots can be seen not only on the ski slopes but also in urban winter landscapes, where they offer both functionality and fashionable flair.

Winter layer looks for women too

For women, the onion look also offers endless possibilities for getting through the cold months in style. A silk or thermal tank top serves as the first layer, ideally in a neutral colour. An elegant blouse or light jumper can be worn over it. A patterned cardigan or poncho can be added as a third layer to create extra warmth and visual interest.

For the outdoors, a chic woollen coat or trendy oversized jacket is ideal. Such pieces are not only functional but also extremely stylish. Accessories such as long gloves, a stylish beanie or a cashmere scarf add the finishing touches to the outfit. Shoes should be both comfortable and fashionable; moon boots, ankle boots or elegant high boots round off the icy-chic look perfectly.

##

Hannah Longman
Hannah Longman
From fashion school in NYC to the front row, Hannah works to promote fashion and lifestyle as the communications liaison of Fashion Week Online®, responsible for timely communication of press releases and must-see photo sets.

Follow Fashion Week Online® on Instagram for exclusive content

You may also enjoy ...

Tobi Rubinstein Honored with the Fashion Icon Award at Paris Fashion Week SS26

At Paris Fashion Week SS26, Moda Productions proudly presented the Fashion Icon Award to Tobi Rubinstein, honoring her remarkable career at the crossroads of...

Los Angeles Fashion Week Powered by Art Hearts Fashion Returns to Los Angeles, October 16-18, 2025

Los Angeles Fashion Week Powered by Art Hearts Fashion returns October 16–18, 2025, at The New Mart, following a celebrated year of international showcases...

A New Era of Conscious Luxury: Stella McCartney Closes Riyadh Fashion Week 2025

All eyes turn to the Kingdom as Stella McCartney prepares to close Riyadh Fashion Week with one of the season’s most anticipated runway moments....