The mark of many a good designer lies not just in their ability to whip up innovative (and ideally, flattering) clothes, but also in their capacity present them in interesting ways. John Galliano has his theatrical runway shows, and Giorgio Armani has red-carpet poster girls to sport his threads, but for those that don’t show on the runway, the look-book becomes their most powerful platform. (FYI, for those not in the 5,000+ group of industry insiders, look-books are outfit-by-outfit guides–often printed in book, poster, or pamphlet form–created by the designer for editors, stylists, and buyers alike.)

And while creative bindings, glitzy covers, and celebutante models are all worthy eye-candy, the look-books that always keep my attention are those that offer wardrobe styling inspiration.

Take, for example, the latest lookbook from Clu, the three year-old luxe-cotton-separates line from L.A.-based designers Seung Lee and Jin Lee. Inside their book’s matte black cover, lies 20 head-to-toe looks that offer a valuable lesson in Layered Looks 101. Thanks to the duo’s designs (and no doubt with a little help from the lookbook’s photographer Dan Martensen and stylist Natasha Royt, a Vogue and W Magazine alum) each ensemble looks fresh not frumpy—the goal of any outfit that features piled-on pieces.

Below are a few of my favorite looks, but be warned: While these styling tricks work well now (especially as winter weather shows little signs of letting up), you can’t get your hands on these particular separates till late summer. Fortunately there’s plenty of Clu’s spring pieces available now (for a shopping shortcut, click HERE). x S.C.

Get Waisted: Because the key here is the belt: A flash of patent dresses up a cropped cotton hoodie and voluminous olive dress while also streamlining the silhouette.

Block It Off: Turn any outfit into a modern, color-blocked look by pairing several monotone pieces together. (Hint: For beginners, keep a muted palette. Too many hues and it turns into an 80s nightmare.)

Tone it Down: A sporty, zippered mini suits an urban sophisticate when worn with a somber black blouse and boots.

Cinch it In: Transform casual separates into chic –and flattering–attire by cinching an a-line top into an empire-waist piece. Socks worn with platform sling-backs add a quirky cool twist.

Technorati Tags: Glam, Clu, Styling Tips, Layered Look, Natasha Royt, Dan Martensen,

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