Let me get you all in on a little secret - the power of the third piece! It’s a simple trick that can elevate any outfit to the next level.The purpose of the third piece is to tie separate elements together, making the outfit look polished, interesting, and yet seamless like you did put any effort into your look.
Essentially, the third piece could be an accessory or piece of clothing that adds excitement and personality to your outfit when everything else you’re wearing is rather simple (basic?).
The Third piece is your hero. For example, if the bottoms (pants/jeans/skirts etc.) and tops (tank/blouse/shirt etc.) are your first and second pieces, then your third piece is that next element you add such as a jacket, blazer, sweater, vest or statement accessory, so complete the whole look.
Some tips on what to do and not do with layers:
- When buying blazers or coats it’s best to start out with basics. You’ll wear a simple black, well-fitting blazer with almost everything in your closet vs. a crazy patterned crop jacket that will look great a few times a year and won’t go with nearly as much.- When going for patterned or printed blazers and jackets, you’ll get much more mileage out of a neutral color scheme.
- In the case of jackets, coats, and blazers, usually you get what you pay for. Spending a little more than you’re used to will usually pay off in the long run with a piece you can wear season after season after season.
- Leather & faux leather jackets are ALWAYS a good idea.
- Vests are becoming more and more trendy lately, especially in denim. You’ll get a lot of wear out of a leather (or faux) vest, and I highly recommend an army green “military” style vest (I just got one and I find myself wearing it non-stop!).
- In the fall/winter, scarves are a great option. Obviously they keep you warm, with the added bonus of making you look more put together. This video shows you a ton of different ways to wear a scarf so you can mix it up!
- Statement necklaces are such a great way to take an outfit to that next level. This is a great technique in the summer/spring when you don’t want to layer, but want to add interest, or that final touch to an outfit.
To recap, you can use the third piece
- as a layer (cardigan/jacket etc.)- as something to break the look (belt/scarf)
- add color (accessory/jewelry)
So what’s so special about a third piece? It adds nuance to an otherwise run-of-the-mill outfit, making you look put together. Essentially it’s a simple rule of thumb that promotes more stylish outfit choices.
