Style 101: The Essential Third Piece

Essential Style Tips

A wardrobe essential, your third piece is the key to a polished, chic look.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll undoubtedly have heard me mention the “essential third piece” at one time or another. If you’re unfamiliar with that term, I’m referring to the third item you put on when you’re dressing that finishes or “pops” your look. In art and design, we see “threes” everywhere. The rule of thirds in art tells us how to compose a visually pleasing image. Interestingly, the same is true when it comes to dressing. To elaborate, this means you’ll need a top, a bottom, and a third piece that pulls your look together. Though a simple concept, this is excellent information that will always serve you well.

When putting your casual looks together, your third piece will range in style from cardigans, denim jackets, and wraps to ponchos, blazers, and jackets. Normally I would recommend longer cardigans; however, at this particular time, cropped (or shorter) cardigans are a huge trend. If you want some length to cover your hips, I recommend layering with a tunic-length white T-shirt or a longer crispy white shirt. This look will provide the illusion of length by covering hips and thighs for a more slender look.

Wraps are perfect for those evenings out when you don’t feel like wearing a jacket, though either will serve you beautifully. And everything you will see in the shopping I’ve pulled together for third-piece options will combine fabulously with jeans and a white T-shirt. In essence, “uniform dressing” is the magic behind helping you put yourself together easily and chicly every time you get dressed. This information will be invaluable to you on your style journey. So enjoy the journey and the shopping!

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