I work for a stylish Seattle based fashion retailer where the dress code is business casual and up. However, when I was starting out this felt like a huge task. To be business casual will I need an entirely new wardrobe? How will I afford it? Will no one respect me if I don’t look the part? Well within a week I learned the trick that everyone uses to always look dressed up no matter what.
The Third Piece Rule.
Heard of it? If you’re reading here, then its likely you already know about this fashion trick but let’s all refresh our memories. The third piece rule is what takes an outfit from ordinary to Pinterest worthy. Pants and a shirt are your first and second pieces. A third piece is an extra item that can be anything added on top. A jacket, blazer, or vest are the most common options but in the summer months statement jewelry or other accessories can also be used.
When I say everyone used this trick, I mean everyone. The stylish chick at your office, models, celebrities, and fashionistas alike all use the third piece rule because it works every time. I use it for my work outfits daily but even for casual looks, the same principle applies. Tee shirt and distressed shorts, add a long vest or blazer for an added something. Try it out and see, it will work for you too!
Have you heard of the third piece rule? Do you use it in your daily outfit selection? Let me know!
So true! I usually try to go out of my comfort zone with my third piece so I get to experiment with my wardrobe every day!
Thanks for reading Emilie! It’s seriously the best trick I’ve ever learned! I bet you create a ton of combinations you never would have tried before.
I absolutely love this rule! Works every time! Thanks for sharing!
Molly | http://www.stylemissmolly.com
It really does! Thanks for reading Molly!
I LIVE by the third piece rule. Also, when I worked at Forever 21 back in my college days, our motto was BTLA or “Bottom, top, layer, and accessory.” To this day, that’s my go-to method for creating an outfit. Another great way to look pulled together, especially when you don’t feel it, is to throw on a dress. People usually interpret dresses as requiring effort when they really don’t!
Thats a great acronym! I might start using BTLA now. Thanks for reading Darrian!
The third piece rule is a great one! I love adding a structured jacket or a heel to a really basic t-shirt and jeans combo, like you’ve done here. Gorgeous!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Same same! It’s the best way to get jeans and a tee to look like a lot more! Thanks for reading Ashley!
Ana, this outift is absolutely GORGEOUS! I am so in love!
Sarah
http://mybowsandclothes.blogspot.com/
Thanks Sarah! Glad that you liked the look!
So simple but effective! That is a great tip, and you are definitely right. Something as simple as a blazer can really change the whole outfit! Thank you for sharing 🙂
Thanks for reading Jenn! Glad that you found the 3rd Piece Rule helpful!
i am obsessed with your shoes!
Thanks Carolina! They are a favorite pair!
We learn new things everyday. I haven’t head of third rule before, but looks like I do it. It’s a good blazer for me. You look classy and beautiful. 🙂
http://missymayification.blogspot.co.uk
I need to be more intentional about the third piece rule! Winter, I have it nailed. But the warmer it gets the more I make that so optional. Sometimes I even wish teaching was a job that was business casual- every once in a while I want a push to be more chic:)
Emily
Darling, Dearest
The third piece rule is a great idea! I usually just try to add a fun pop of color into the outfits that I create.
Nina
aworldofdresses.com
This is the first time I’m hearing the Third Piece rule, and it totally makes sense! Love this tip!
xo, alice / T Y P E N U
I’ve heard of it but never really followed it but looking at my outfits, it’s always the 3rd piece that makes it a little more special.
Love your outfit here!
Thank you for being a part of TBT Fashion link up and hope to see you soon!
Alice
http://www.happinessatmidlife.com
They didn’t call it that on What Not to Wear but I think that sums up what they meant very well! Love the red pumps.