How to Master the Third Piece

Have you heard the fashion buzzword “third piece?” This simple dressing hack completely changed my outfit game back in my early days of messy buns and motherhood and wondering if I’d ever get dressed again… But what does it mean and why do you need a third? 💁🏻‍♀️

Here’s the style secret that instantly makes casual combo look cool ✨Add a third piece to your basic jeans and tee.  This means a top layer like a jacket - keep reading for other third piece examples… 

Winter is the easiest time to do this because layering makes sense in the cold. Other creative layers could be a belt, a vest, a sweater over your shoulders, a scarf, a flannel or shacket, a trench or other coat, etc. 🧥 

Want to double your outfit impact? Add a fourth piece! Layer a bigger coat over the jacket or simply add a belt or a scarf to the jacket. These accessories are adding more depth and dimension to the whole look… and that’s what makes outfits interesting!

Scroll down for outfit examples below!

Check your closet for creative layers like this shirt dress that unbuttons to become a cool duster.

Save $60 off the Anna shirt dress with code: ALEXGIFT

You can layer two third pieces like this denim jacket under a trench.

A sling bag makes a great wearable layer that can act as your third piece.

Your third piece typically works with separates like pants and a shirt or a skirt and top. But it can also refer to adding a layer to a dress - technically that's two pieces, but the same concept.