When you put an outfit together, there’s a simple little trick to instantly elevate your look. It’s called a third (completer) piece.
Interestingly enough, I’ve read that employees at Nordstrom, Madewell, Banana Republic and others are encouraged to wear outfits of three pieces (not including shoes). Why? Because a third piece helps them look more put together and knowledge about fashion. Crazy right?!
This idea is particularly easy to follow in fall and winter when layers are key to staying warm. But even in warmer temps like the summer, the third piece can be as simple as a necklace or hat. That third piece is truly the completer piece.
How do you do it?
Start with a basic outfit of top, bottom and shoes. Then, add on a third piece – a blazer, cardigan, vest, scarf, or even a statement accessory. Simple as that. The completer piece can be have a pattern or texture, or it can be neutral or solid. Anything goes, really.
For colder seasons like winter, I love my third completer piece to be a layer for warmth. My closet consists of a few completer pieces that get lots of wear. Here are the ones I reach for (including links to exact or similar items).
Third (Completer) Piece Ideas:
Sweater Blazer // size down
Open Cardigan // similar, similar*
Moto Jacket // similar*, similar
Jean Jacket // similar*
Leather Jacket // similar, similar*
Cargo Jacket // similar, similar*, similar*, similar*
*These items are currently on sale for Shopbop’s “Buy More, Save More” sale! Now through March 3rd, you get up to 25% off regular AND sale priced items with code GOBIG19. Check out the full details & shop here.
That third piece really helps create so many outfits that just add that “completeness” factor to it. In these two shots I used the same base – a striped tee and jeans. By switching out the third piece and shoes, the outfits transform into very different looks.
Look 1 = Sweater Blazer + Striped Tee + Denim (get 15% off here) + Booties
Look 2 = Cargo Jacket + Striped Tee + Denim (get 15% off here) + Crossbody Bag + Cognac Suede Flats
Hope this post proved to be helpful!
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[…] some basic tanks and tees that I wear year-round: on their own in warmer months, or layered with a completer piece in colder months. The other 30% rotates in and out depending on the season- like the items […]