I recently read that anyone working at a Ralph Lauren Polo store has to wear a ‘third piece’. This means pants and shirt can’t be worn solo – there has to be an extra something (i.e., the ‘third piece’), whether it be a scarf, a jacket, a vest, or a sweater over their shoulders to elevate the look and make it more polished, complete, and intentional. If they wear a dress, then two additional items must be added to ensure the outfit has a ‘third piece’.
Jo and I are strong believers in the value of the ‘third piece’ as it can take an ordinary outfit (think tee and jeans) and take it up a notch (add a blazer or a sweater around your shoulders).
We suggest the next time you get dressed and put on two ‘pieces’ (i.e., a top and a bottom), challenge yourself to throw on a third piece and see what it does to your outfit and how it makes you feel.
Here are our suggestions for ‘third pieces’ that are easy to add, and that can take an outfit up another level.
Herno Emilia Puffer Vest
We both LOVE our Emilia puffer vests, and they are great third pieces. Throw it over a tee and jeans to elevate your look while keeping your torso warm. They are lightweight yet warm, but not so warm that you need to take them off indoors. They are not cheap, but you will wear them ALL THE TIME.
Cashmere Bandana Scarf
A lightweight cashmere bandana scarf is easy to throw on with a crew neck sweater or ‘under’ a crisp button-down to add some texture and warmth to an outfit. Everlane has a gray or black option. Quince has a good low priced option as well. Crimson Cashmere has some beautiful ones that are larger and more expensive. And John Patrick has many color options that have a ‘bandana’ print on the cashmere. Silk scarves are also a great third piece to add to an outfit.
Quince Cashmere Vest
Jo recently got this cashmere vest to wear over tees or a button-down as an elevated look. Note: It runs short.
Alex Mill Sherpa Vest
This cozy vest can be worn all day long to keep you looking cool, and feeling warm! Multiple color options.
Blazer
Blazers are available at every price point, in a variety of styles, and when thrown over a dress, trousers, or jeans, they can transform a look. Here is a casual option from Athleta and the fan-favorite investment blazer from Veronica Beard. And the great thing about Veronica Beard blazers is that they sell ‘third pieces’ made specifically for the jackets – ‘fake’ dickey sweatshirts and sweaters that zip into the blazer to make it look like you have another piece on underneath, but that don’t add any actual bulk to your outfit. Genius!
Sweater to Wear Around Waist or Over Shoulders
Throw a sweater over your shoulders or tie it around your waist.
Jean Jacket
A jean jacket is SO versatile as a third piece, and they come in SO many styles and price points. They can be worn over dresses, pants, skirts…basically anything! Here is a good lower-priced option.
Button Down Shirt
Wear a button-down either open over a tee, or tie it around your waist to create a different silhouette. A denim one is great, or go for something in a stand-out color.
Emerson Fry Layering Jacket
This beautiful jacket is a terrific third piece to elevate an outfit.
Poncho
Throw a poncho on over a tee and jeans and you’ve taken it up a notch.
Statement Belt
It’s a bit debatable if a belt is really a third piece….but if it’s enough of a ‘statement’ belt then we think it can be justified.
