I’m about to share something groundbreaking with you. Something that will lift your outfit game to such a street style success that Page 6 better lookout because Bill Cunningham is on your trail. It’s the Rule of 3.
Ok ok maybe I hyped that up a bit, but I do think the Rule of 3 is going to change the way you think about dressing yourself tomorrow morning. That I promise you.
The Rule f 3:
Every killer street style look incorporates a Third Piece.
There. there it is. I said it.
Of course I believe in the glories and ease of standalone pieces like jumpsuits and dresses as seen here and here, but the truth is most street style wars are won with the Rule of 3.
I first started thinking of this concept back when I was living in San Francisco, because it’s almost always third-piece weather (think jacket, scarf, hat). Then the concept was truly realized when I moved into a new office in New York that is perpetually over air-conditioned regardless of the outside temperature. I started to think about how that third piece I threw on should be less of a necessity and more of an outfit completer.
My theory is validated by digging into street style warriors’ fashion week looks and realizing that all the killer looks are made of at least 3 pieces (not including shoes); there is always notable layering or a standout accessory like a statement bag or fur stole. These pieces that we tend to not put much thought into, or think at the store ‘yeah that plaid blazer is amazing but when am I really going to wear that?’ are actually the pieces that we should be thinking about more. You can feel comfortable purchasing the statement third piece item, by knowing it will outfit perfectly back with your 11 Closet Essentials, and really push the envelope with the outfit.
Statement pieces not for you? Not a problem at all, as the third piece can also be a chic layering item such as a sleeveless collared silk shirt that you layer under sweaters for a polished look, a plaid shirt that you tie non-chalantly around your waist, or again doubling up on one of your 11 Closet Essentials. The key is to add one piece that maybe isn’t needed for necessity, but gives the look that your outfit is more thought out and complete.
I have pulled some of my favorite 3rd piece looks for you, and you will notice there is a mix of jackets and blazers, scarves, hats, and vests that are used as the third piece. If you have been following my blog for a while you know that of course I also love easy dresses and jumpsuits, but with separates there is is so much more wardrobe longevity – mixing and matching pieces to create great everyday looks – this is what the 3rd piece is all about!
What do you think? Will you try to incorporate the 3rd piece into your next outfit? Will you invest in statement scarves and hats to take your Closet Essentials up a notch? Do you see yourself trying to apply the Rule of 3? I’m eager to hear!
