This week, I share the items that hit the style and comfort sweet spot for many of us. Let’s talk about the third piece today. A jacket, vest, cardigan, scarf, statement necklace, or eye-catching handbag are examples of third pieces that can pull a look together.
The looks I am resharing today are some of the most comfortable outfits I wore during the past year; they are also the looks I felt most appropriately dressed at whatever function I attended. I do not want to be over or underdressed because either situation can make you feel self-conscious. Classic simplicity always works well for me.
On all but the very hottest days of the year, I wear a slim-fitting (not tight) long sleeve tee or tank top with belted jeans or some other type of trousers, as shown above. From this foundation, I can create any look I want with accessories or the third piece of clothing. The first pieces need to be very simple and slim-fitting in the colder months because I will add a jacket or cardigan. I do not want the first layer to have any bulk at all. A sleek fitting Covered Perfectly top is the perfect first layer above and below.
Adding a long black cardigan and a scarf pulled this very casual combo together. Adding smooth, simple leather short boots and a similar bag kept things streamed lined and in harmony. All the items are basics that you could find in most stores at any price point. That’s a Covered Perfectly top in white.
When the weather heats up, but we are doing something special, I want to take it up a notch but remain comfortable. This combo was perfect for going out to dinner on one of our summer weekend getaways. The open lace sleeve tunic can be worn with the pants in the same fabric. Basic crepe pieces pack well, so they are the perfect items to take on a trip.
In summer, I often wear loose-fitting tops that flow across or stand away from my body. The tissue light Portofino shirts from Express are the perfect stand-alone top for me in hot weather. Cute sandals and a black woven bag in a simple style are the finishing touches that make this look appropriate but very comfortable for having lunch with friends or just running errands around town on a summer day.
Simple tops and bottoms that fit well and flatter your shape in colors that complement your skin tone are golden in every wardrobe. Having these pieces in your collection means that you can easily add a couple of accessories that relate, and you will look great with minimal effort.
The side by side photos above shows you precisely what I mean by wearing the colors and clothing styles that flatter your body shape and coloring. Either look is OK, but the look on the right is better for me in both color and style. These looks also show examples of using a statement handbag to bring your look to the next level.
I hope that my blog posts and tips help you to discover combinations that serve you well.
Susan, I love your blog, even though my shape and coloring are different from yours. Can you tell me what basic colors suit someone whose hair and skin tones are more golden and for whom black and white colors look drab? I want a neutral column under my jackets like you wear, but black makes the dark circles under my eyes worse and white makes me look sallow. Thanks and happy new year!
Brown, olive, russet, or any dark color that has a golden undertone will look best on you. If you have a scarf that includes all the colors you like to wear, take it with you when you are shopping to help you judge whether the new item you are considering will blend well with what you already own.
I really like the side-by-side feature that you used. The one on the left pulls you down (too much floppiness and who hasn’t done that?). The one on the right fits much better and is flatting.
I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog posts and your fashion tips and ideas. Thanks for adding wardrobe ideas that don’t look like “grandmotherly” outfits. Your look is classy, and youthful without being tacky.
Love your style! I can’t wear black around my face (I’m a summer color), so I struggle with the single color column in the winter. Wish you would do a scarf tutorial. I have a small bustline and rounded back, so I tend to look like I’ve got a weight around my neck when I wear a scarf or like a granny. I have a ton of the pashmina type, but no idea how to effectively wear them–if at all. I’m 5’6″, 135 lbs., and 66 years old.
Thanks for the blog!
Another great post, Susan. Thank you.
Susan, I love your blog, even though my shape and coloring are different from yours. Can you tell me what basic colors suit someone whose hair and skin tones are more golden and for whom black and white colors look drab? I want a neutral column under my jackets like you wear, but black makes the dark circles under my eyes worse and white makes me look sallow. Thanks and happy new year!
Brown, olive, russet, or any dark color that has a golden undertone will look best on you. If you have a scarf that includes all the colors you like to wear, take it with you when you are shopping to help you judge whether the new item you are considering will blend well with what you already own.
I really like the side-by-side feature that you used. The one on the left pulls you down (too much floppiness and who hasn’t done that?). The one on the right fits much better and is flatting.
I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog posts and your fashion tips and ideas. Thanks for adding wardrobe ideas that don’t look like “grandmotherly” outfits. Your look is classy, and youthful without being tacky.
Great tips! Thanks so much for sharing! I love the all white outfit with orange and turquoise!! It really suits you.
Thank you for your always great advice! You really show us older gals how to continue to look attractive as you always do.
I agree the side by sides are very helpful for those of us trying to visualize better. Thank you!!
Love your style! I can’t wear black around my face (I’m a summer color), so I struggle with the single color column in the winter. Wish you would do a scarf tutorial. I have a small bustline and rounded back, so I tend to look like I’ve got a weight around my neck when I wear a scarf or like a granny. I have a ton of the pashmina type, but no idea how to effectively wear them–if at all. I’m 5’6″, 135 lbs., and 66 years old.
Thanks for the blog!
Love your looks. You always look so stunning.