After months of joggers and leggings I’ve been trying to make myself appear a little more polished and put together. One trick I saw via Pinterest which is proving quite helpful and super easy is the third-piece rule. I didn’t come up with that term by the way so please don’t shoot the messenger.

The concept of the third-piece apparently originates from US clothing giant, Nordstrom where sales staff are encouraged to don outfits comprising of three pieces rather than two. Obviously you need something to cover both your top and bottom so that’s two pieces covered but the third piece is an extra element to ‘elevate’ your outfit in the style stakes. Throw on a blazer, an open shirt, or an amazing statement accessory and voila, apparently you’re going to be instantly more stylish. Yes I rolled my eyes a bit when I read that putting on a coat is going to finish off my outfit. And who’d have thought of carrying a bag?! Shocking behaviour. However there is some truth in adding that third piece. It’s perhaps an overthrow from the fact most maternity wear is quite drab that I’ve been pulling out my more vibrant bags and storing away my usual black totes. I’ve been dressing up a normal top and bottom with a more fancier open shirt, kimono or ‘schacket’ and have sent my blazers off to be dry cleaned.

A few of my favourite UK fashion bloggers in action sporting the look, in fact, some of them have even gone for four pieces when you check out their snappy shoes too.

Bags

Last year it was all about the large circle straw bag. (People still stop my Mum in the street to ask where hers is from). This year it seems to be about smaller versions with longer straps to wear across the body. Add in a few bright colours or even one that you can drop a flower pot in to and you’ve definitely made a statement.

STEAL THE STYLE
  • Mango Net Tote Bag
    Mango Net Tote Bag
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  • Sandro Bag
    Sandro Bag
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  • Accessorize NORTON CIRCLE BAG
    Accessorize NORTON CIRCLE BAG
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  • Acccesorize woven bag
    Accessorize Woven Bag
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  • Topshop Barbar bag
    Topshop Barbar Bag
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Blazers and Coverups

I’m still getting over missing out on a khaki schacket in Primarni for £12 but this Oasis one is a strong contender. Philipa from We Are Twinset carries off the bold Topshop polka dot jacket and it’s worth mentioning Sarah, the other half of the stylish duo easily has the best maternity wardrobe I’ve ever seen.

STEAL THE STYLE
  • Zara Embroidered Jacket
    Zara Embroidered Jacket
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  • Mango Contrast Blazer
    Mango Contrast Blazer
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  • Oasis KATE MILITARY JACKET
    Oasis KATE MILITARY JACKET
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  • Topshop Polka Dot Jacket
    Topshop Polka Dot Jacket
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Earrings and Jewellery

If I could clear up the unfortunate eczema that’s spread across my eyes and ears I’d be sporting some fancier earrings, Freddie Harell style for sure. Who doesn’t love a few baubles and tassels?

STEAL THE STYLE
  • H&M Paper straw earrings
    H&M Paper straw earrings
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  • Mango Pompom beads earrings
    Mango Pompom beads earrings
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  • Next Fringed Drop Earrings
    Next Fringed Drop Earrings
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Thoughts on the third-piece rule? Are you wearing more accessories in summer or do you prefer to stick to two simple items?