How to Apply the Fashion Rule of Thirds to Your Outfits
If you are putting together an outfit and it feels a bit off, it’s probably because the proportions aren’t right. I like to use something in fashion known as the Rule of Thirds can completely transform how you style your outfits, making you look balanced, sophisticated, and visually interesting. But what exactly is this rule, and how can you apply it in a way that feels fresh and fabulous at 40 and beyond?
The Rule of Thirds is more than just a styling trick; it’s a guiding principle that helps you dress in a way that flatters your figure by creating proportions that are pleasing to the eye. Mastering this concept will give your wardrobe an instant upgrade, and make you look stylish and chic.
Understanding the Rule of Thirds
What Is the Rule of Thirds?
Originating in art and photography, the Rule of Thirds helps create balanced compositions. In fashion, it’s about splitting your outfit into two parts — typically a top and a bottom — with a 1/3 to 2/3 ratio, rather than an even 50/50 split through the middle.
Fifty-fifty proportions makes your outfit from look “cut in half” and reads frumpy. The uneven 1/3 – 2/3 proportion of a shorter on top and longer on the bottom creates a more interesting looking outfit and has the added bonus of making you look longer and leaner!
Why It Matters Over 40
As our bodies change over time, fashion hacks that create balance become invaluable. The Rule of Thirds allows you to dress in a way that highlights your best features, giving you a streamlined silhouette that works with your natural shape.
The easiest way to apply the rule of thirds is to tuck your top into your pants!
Applying the Rule of Thirds to Different Outfits
1. Casual Looks: Jeans and Tops
When pairing jeans with a top, aim to keep the jeans or pants at about two-thirds of your overall look and the top at one-third. This combination flatters most body types, especially if you choose high-waisted jeans, which make your legs look longer and naturally create the 2/3 proportion.
Example: Pair high-waisted jeans with a shorter, cropped sweater or french tuck a top or blouse for a balanced look.
2. Workwear: Blazers and Trousers
For work settings, the Rule of Thirds still applies. Wearing a fitted blazer over a blouse tucked into high-waisted pants or a skirt creates proportional harmony.
If you prefer a longer blazer, choose one that covers about two-thirds of your body, paired with fitted, cropped trousers to keep the outfit structured and balanced. In other words 2/3 on top and 1/3 on the bottom also works.
Example: Try a longline blazer with cropped pants and a tucked-in blouse for a sophisticated and balanced ensemble.
3. Dressy Outfits: Dresses with Jackets
Even with dresses, the Rule of Thirds can enhance your look. Adding a short, cropped jacket over a knee-length or midi dress gives the illusion of longer legs by shortening the top portion of your outfit.
Example: Pair a wrap dress with a cropped denim jacket for casual occasions or a fitted blazer for more formal events. Or, wear wear a linen shirt knotted at the front like a cropped jacket with a midi length sundress.
4. Layering for Fall and Winter
Layering can easily create bulk, but the Rule of Thirds helps keep your silhouette chic. With a long coat, balance it with fitted pants and a shorter top underneath. If you’re wearing a longer top layer, ensure your pants or skirt keep the bottom two-thirds visually balanced.
Example: A thigh-length sweater paired with slim pants and ankle boots can maintain a flattering, proportional look.
Accessorizing to Enhance the Rule of Thirds
Belts for Definition
A belt is a powerful tool in applying the Rule of Thirds. By placing a belt around your waist, you can create a dividing line in your outfit, allowing you to emphasize either the top or bottom two-thirds.
Choosing the Right Lengths for Jewelry
Long necklaces help draw the eye vertically, enhancing the 1/3 to 2/3 effect, while statement necklaces can add interest to the top third of your look.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Avoiding the 50/50 Split
Wearing tops and bottoms of similar lengths can create a boxy, dated silhouette. Try to offset the proportions by opting for a longer bottom or a shorter top to create visual balance.
Ignoring Body Shape
The Rule of Thirds can be adapted to different body shapes. For pear shapes, wearing darker colors on the bottom two-thirds makes you look slimmer and taller. For apple shapes, emphasizing the top third of the body can create a flattering effect.
Applying the Rule of Thirds for Different Body Types
The beauty of the Rule of Thirds is that it works on every body type—it’s all about finding the right balance that complements your unique shape.
P.S. Find more tips on dressing for your body type here.
For Pear Shapes
Pear-shaped bodies have narrower shoulders and broader hips, so the goal here is to draw the eye upward to balance out the silhouette. One way to do this is by emphasizing the top third of your outfit. Opt for tops with statement necklines, structured shoulders, or eye-catching details like ruffles or patterns that bring attention to your upper body. A high-waisted skirt or pant on the bottom two-thirds keeps your look balanced and chic, allowing the Rule of Thirds to create a harmonious, flattering shape.
For Apple Shapes
Apple-shaped bodies often carry more volume in the midsection, so the key is to shift focus to the lower two-thirds of your outfit. Choose streamlined pants or skirts that create a vertical line, keeping the top third simple with a V-neck or slightly longer top. A tailored jacket that hits just at the hip can work wonders by elongating the bottom two-thirds of your body.
For Hourglass Shapes
If you’re an hourglass, you have natural curves that the Rule of Thirds can emphasize beautifully. Embrace your waistline by dividing your outfit at this midpoint, allowing the top and bottom portions to flow naturally. A belt or cinched-waist top can define your waistline, keeping the proportions intact and making the most of your curves. Whether you’re wearing high-waisted jeans or a fit-and-flare dress, this approach flatters your silhouette and highlights your natural shape.
For Rectangular Shapes
Rectangular body types have a more straight-up-and-down silhouette, so the goal here is to create some definition by breaking up the line. Adding interest to either the top or bottom third can give a sense of shape. Try using contrasting textures or colors to divide your outfit, like pairing a soft, cropped sweater with structured pants. You can also add layers or a belt to create a natural waistline, which helps define each third.
How the Rule of Thirds Works with Trends
While fashion trends come and go, the Rule of Thirds remains timeless. For example, high-waisted pants and cropped jackets naturally follow this rule. With trends like oversized blazers or wide-leg pants, balance is key: try tucking in your top or adding a belt for definition.
Do you try to follow the Rule of Thirds when creating an outfit?
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Enjoyed this post! Good explanations and photo presentations! A video giving more examples especially on the various body shapes would be helpful too. 👏
Absolutely! This fashion rule creates flattering silhouettes for everyone!