Stylishly Essential: The Basics Your Wardrobe Needs
Happy Friday my loves! The last few blogposts have been so serious lol, so let’s switch gears for this week. I wanted to give you guys a list of my Wardrobe Must-Haves in hopes to help some of you some of you build a closet you’ll love.
Let’s start with Closet Essentials, aka the foundation.
Basic Tees – I love a good white tee, whether it’s oversized, body conscious, cropped, long sleeve, or short sleeve. A white top is perfect because it goes with literally EVERYTHING. I also love a black tee as well. Most of my black tops are fitted (dancer thing, IYKYK), but just like a white top, they’re versatile. Dress them up, or dress them down. Which takes me to #2...
White Button Down – A classic white button down should be in EVERYONE’S closet. It’s perfect for layering or wearing alone, and it too can be dressed up or dressed down. If you don’t have a crisp white button-down in your closet, you’re sinning. I don’t make the rules, boo. This piece is perfect for layering or wearing alone, and it pairs with everything—sweatpants, leggings, jeans, skirts, slacks, you name it.
Black Blazer – I prefer mine oversized, but do what works for you. Blazers instantly elevate a look and double as a layering piece. Plus, you need one for when the attire calls for business casual/professional. I love playing with the term “business casual,” so I’ll wear a blazer like it’s a hoodie lol. Thrift one if you haven’t already!
Little Black Dress – A go-to LBD is non-negotiable! It doesn’t have to be little, though—just find a black dress that fits your vibe. Timeless and necessary.
Well Fitted Jeans – Read this section carefully lol. In my closet I have tons of jeans. I’m obsessed with a good piece of denim. But you must have at least one pair of black jeans, one pair of light washed jeans, and one pair of dark washed jeans. And if you want to add a little more, then a pair of grey jeans too! The fit of your jeans is up to you of course, but if you’ve been here since day one, then you know I hate skinny jeans 😂 So my closet has straight leg jeans, baggy jeans, cargo jeans, mom jeans, and anything else besides the sinful skinnies lol. Jeans go with everything. You need them. I like to get my jeans from Pretty Little Thing, Zara, Urban Outfitters, and CottonOn. American Eagle has good jeans, too!
Dress Pants – Tailored trousers are a chic alternative to jeans. Plus, you need them for business casual moments like interviews. I love styling mine with graphic tees or button-downs. I like to make all my pieces appear versatile, and you can too! It makes me feel like I’m getting my money’s worth.
Leather or Denim Jacket – To be honest, it shouldn’t be “or.” You need both 😂 Both pieces take any basic outfit to the next level; adds some edge. I don’t have to say too much. Just go get one lol. Trust me.
Neutral Color Sweater – These are for those cooler months and/or environments. Whether it’s a cardigan or a pullover, these are a cozy and stylish essential piece. They, too, can be worn with anything. I wear my sweaters with my jeans, sweatpants, leggings, shorts, skirts, allat! Do you need dat? Yeah! You do.
Now let’s talk Footwear Essentials.
Classic Sneakers – A pair of white sneakers is a must. Some people swear by Nike Air Force 1s, but I’m an Adidas Sambas girl. Choose what works for you! A good black sneaker is also essential—think Adidas, Vans, or New Balance.
Heels – Every woman needs a pair of heels. If you’ve made it this far without a pair, consider this me scolding you lol. Every woman needs at least one pair of black heels. No debate. A nude pair is also great as an alternative.
Loafers or Flats – f heels aren’t your thing, a chic loafer is a great option. I personally love loafers and style them with anything – slacks, jeans, skirts, shorts, etc.
Boots – For those colder months and environments you need a pair of boots. I have tons of boots, but a neutral-colored boot (black, brown, or grey) is essential. If you want to take it further, add a heeled boot—trust me, you’ll thank me later. And this is a safe space, so I’ll just say it: I wear boots in the summer time, too.
There are also some Essential Accessories your closet and jewelry box need.
Handbag – Start with a classic black or nude purse. These staple colors go with everything.
Jewelry – Simple gold or silver jewelry is a must. I’m a gold girly, but I keep silver on deck too. If you can, grab some mixed metal pieces for even more versatility. Jewelry is an easy way to elevate a look.
Sunnies – A solid pair of sunglasses (black or tortoise) adds to a look effortlessly and protects your eyes. Priorities, okay? Okay!
And that’s a wrap (for now) on my wardrobe must-haves! I hope this list helps you ladies build a closet full of staples that make getting dressed effortless. Here is my LTK shop link, where you can find some links to essentials. At the end of the day, style is all about making pieces work for you, so take what fits your vibe and run with it! What are some of your must-haves? Drop them in the comments! Also, fellas—if y’all feel left out, hit me with your wardrobe questions in the comments, and I got you!
Stylishly yours,
Azha Moné
