CLOSET CHECK!

The pain of finding the perfect outfit for an occasion especially unexpected ones is unbearable and that is why I created this list.

This is slightly different from the normal ones we know of and that is because I organized this list from experience and not from the mere thought of it.

So I know how some of these things have helped and how the others would have helped in some situations. 

Let’s all take a minute after reading to rummage through our closet(s) to know if we have all these and if not, probably add it to our shopping list.

1. JUMPSUIT

modcloth.com

cichic.com

This piece of clothing is underrated. It is quick to wear because all you have to think about is the accessories and jewellery not matching pants, skirts or tops. Designers have come up with jumpsuits that are casual, printed, formal, long, short and so on but of course it will be wise to choose a versatile one. Not to plain and not to fancy so you can easily dress it up or down to suit the occasion at hand. If you like, you can even get a short and a long one.

2. LITTLE WHITE DRESS

cottageartcreations.com

maisondecinq.com

The noise about a little black dress (LBD) is unending but a little white dress can also play the part. I use little because it doesn’t have to be made of an expensive material or have a complicated design and that makes it more comfortable to wear to any occasion which includes weddings, graduation, dates, interviews, funeral (it is sometimes allowed when the person was very old and as such the funeral is seen as a celebration of life), meetings, presentations, etc.

3. MAXI SKIRT

jenniferscouture.com

missguidedus.com

If you are the type that likes showing skin or feeling sexy, then a crop top or bralette will work with this, if not then wear your regular top and tuck in and you will still look flawless. You can also spice it up with a belt.

4. A PAIR OF SNEAKERS

 pinterest.com

gluestore.com

Perfect for running quick errands, dressing down an outfit, casual days, simple occasions and my favourite aspect is they are extremely comfortable but not so much when you get the wrong size. They are also available in denim, different prints and patterns, different styles and the fact that some are even unisex means you don’t always have to opt for the feminine ones or shop in the female section but when you decide to shop from the male section, please be extra careful with the sizes.

5. LEGGINGS

 express.com

americanapparel.com

I like wearing this with long tops or short dresses. They have this thing that makes you look sexy, funky, classy and chic all at once. If it is the thick or faux leather type, you can wear it with short tops as well but just be careful, you don’t want to be on display to people.

6. FORMAL/EVENING GOWN

 pinterest.com

vintagedancer.com

This cannot be an everyday thing but just for those special events when you want/need to be a little extra. Even a simple one speaks volumes because it is tailored to be suitable for formal events. It doesn’t have to be black or even be one colour but ensure it is such that you don’t have to buy one every time there is an occasion because we don’t want to create a hole in your pocket. 

7. PATTERNED TOP/JACKET

pinterest.com

bestproducts.com

With this outfit, I had an African print in mind but other patterns and prints are perfect to. It brings texture and colour to a dull outfit and makes you stand out more. Polka dots, horizontal and vertical stripes, checked, tiger skin, cheetah skin are a few of the prints and patterns you can try out.

8. PATTERNED SKIRT/PANTS

pinterest.com

pinterest.com

Just like the above, an African print will do justice. It virtually goes with everything but sometimes stripes, polka dots and the like do not go with every outfit, body shape or occasion.  It can be mid-thigh, midi, knee length, ankle length, pencil, flare, pleated, gathers or whatever you are comfortable with because what matters is that it’s versatile. The pants have to be tailored right or the correct size also. 

9. PONYTAIL WIG

dresslily.com

aliexpress.com

This has saved me so many times I can’t count. I’m not a fan of wigs so anytime I find myself in a tight situation, I quickly fix my hair in a bun and put this on. When your hair is in need of washing, you don’t have time to work through and style your hair because of the new growth especially when you are transitioning, your ends need trimming or your hair is lying flat and really thin because you just relaxed it then is your best friend. If your hair is 100% natural or you don’t fancy long hair, then don’t worry since there are the natural looking ones which are cute and equally elegant.  Some of you might argue that a normal wig can be the saviour in these instances but imagine if your hair is not cornrowed or flat twisted, you don’t have a wig cap to make your hair lay flat or it’s not the perfect size and your hair is too flat so it will likely keep slipping, besides its more expensive and takes more time to fix. 

 10. BACKPACK

dillards.com

jansport.com

This is not a guy thing; I mean we used backpacks in high school so it shouldn’t be weird that we both use it now. It is suitable for casual days, when you have a lot of things to carry with you and when you are staying away from home for a few days. I just realised there are very small ones that can easily replace a clutch or a shoulder bag which makes them versatile due to the various sizes and styles.

BONUS: RED LIPSTICK

stylecraze.com

charlottetilbury.com

Won’t say much about this. It turns any ordinary outfit into a sophisticated one whether day or night, just make sure the shade it right for your skin tone.  I personally prefer the scarlet,  burgundy and generally dark tones.

The emphasis of this list is versatility. I want to help you to be ready for unexpected situations and to look modish and feel confident every time you step out. You can ‘slay’ no matter your size, body shape or/and skin tone. It is just a matter of picking the right colour and size of clothing. 

 Thank You for Reading & Stay Beautiful.