Like a Boss, essentials continuity

So good to have you back! As promised in (blog post 1 like a boss), I will dedicate this blog for the gap out essential clothing pieces of both Men and Women. Providing you with straight forward tips of what “I wish I knew”.

Ever felt stuck, constantly running late and the one thing that comes to mind is “this is frustrating” or “I have nothing to wear” pulling everything out of your closet and end up wearing the least likable piece to rush out that door? I feel you.

Having style seemed impossible keeping up with trends. Until one day while I was scrolling though TikTok, I was inspired by how clothes made those content creators feel some kind of way” and it hit me! Well of course it does, clothes play a major role in your life, with you on your vacations, through seasons, triumphs and distresses; just about every moment of everyday - through it all, the good and bad. You make memories, statements and leave remarkable first impressions and inspirations. Everything in life has a root to it, and with clothing we say - Basics.

Basics should not be deemed boring; basics are the foundation of your wardrobe it is the easily layered over /under pieces. Those life saviors, when styled correctly, brings about countless outfit possibilities that can never go wrong. How about we dive into what I think are wardrobe essentials.

Women’s Essentials 

1. SOLID Tee/Tanks:

The basic t-shirt usually in Crew or V neck, whether you like it slim fit or slightly relaxed – nothing can replace that staple piece for a classic and chic look.

2. SOLID Body Suit:

The tucked in look and the underlayer life savior. Soft and comfortable for easy and relaxed pairing. This piece just can’t miss the mark with all bottoms, tops and cover ups!

3. SOLID Dress Shirt/Top:

Whether they were oversized blouses, Oxfords or buttoned down loose fit shirt, guaranteed to give you that posh look regardless if they were dressed as they are or layered over your pick of a body suit for casual or smart instances.

4. SOLID Bottoms:

PLENTY! However, we are sticking to ‘must haves’ that serves you throughout the year. perfect fit, breathable motion enabling materials and comfort are your foundation

• A pair of Skinny/Slim fit Jeans
• Slim fit Chinos (shorts and trousers)
• Pencil skirt or/& midrise wrap skirt

5. SOLID LBD:

For a happier wardrobe and a women’s best friend you - little black dress. Wear it on its own or couple it up. Which ever pieces you add to it, from footwear to accessories it is more than capable to elevate this darling and shape your style according to your mood and occasion!

6. SOLID Outerwear:

Personally, foundational favorites - enough to get you through all the time, you will need

• Cardigan – tapered or slim buttoned up
• Blazar - either oversized or structure according to your preference
• Leather Jacket
• Trench Coat

 “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and remove one accessory.” – Coco Channel

Agree! Not because accessories are insignificant or unfashionable, but because they should elevate your look rather than overcrowd it.

Let us get right into our essential accessories!

7. Leather Card holder:

I don’t know what it is whether its transformation or a replacement to wallets, but I’m definitely pro making space in your hand-bag! Especially if the one you own has a clip on the back for your money besides the card compartments. Imagine!

8. SOLID Leather belt:

To uplift your regular Tee and Jeans look. Perhaps a thinner one to tack on over a dress or your chinos. Polished, vintage and chic!

9. SOLID Handbags:

Signature of sophistication with any outfit whether you are into vintage chic, a little more functional and structured, how about occasion based, regardless of what it is try using your bags as color blockers to either break/brighten a mono color outfit or to make a statement. The versatile handbag carried on the arm crook or use it as a crossbody with its adjustable strap for a more casual look.

“Shoes transform your body language and attitude. They lift you physically and emotionally.” — Christian Louboutin

10. Classic Footwear:

Well yes of course! Keynote to consider “material, comfort and harmony”. Those might as well be your favorite.

• Classic pump heels
• Sneakers
• Espadrilles or ballerinas
• Sandal (wedge pumps or flats)
• Slippers
• Knee and ankle high leather boots

 

Men’s Essentials

“Clothes mean nothing until someone lives in them.” – Marc Jacobs

I have always thought, men are quite lucky, their fashion is constantly simple, chic (regardless of the occasion) and effortless!

1. Elevated Tee:

The basic t-shirt (Crew or V-neck), slim fit to perfection or slightly relaxed – an irreplaceable piece for men, whether it is dressed up or down – gym, outing or smart casual you got yourself a solid foundation nothing can replace a staple piece for a classic and chic look.

2. Polo:

With one of those iconic pieces, you get to have more outfits if you had none! Especially if you were to create a capsule. Just remember, if the collar is all rickety and looks like it might start whirling inward/outward – deal breaker!

3. Dress Shirts and Buttoned downs:

Well, recognize that staple pieces depend on… styling! Those dress shirts (oxfords or tailored) can be your workweek go to, though if you put them on without layering (tie, blazer or sweater) you got yourself a casual wear and vice versa. Buttoned down shirts; I believe primarily is a man’s sustainable choice, should you wear them for brunch, to the beach or for a laid back smart casual evening – how could you go wrong?

4. Mid-layer / Outerwear:

I, for one, think these can never fail. Modern men’s choice, laid back, chic, warm and versatile.

• Vest
• Leather Jacket
• Blazer
• Pea coat
• Sweater

5. Bottoms:

A great high-quality pair of those can go a long way. Yet Again, each can be styled differently and according to the occasion.

• Jeans (Skinny or/and Slim-Fit)
• Chinos (Slim-Fit)
• Shorts (Slim-Fit)

“The difference between style and fashion is quality.” – Giorgio Armani

6. Footwear:

Both; classic, casuals that you are going to be reaching out for on everyday bases -according to the occasion.

• Leather Loafers
• Sneakers
• Chelsea / Chukka boots
• Slides

 

“Every man should have a magnifying mirror. If you look good magnified, you are set to go” – Tom Ford

Gentlemen, I have to say your accessories are just impeccable, whatever you do, stick to relevance. Your clothing lines constantly extends simplicity in the details, transform it with accessories that elevates your outfit to a whole different dimension.  

7. Wrist leather watch

It was said that wearing a watch, gives out the impression that you value time, I say it is an amazing outfit fine-tuning piece regardless!

8. Leather Belt

As I mentioned in the previous post, this is essentially an important piece -a statement on its own, not only to hold up your bottoms!

9. Leather Wallet/Card Holder

Like a watch, this piece also says a lot about you, in terms of being an organized character. A daily staple so I suggest you find a durable, stylish and practical one.

10. Leather Bracelet

Amazing right? Taking away the trend element one thing is for certain bracelets remains constant (according to your personality). I have been seeing this piece around almost every other man’s wrist. Best believe it shares a vibe  and gives your outfit that little extra bit of dynamism.

11. Messenger Bag/Brief

Depending on your outfit, personality and lifestyle, whether you are more of a casual person, or a pro – you are more likely to use either.

 

Ergo, this is our recipe for first line defense against complicated wardrobes and bad first impressions!

# Tips and Reminders

Might look like a few, nevertheless, countless outfit possibilities for your ease. Remember the key characteristics is durability (quality), style versatility and comfort. if it does not extend those; it is not worth having!

 

We will revisit the essential colors further of each piece so, stay tuned! And rest assured that even colors have an aspect of essentialism to it. Might seem like a lot to take in but once you have all the information you need, you will realize it does not need to be complicated.

Last but not least, take a minute to skim through our ‘shop by look’ category for a quick how to style and what colors/pieces to match. Till then stay safe and see you on the upcoming blogs.

Visit www.thesolidessentials.com