The Edit: 5 Wardrobe Essentials to Elevate Your Off-Duty Looks
We all have those pieces in our wardrobes that we gravitate to over and over again, from season to season. Whether it’s a classic white button-down shirt for work or a solid handbag that goes with everything, they are the timeless designs that have plenty of staying power.
The key to building a wardrobe of essentials is to choose pieces that are simple yet versatile, so they can be worn multiple ways and seem fresh each time, such as the jumpsuit with the silhouette that’s perfect for every day or a piece of accessory that will complete any look.
Below, we’ve selected five go-to pieces from African and Black-owned brands to provide a good foundation for effortless off-duty looks.
The Jumpsuit
Shop the Oval Sleeve Jumpsuitby SELFI
A jumpsuit is the perfect trans-seasonal wardrobe item and the Black Oval Sleeve Jumpsuit by South African brand SELFI is ideal for keeping you stylish and comfortable well in the spring and beyond, whether you dress it up with heels or keep it casual with canvas sneakers. The lightweight linen jumpsuit is made out of sustainable and breathable materials, with an elastic waist and adjustable tie, it will keep you so comfortable all day that you won’t even need to change before relaxing on your couch after a long day out.
The Shirt
Shop the Thebe Collared Wrap Shirt by ALC
Classic with a twist, the Thebe Collared Wrap Shirt from Durban-based menswear brand ALC is an unexpected take on the traditional button-down shirt. Featuring a wrap-style tie closure at the side, the pinstripe shirt is made from 100% cotton and s versatile for both formal or relaxed settings. The adjustable tie allows it to be worn either loose or fitted, giving the wearer the freedom to make this unique piece his own.
The Pants
Shop the Essential Wide-Leg Pants by Elle Est…
There are certain staple items that form the foundations of every stylish wardrobe and the aptly named Essential Wide-Leg Pants from designer Tamika Wlkins’ New York label Elle Est… are just that. Cut from wrinkled-textured fabric n a deep-shade of gold that will go well with both plain T-shirts of sleek blouses, the Essential pants are designed to be be one of the building blocks of simple, timeless style.
The Earrings
Shop the Uzi Hoop Earrings by SOKO
Hoop earrings are just one of those accessories that will never go out of style. Any outfit will be given a shiny uplift with this pair of Uzi Hoop Earrings by women-led Kenyan brand SOKO. Made from gold-plated brass by local artisans in Nairobi, the hoops will develop a patina over time that will add to its timelessness and longevity.
The Handbag
Shop the Zaza Grande Bag by Anima Iris
Handcrafted by specialist artisans in Dakar, Senegal, the bags by contemporary brand Anima Iris are designed to stand the test of time. With unrivaled quality and attention to detail, the Zaza Grande style is made from textured calf leather with a structured boxy shape in a chestnut-brown hue that is sure to stand out with any outfit.