We help you build a wardrobe of singular pieces you’ll wear now and love forever.
  

By Lindsay Samson

Nov 30, 2021

When it comes to creating a wardrobe with longevity, building an arsenal of utilitarian, everyday basics is key. And while the term ‘basic’ may often be associated with predictable, even boring garments, that doesn’t always have to be the case. Instead, you can embrace the comfort, versatility, and practicality of these closet building blocks while still showing off your style. So read on to discover a selection of basics with a twist that is sure to be on regular rotation in your everyday ensembles.



1.
   

The Tailored Jacket

By Emmy Kasbit

A hardworking wardrobe hero, the tailored jacket delivers a swift dose of polish to any look and has proved an enduring, seasonless staple. Finely tailored and crafted by hand in Lagos, the style is a power piece—one that takes on many forms. Take, for example, Nigerian designer Emmy Kasbit’s distinctive spins on the style: made from breezy linen, his Adanna Jacket is characteristic of an aesthetic that’s defined by clean, architectural cuts and exudes a spirit of sophistication. A suitably minimalist style, it boasts a feminine silhouette and a subtle off-white shade that dials up its versatility. On the other hand, the designer’s Udo Jacket is a little less understated, a fantastic blend of bold Akwete patterns, vibrant blue and white colors, and standout textures offering a decidedly modern take on an evergreen style.

Styling tip: Team either of these striking jackets with their matching bottoms for a no-fuss solution to your sartorial woes. However, if you’re feeling a little adventurous, try Orange Culture’s Check Slim Pants with the Adana for a contrasting effect and the Udo with Studio 189’s Monochrome Andy Pants.


Shop the look: 

Adanna Jacket
Adanna Jacket
Adanna Jacket
Adanna Jacket

Emmy Kasbit

Adanna Jacket

$190
Udo Jacket
Udo Jacket
Udo Jacket
Udo Jacket

Emmy Kasbit

Udo Jacket

$250
Adanna Cargo Pants
Adanna Cargo Pants
Adanna Cargo Pants
Adanna Cargo Pants

Emmy Kasbit

Adanna Cargo Pants

$155
Udo Pants
Udo Pants
Udo Pants

Emmy Kasbit

Udo Pants

$200
Casj Vol 2 Check Slim Pants
Casj Vol 2 Check Slim Pants
Casj Vol 2 Check Slim Pants
Casj Vol 2 Check Slim Pants
Casj Vol 2 Check Slim Pants
Casj Vol 2 Check Slim Pants
Casj Vol 2 Check Slim Pants

Orange Culture

Casj Vol 2 Check Slim Pants

$85
I AM MOUNTAIN Earrings No.1
I AM MOUNTAIN Earrings No.1
I AM MOUNTAIN Earrings No.1
I AM MOUNTAIN Earrings No.1

IAMISIGO

I AM MOUNTAIN Earrings No.1

$298
Tumi Ring
Tumi Ring
Tumi Ring
Tumi Ring

Adele Dejak

Tumi Ring

$95
Mini Afro Basket in Black and Gold
Mini Afro Basket in Black and Gold
Mini Afro Basket in Black and Gold
Mini Afro Basket in Black and Gold

Reform Studio

Mini Afro Basket in Black and Gold

$250
Tele Bracelet
Tele Bracelet
Tele Bracelet
Tele Bracelet

Adele Dejak

Tele Bracelet

$130



2.

The Winter Boot

by Shekudo 

A great pair of boots is one item you’ll wear again and again. It’s a purchase that feels at once both practical and indulgent, and the right pair will work with much of what you already have—the addition of an on-trend style can swiftly elevate even a midi dress or classic jeans and T-shirt pairing. Featuring an almond toe and slouchy silhouette, the Falana OTK Boots by Shekudo is one such boot. A playful spin on the classic over-the-knee boot, it’s a sure-fire head-turner; it’s mesmerizing Aso Oke form made-to-order by Lagosian artisans from ethically and sustainably sourced materials. The brand’s Odo style is Shekudo’s take on the ubiquitous ankle boot, its green, white, and black touches of Aso Oke lending it both ample glamour and wearability.

Styling tip: Thanks to its black and white color palette, the Falana OTK shines when paired with garments in vibrant, solid shades (IAMISIGO’s 3-in-1 Shirtdress is an ultra-cool choice). But if you’re donning the Odo Boot, stick to neutral hues for the rest of your ensemble: this will allow the rich colors of the shoe to shine and prevent any trickly color clashing. 


Shop the look:

3-in-1 Shirt Dress
3-in-1 Shirt Dress
3-in-1 Shirt Dress
3-in-1 Shirt Dress
3-in-1 Shirt Dress

IAMISIGO

3-in-1 Shirt Dress

$413
Agiliga Shirt Dress
Agiliga Shirt Dress
Agiliga Shirt Dress
Agiliga Shirt Dress
Agiliga Shirt Dress

Fruché

Agiliga Shirt Dress

$500
Small Black Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Black Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Black Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Black Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Black Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Black Yemaja Shoulder Bag
Small Black Yemaja Shoulder Bag

Okapi

Small Black Yemaja Shoulder Bag

$1,390
Periana Black Clutch
Periana Black Clutch
Periana Black Clutch
Periana Black Clutch
Periana Black Clutch
Periana Black Clutch

ZAAF

Periana Black Clutch

$210
Olive Cantadora Earrings
Olive Cantadora Earrings
Olive Cantadora Earrings
Olive Cantadora Earrings

Pichulik

Olive Cantadora Earrings

$185
Extra Small Drop Pearl Hoop Earrings
Extra Small Drop Pearl Hoop Earrings
Extra Small Drop Pearl Hoop Earrings
Extra Small Drop Pearl Hoop Earrings

Sidai Designs

Extra Small Drop Pearl Hoop Earrings

$72



3.
  

The Printed Dress

by Doreen Mashika

Romantic, wistful, and delicate, the printed dress is an undeniable wardrobe staple. Some sport it with sandals and sunhats, while others wear it with kitten heels and delicate jewels. But no matter how it is styled and accessorized, it always imbues mood-boosting playfulness. Exuding a holiday-makers reverie, the Zanzibar-inspired prints of Doreen Mashika’s Nia and Zuri dresses are no exception, calling to mind walks along white-sand beaches. The latter oozes bohemian glamour with its ocean-blue shades, elegant shirtdress style, and relaxed midi silhouette. On the other hand, billowy and roomy, the flattering V-neck and semi-asymmetrical hem of the green Nia allows for maximum movement, its soft cotton fabric upping the comfort factor of the dress.

Styling tip: Sure, something about its patterns and sweet shades may feel emblematic of the summertime, but that doesn’t mean it can’t serve as a layering essential in the colder months too. So let either frock add a dose of sunshine to your winter wardrobe and wear it under a classic trench coat like Christie Brown’s Corset-Detail Trench


Shop the look:

Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress
Zuri Dress

Doreen Mashika

Zuri Dress

$230
Green Nia Dress
Green Nia Dress
Green Nia Dress
Green Nia Dress
Green Nia Dress
Green Nia Dress

Doreen Mashika

Green Nia Dress

$260
Corset-Detail Trench Coat
Corset-Detail Trench Coat
Corset-Detail Trench Coat
Corset-Detail Trench Coat
Corset-Detail Trench Coat
Corset-Detail Trench Coat

Christie Brown

Corset-Detail Trench Coat

$495
Sea Urchin Wire Cuff with Blue Topaz
Sea Urchin Wire Cuff with Blue Topaz
Sea Urchin Wire Cuff with Blue Topaz

Patrick Mavros

Sea Urchin Wire Cuff with Blue Topaz

$500
Ball Bag in Chalk
Ball Bag in Chalk
Ball Bag in Chalk
Ball Bag in Chalk
Ball Bag in Chalk
Ball Bag in Chalk

Khokho Collection

Ball Bag in Chalk

$290
Beige & Clemaris Oya Bag
Beige & Clemaris Oya Bag
Beige & Clemaris Oya Bag
Beige & Clemaris Oya Bag
Beige & Clemaris Oya Bag
Beige & Clemaris Oya Bag

Okapi

Beige & Clemaris Oya Bag

$825
Sea Urchin Spine Earrings with Blue Topaz
Sea Urchin Spine Earrings with Blue Topaz
Sea Urchin Spine Earrings with Blue Topaz

Patrick Mavros

Sea Urchin Spine Earrings with Blue Topaz

$375
Layered Necklace
Layered Necklace
Layered Necklace
Layered Necklace
Layered Necklace

Sidai Designs

Layered Necklace

$118



4.

The Wide-Leg Pants

by Viviers

There’s just something so appealing about a slouchy, wide-leg pant: cut to flatter and for comfort, the style is perfectly appropriate for both professional settings as well as after-hours occasions. So peel off those skinnies and get set to embrace a new silhouette. Reminiscent of classic menswear tailoring, the flared wide-leg tailored pants by South African brand Viviers have a dramatic silhouette that flares out towards the hem and is characteristic of the label’s unique blend of femininity and androgyny. Their rust-colored Samurai Pants boast similar qualities, the piece’s pure silk satin form and waist-belt detail guaranteeing unflappable elegance.

Styling tip: Worn with the matching blazer from the line, the Flared Pants offers a spirit of luxe-sophistication that’s timeless. As for the Samurai style, make it the foundation of a kaleidoscopically colorful and fearless ensemble and pair it with Viviers’ Fuschia Stretch Mesh Top.


Shop the look:

Thila Heels
Thila Heels
Thila Heels
Thila Heels

Loza Maléombho

Thila Heels

$275
Lindi Minaudière in Smoke Blush
Lindi Minaudière in Smoke Blush
Lindi Minaudière in Smoke Blush
Lindi Minaudière in Smoke Blush
Lindi Minaudière in Smoke Blush

Khokho Collection

Lindi Minaudière in Smoke Blush

$385
Stretch Mesh Top
Stretch Mesh Top
Stretch Mesh Top
Stretch Mesh Top
Stretch Mesh Top
Stretch Mesh Top
Stretch Mesh Top

Viviers

Stretch Mesh Top

$350
Clay Maia Lava Stone Earrings
Clay Maia Lava Stone Earrings
Clay Maia Lava Stone Earrings

Pichulik

Clay Maia Lava Stone Earrings

$145
Brown Uri Sandals
Brown Uri Sandals
Brown Uri Sandals

Loza Maléombho

Brown Uri Sandals

$170
Boxy Tailored Jacket
Boxy Tailored Jacket
Boxy Tailored Jacket
Boxy Tailored Jacket
Boxy Tailored Jacket
Boxy Tailored Jacket
Boxy Tailored Jacket
Boxy Tailored Jacket

Viviers

Boxy Tailored Jacket

$1,110
Black Salma Clutch
Black Salma Clutch
Black Salma Clutch
Black Salma Clutch

New Tangier

Black Salma Clutch

$330
Black Maia Lava Stone Earrings
Black Maia Lava Stone Earrings
Black Maia Lava Stone Earrings

Pichulik

Black Maia Lava Stone Earrings

$145
Samurai Pants
Samurai Pants
Samurai Pants
Samurai Pants
Samurai Pants
Samurai Pants
Samurai Pants

Viviers

Samurai Pants

$590
Flared Wide-Leg Tailored Pants
Flared Wide-Leg Tailored Pants
Flared Wide-Leg Tailored Pants
Flared Wide-Leg Tailored Pants
Flared Wide-Leg Tailored Pants
Flared Wide-Leg Tailored Pants

Viviers

Flared Wide-Leg Tailored Pants

$760