Do you have a closet full of clothes and accessories but you still can’t seem to decide what to wear? It happens, but can be frustrating, especially when running late for work or an appointment. Also, there are some must-haves, fashionistas say, for every closet that come in handy and make dressing up less stressful. 

Black dress

Caroline Ikirezi, a fashion designer in Kigali, says that the little black dress has become a nifty wardrobe essential. The simplicity of a black dress is that you can wear it with different accessories, and pair it with dissimilar shoes.

It is also hard for anyone to tell that it is the same dress you wore a few weeks or months back. Ikirezi notes that a little black dress works for any event. It can work for social, casual, or official events. And black looks good on everyone. 

Jeans

Ikirezi says that jeans are one attire that you can count on, any day. Even at the workplace, if dressed with a long-sleeved shirt (tucked in), with a blazer and heels, you can pull off the ‘boss lady’ look.

Ikirezi says you can also match jeans with a vest, not so bright, tucked in, and a throw-on. For a petite figure, opt for cropped, straight leg and skinny jeans. For curvy figures, choose dark-wash denim for a more flattering look. 

For more casual occasions, you can opt for ripped jeans. It’s a pair of jeans which features a tattered, damaged look, and has separate frayed spaces, often at the knees, or thighs. Dress with a flowy blouse and heels. Or add a blazer and some booties. A leather jacket and sneakers are also a fun way to style these jeans.

Flat shoes

However much you fancy high heels, flat shoes are a must have, says Denyse Umutoni, a fashion stylist located in Kicukiro. These sandals, pumps, sneakers or boots are not only comfortable but also chic and can even be worn with formal outfits. They can also be in your car fulltime in case you need to change your high heels after a long day, she says.

A good bra

Umutoni highlights that bras are the foundation of the wardrobe, a properly fitting bra can make you look thinner, and prevents loose-looking breasts.

"If the bra is good, your clothes will fit better, which is reason enough to spend on bras just like other necessities. A proper bra is the source of comfort and peace, you don’t want to be the person that keeps loosening or tightening your bra, or checking yourself out in public. It’s embarrassing and may affect one’s self-esteem,” she says.

Sunglasses

Umutoni says that with their frames, lens colours and different shapes, sunglasses are a full vibe, because they define your personal style. They are fashionable, help avert the sunrays from the eyes, and improve chicness.

Watch

A plain arm makes the hand feel bare. Watches are accessories women should have as they add a sophisticated detail to style. Much as they help tell time, luxury watches are simply stunning, Umutoni adds.