5 women's wardrobe essentials for 2021 [Pulse Contributor's Opinion]

Worse yet, fashion has seasons and sometimes your favourites may not necessarily be in for the season. Still, that's no excuse for looking like you're stuck in 2016.

So, for the ordinary woman on a budget, here are the five foundational wardrobe pieces that will elevate any look and make you look like a lifestyle influencer every time you step out.

A good fit, skinny Black Jeans

Black will always look effortlessly stylish and elegant. You don’t need to worry about matching colours because it works well with just about any other colour.

Influencer Milly Wa Jesus in a pair of well-fitting black jeans Pulse Live Kenya

The best thing about it is that you can go bold with your makeup and accessories without looking like you just came out of a clown circus. Bonus tip, a black pair of jeans is very flattering on all body types. It’s definitely a must have piece.

Classy, plain t-shirt

Gone are the days when t-shirts were only worn to bed. A good plain t-shirt in any colour is not only comfortable but when worn the proper way will spice up your look.

Influencer Maxine Wabosha rocking a stunning t-shirt look Pulse Live Kenya

There’s many different ways to style a basic tee depending on what look you are going for. To accentuate your curves then tucking it in will be perfect.

For a more chilled, laid back look, an oversized t-shirt over a pair of jeans is the way to go. A t-shirt that can be dressed up or down is essential for your closet.

The classic LBD

A wardrobe is incomplete without this classic. The LBD has been there for generations and it’s not likely to go anywhere any time soon. Depending on the look you desire to achieve, there’s a little black dress for everyone.

Influencer Joy Kendi rocking a LBD look Pulse Live Kenya

Whether it's an off shoulder for a dressy look or a pull neck for a more formal look, this is a must have. Its versatility is unmatched!

You can wear it to the office on a Friday and still look the part later in the evening for happy hour. Seriously, you can never go wrong with a little black dress.

A Statement Blazer

Statement blazers have a great way of making a simple outfit look like a lot of effort was put in.

To top it off you can play around with patterns for that chic look or make it plain to throw it on for a day at the office.

Sharon Mundia rocking a blazer look Pulse Live Kenya

A patterned blazer will take your everyday white t-shirt and jeans outfit from basic to sexy in the snap of a finger. Throw it over a little black dress for that little razzle dazzle. You need a statement blazer, no buts about it.

Reliable Flats

This is the "jack of all trades" for shoes as far as everyday looks go. Whether you are going to work, the supermarket or even an afternoon outdoor date, some flat shoes will get the job done.

Hey, if you get chased down the street by a stray dog, guess what you need to save your life? Not some heels.

A pair of flat shoes made by Kenyan brand Re Afric Pulse Live Kenya

Seriously though, comfort is the name of the game and a good pair of flat shoes is the answer. They pair well with jeans and dresses. After a long day of strutting it in heels, you can reach out for a pair of flats from your bag.

These will never go out of style and they are pretty affordable too, not to mention the many designs and colours they come in.

Pulse Contributor Cindy Odinga Pulse Live Kenya

The foregoing is an Opinion Article submitted to Pulse Live Kenya for publication as part of the Pulse Contributors initiative.

Pulse Contributors is an initiative to highlight diverse journalistic voices. Pulse Contributors do not represent the company Pulse and contribute on their own behalf.

Should you wish to submit an Article to Pulse, do so via contributors@pulse.co.ke.

Cindy Odinga is a Kenyan creative, Digital content creator and a Style enthusiast. She is a lover of all things adventure and lives by the words, "If you obey all the rules, you'll miss all the fun."