In our search for the best timeless wardrobe staples to add to our closets and keep forever, we’ve shared everything from the best staples from go-to brands like Madewell to the items a mother and daughter have in common. And now we’re back again with a new expert and her insight. Meet Yasmin Furmie, the South Africa-based style savant and designer of SiSi, a line of modern shirting.
I discovered this chic lady on Instagram one day and was immediately drawn to her creative, colorful, and expertly-styled outfits. Chatting with Furmie reminded me of exactly why I fell in love with fashion in the first place: just how creative and personal it can be. So while her style can be categorized as anything but basic, she’s got her wardrobe basics on lock.
Furmie doesn’t just have great outfits, though, she has the kind of style wisdom that only comes from decades of experimenting and finding what works for her. “I’m 58 years old and loving the space I’m in,” she told me, pointing to her confidence and self-belief as the two valuable things she’s gained with age. She shared her favorite wardrobe staples with us and unsurprisingly, they’re really good. So continue on to read why she relues on each of the below six items and of course, see how she wears each.
“A pair of sneakers is a great way to change the style of an outfit. It tones down formal outfits and provides that ‘fashion’ factor. Plus, it’s now a part of every person’s closet. I pair mine with quirky socks to make it a standout look.”
“A luxurious pair of black trousers can be dressed up or down. It can be part of a layered look (under skirts and dresses) which is one of my style features so that’s definitely a necessity.”
“A blazer is another must-have. It’s versatile enough to pair with track pants or skirts. I love the juxtaposition of a formal pice with something unexpected.”
“The white shirt needs no explanation. It’s the basic piece that everyone needs. Our collection provides me with a good variety from shirts to dresses. These are also layered in monochromatic looks. You can never have enough white shirts.”
“I love rings—the more the merrier. I love bold pieces on my fingers and it adds to whatever I’m styling. My mother always said that one should take off one thing when leaving your home. I add one. I’m definitely not a believer in less is more.”
“A big pair of sunglasses can hide a lot. Too lazy to do make-up? One can easily hide behind a stunning pair. I have a big black pair that is quite chic. Hide the sins I say.”
Up next: If You Thought These 30 Zara Finds Were Designer, I Wouldn’t Blame You.