In a world where trends come and go faster than a blink of an eye, finding a sense of timeless style can feel like chasing a mirage. For women navigating the maze of fashion choices, the quest for fashion staples that strike the perfect balance between versatility and sophistication can be daunting. That’s why we sought wisdom from none other than Chioma Ikokwu, a beacon of fashion influence, business acumen, and television charisma.
Ikokwu’s journey through the realms of fashion, entrepreneurship, and the spotlight has armed her with a keen eye for what works – and what doesn’t – in the world of style. As a revered figure in both the fashion and business spheres, her insights into the essential pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe carry weight. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the glamorous events of Hollywood, Ikokwu’s style transcends borders, offering a universal appeal that resonates with women across the globe.
With her guidance, we embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of a curated wardrobe, one that marries practicality with elegance. Through Ikokwu’s expert lens, we explore the four quintessential pieces that form the foundation of a versatile and chic closet. From the boardroom to brunch dates, these staples promise to streamline your style decisions, empowering you to navigate the ever-changing landscape of fashion with confidence and flair.
Ikokwu, the fashion icon and business mogul shares with us something people will be surprised to learn about her, a moment in her life where style played a role in marking a new beginning/ transition in her life and some wardrobe staples we feel every girly should know!
I feel like I’ve had many style moments in my lifetime, but one that really stood out was the first premiere of The Real Housewives of Lagos. I wore this blue outfit by Xtra Brides which has been such a statement because sometimes you’ll see an outfit that is beautiful and iconic but you don’t know where the person wore it or even remember who wore it. However, when people see that dress, they know that it’s me. When they see it, what comes to mind is Chioma and RHOL. That blue outfit truly represented a shift in my life because it was such a big transition for me based on where I was coming from and the things I’d done prior to that.
I’d never thought that I was ever going to go into TV or showbiz. It wasn’t my dream. I had no interest whatsoever, and I didn’t really care for it. I didn’t do drama in school, I never had the urge or interest whatsoever in being a TV or movie star. I’m not an actress. I don’t even know how it happened…it just did. So for me, that blue dress represented that change, transition, and new beginning/ phase of my life.
Fashion Staples Every Woman Should Own
Unlocking the secret to effortless style starts with curating a collection of fashion staples that stand the test of time. Whether you’re navigating the boardroom or brunch with friends, there are timeless essentials that form the backbone of any fashion-forward ensemble. Join us as we delve into the must-have pieces every woman should have in her closet, each one a versatile canvas waiting to be styled for any occasion.
Black Blazer



A black blazer is just something that everybody in this world should own. With a black blazer, you can dress it up and you can dress it down. It can work casually, with jeans, a white T-shirt and sneakers. If you swap those jeans for dress pants and put on a pair of heels, you look like a boss b-tch automatically. You can wear it with a short black dress and that takes you straight to dinner. You can also wear it with a mini skirt and that’s like another sexy look. A black blazer is that all-around versatile piece that can transform you from day to night and serious to sexy.
Little Black Dress



Another is a little black dress. This can also be dressed up or down. Imagine you wore a little black dress with a fanny pack and sneakers. That’s a casual look but if you throw on heels and take a little mini cute bag, that’s a dinner look and if (like I said) you throw a black blazer over it, you can wear it to work. So a black dress is key. I would advise everyone to have at least one little black dress.
Sunglasses



What else? I love sunglasses. Asides protecting you from the sun’s rays, they are such a vibe. Most people look ridiculously good with sunglasses. There’s a kind of aura that you bring when you walk into a room and you have them on. You instantly look mysterious but cool at the same time. I hope to have my own line of them someday. I mean, they already call me the sunglasses queen. I always have a pair in my bag, car or on my face. You should definitely have that in your wardrobe.
Diamond Earrings



Then I’ll say maybe diamond earrings? Not necessarily real diamonds if you can’t afford them but like diamond-looking earrings, I think that just elevates any look. It would help to dress up the look and make you look wealthy even if you’re not.

What is One Thing People Will be Surprised to Learn About Chioma Ikokwu?
That I’m so childish. I love video games. I love kids. I’m such a child at heart. I like to play. I love arcade games and bumper cars and amusement parks and rides and candy floss and popcorn and ice cream. Literally! I’m like a five-year-old in a 34-year-old’s body.