10 Items to Pair with your T Shirt for Work or School

I checked my wardrobe this weekend when thinking of what to wear today (Monday March 12th) and realised (again), that I have quite a number of t shirts.
I tend to wear t shirts at home, or for super casual stuff like chilling with friends but I decided to wear tshirts to work this week. I therefore had to do some digging and thinking to see what to pair my t shirts with to make them chic and work ready.

Here are 10 things you can style your t shirt with for work or school.


Pair with a Dress
Almost similar to the pinafore look is the dress. It can either be a thin strap of sleeveless dress and of course, this works better with a plain t shirt as the dress will cover most of it up.

Pair with a Pinafore
If you can usually get away with a school girl vibe, then please do pair your t shirt with a pinafore. Either go all out by wearing shoes and socks, or keep the outfit the focal point and opt for quieter accessories. No pigtails though.

Pair with Overalls or Dungarees
This one I love because depending on the overalls you go with, you usually end up being a collage of sexy, trendy and cute all at once!

Pair it with a Blazer
Blazers, Long or Short jackets, they will all work in taking that t shirt from casual to business casual, especially if you wear with plain black or dark blue jeans, or pants with it.

Pair it with a Suit
Pant or Skirt suit, throw your t shirt under a suit and people will forget it is a t, especially if it is plain, white or black.

Pair with a Denim Jacket
I personally wear my denim jacket with EVERYTHING but pair with a t shirt and you realise they were probably made for this!
I am not a fan of denim on denim so when I do my denim jacket, I go with leggings or pants, and when I wear jeans, I go with jackets.

Pair with Leather
Leather toughens anything up so be it leather pants or jacket, have fun.
Do watch out though to ensure your leather does not end up make you look more like you're going for a rock concert than to school.

Pair with a Sweater
I should add 'Weather Permitting' to be honest because the sun in Naija is not for babies but if you know it is a cold day or you will be in an air-conditioned room for most of the day, this is a good look to try.

Pair with a Shirt
Throwing a shirt, buttoned or not, on your t shirt dresses it up for work. You can tuck just the t shirt in, or tuck both the t and the shirt.


Pair it with a Skirt
Most times when we think t shirts, we think jeans but skirts are great as well.
You can either go with something flared, or a pencil skirt.
While I do not own one now, I will get one of those tulle skirts and rock with a simple t shirt soon.


Pair with Formal Accessories
I think every 'How-To' style post I write has something about accessories in it and that is because accessories can style a look up or down.
In this situation, you want accessories that will make your t shirt look more formal so reach out for formal pieces like a watch, earrings and bracelets. Aim for solid purses and heels and voila, you will be work ready!


Pair with Pants.
Jeans are common with tshirts but if you do wear a pair of jeans, remember to throw a jacket on as well.
If you want to ditch the jacket however, then a good way to go is pants.
Wide-leg and Culottes will give you the edge while simple tailored pants keep it classy and formal.

Pair with Shorts
Not bum shorts nor hot pants though. Pair with shorts that would work for work.

What are some items you like to pair your t shirts with?

#ShopTheLook Eclectic by Sasha Dress

I got this dress when i went to the Eclectic by Sasha shop.

It was one of those, go in to get one thing, leave with ten type days...

This dress was like light and i a moth and i had to get it. Since then i have been able to wear it at different times and for different things.

Dress from Eclectic by Sasha

#TomboyChic The baggy top trend

Hi guys,

I s.h.a.r.ed a picture of me wearing an oversized t shirt on Instagram the other day and i got quite a number of people asking about it.

When you are a short / small person like i am, getting a tshirt as a gift is always a gamble as most people send large or at best, medium. A medium tee for me is almost a dress so instead of fighting it, when i get a tee i like like the one pictured above, i just wear it.

You can get away with the oversized top look if you follow the where and how.

WHERE: This is obviously not the look for class or an important meeting. It is a look that can be casual or trendy. For example, i rocked this dashiki to Day 2 of a YouTube training.

HOW: You can wear the top on its own with a belt, or pair with shorts. 

Instagram: @jeamyblessed

Flat shoes complete the look for me but if want to go all out, i ditch flats and rock some heels!

#StyleTo Life is a beach... Style It!

Heyyyy!

How is it going with you this lovely Wednesday afternoon?

I am just here, chilling with Wendy Williams and eating a doughnut.

Or five.

(Word i'm going to get fat!)

Lol.

So today i wanted to look at beach style.

I don't mind going to the beach. Infact, i think it is one of the best ways of healing your mind, catching up with friends and a book and just being serene.

And i am all about my serenity! Yes please!

Head on over to @SHOPTOSYN or my instagram page to get details

I think the beach is one of the easiest things to style for. Unless you are off for a video or photoshoot, fun fun and sand are key words and what's best for that?

My favourite thing to rock... SHORTS!

So grab your shorts or short skirt and remember to work with cotton and other light fabric because sand WILL get everywhere and wear you out!

Now they say black people don't swim but for the longest time i have known my friends and family to love the beach and safe waves. Emphasis on safe. No i will not be randomly surfing (even if it is on my bucket list), but i will stand by the water and let it come all the way to my ankles if i please.

And i usually please!

That is where the shorts come in. If you do plan to swim, whether in the sea or the pool (most beach houses have pools as well), throw on a bikini or suit under your clothes.

I tend to pair my shorts with teeshirts but chiffon dresses like the type in my pictures here are also a great addition. They cover up all that needs covering but still give room for movement. 

Shoes to wear give me a headache as most of my shoes are either flats that will 'eat' sand, or some not-water-friendly fabric. Luckily, my friend Preye gave me these sandals in my picture and i love them! Easy to walk in and safe for the beach.

To finish, throw on your best beach hat and protect your eyes with fabulous shades.

Simple

Chic

Good to go!

P.S, if you can get a handsome instagram husband to go with, even better!

I love this man! Lol

Mission: Take a million pictures before frolicking in the sand and messing things up!

#ThrowbackStyleThursday My Little Black Judging Dress

It is #ThrowbackThursday and a perfect opportunity for a style throwback.

I remember i had two versions of the dress in this picture. One was more of a peach colour but i loved the black one because it was simple but then has that pizzazz brought on by the glittery top half. If you know me and my mantra, you know that is what describes my style- simple but dramatic.

I took this picture on the red carpet for the talent show, 'God's Children Great Talent' where i was a regional judge. It was fun to see kids of between 3 and 18 dancing, drawing, singing and more.

Judging is never easy but i always try to be firm and fair.

#Style One Outfit Three Ways

For today's 'one three ways' feature, i am talking about my #unitedcoloursofbenetton top.

Getting a top that can be styled in different ways and with multiple colours is always a great idea. You can wear it for years and make it look different each time.

My first instinct with this top as shown in Picture 1 and 4, is to accessorise with contrasts to make it even brighter. The secret is to tone down in other areas.

AND, you may not be able to see it properly here, in picture 1, i actually wore the top the wrong way (on purpose o) with the front to the back.

As for the middle pictures, i went with navy blue / a shade of purple because while not as bright, they still give a good contrast.

As always, i love my hats or scarves.

I'm still going to try this with black. I think that will be pretty cool too.

#FashionFriday One Jacket styled Three ways

You know how there are must-have items? Jackets are a must have.

Jackets, be they denim, leather, blazers or any of the million types out there, come in handy sometimes for purely aesthetic (fashion) reasons, and other times for practical reasons.

Jackets help to hide a multitude of sins (like love handles, flabby arms, et al), turn your look from simple to chic or official and help you layer like a pro.

It's cool to have the different kinds of jackets but even the most basic one can be versatile.
Check out how I rocked one jacket in three totally different ways.

Semi-Formal
This look is good for those who work in less formal environments, or for dress down at work days. It's also great for school, and higher institutions.

Brown Pants: Mango
Shoes: Bata
Hair and Make Up: Nikes Canvas

Casual

I'm a tshirt and shorts type of girl and if you are too, have fun with it. But turn your saturday-at-the-beach look to an everyday look by throwing a jacket on!

Shorts: Mango
Shoes: Tash

Formal
A dress is just a dress. But a dress with a jacket? Now that's a look.
Perfect for church and events. I wore this particular style for the 'Palmwine and Other Local Drinks' exhibition

Shoes: Tash
Make Up: Mogizzie

#TBReview et #Giveaway Mara Cruiz Organic Haircare

A few weeks ago, I got some hair products from Mara Cruiz Organics. We even did a giveaway and there's another to come today!

I wanted to however do a quick show and tell of each product in the package I got (and will be giving out).

I have left my hair as is for quite a bit now and love using products best for it. My usual routine is for busy days, some hair cream and brushing the edges. When I have a little more time, I mosturise more thoroughly.
At the weekends, I tend to shampoo (not every weekend as you should never wash your hair more than it needs), condition, cream and mosturise.

Here is where Mara Cruiz comes in handy. The range of products is so varied that there is something for every time frame. Five minutes? Use the hair cream. Bit of time? Use the hair mayonnaise (or growth oil) and hair cream. And of course on a 'spoil your hair day', use them all.

The products come in mainly see-through clear plastic bottles (apart from the cream and mayonnaise). I'd have preferred neater packaging with a different font and branding to make it more attractive.

Mosturising Natural Shampoo
This has a really good smell, probably because of the black soap, and I love it. It also contains olive oil which is a plus for me.

Nourishing Rinse-Out Conditioner
Easy to apply and contains coconut oil (another plus!).

Mosturizing Leave-In Conditioner
Another one that is easy to apply and as suggests, quicker to use since it is leave in.

Hair Mayonnaise
I haven't really used this one, first because I tend to forget, and secondly because having to leave in for twenty minutes before rinsing out needs more scheduling than I can handle.
It will however be great for those of you with really tough hair.

Hair Growth Stimulator Oil
This is my favourite. First because oils are generally my favourite, be they for hair or body, but also because anything that stimulates growth gets a pass!

It can be sprayed unto your hand or directly into the hair which also makes it convenient and easy to apply, and is infused with loads of great herbs like Rosemary and Sage. Lastly, it's easy to carry which means it will be easy to pack!
'Parfait'!

Mosturising Hair Cream
Thick and easy to apply, it may however be too powerful for some noses.

In conclusion, the Mara Cruiz Organics range is broad and therefore provides something for everyone and every schedule. My favourite is still the oil but I would recommend each item for different needs.

If you would like to win some #MaraCruiz products, head on over to My Instagram Page and mention your name, location  and preferred product.

#FashionFriday Green Green Green

It was my dad's birthday last week and we wanted to do celebrate with him with family members.

My sister got this super lush fabric for the girls from SAS Textiles and i loved it the second i saw it.
Green is a dodgy colour. Unlike say a red that has just that one main bold shade, different shades of green give different vibes and sometimes that deep green can leave you looking leafy.
Lol.

But not this one. It just popped and i was excited to hand it over to Jide (Mister Boya). When i first told him the style i wanted, i started with, "this will be boring...". When i was done, he said, yup! That's boring. *sigh*.
Then he showed me what he had in mind and it ticked my boxes (it is my dad's birthday so i want to look glam, but it is my dad's birthday so i will be doing a lot of kneeling and greeting people)

Once i tried it, i felt like a princess!

The beautiful things about this design and fabric is it did not too much in terms of accessorising. Simple drop ear-rings and rings and i was good.

Then the lovely Modupe of Make Up by Mogizzie came to do my make up and had her gele tied in this ultra chic style. I was just like, yup, gimme that!
And she did.

So, you can also be pretty in green, not just pink!

Once again, Gele and Make Up by Make Up by Mogizzie
Dress Design by Mister Boya
Fabric from SAS Textiles

Feel free to check them out.

#TBDaily x My 2017 basic hair care routine

Hi everyone
So since i have had so many enquiries about my hair care routine, here goes.

First off, a word of caution- as with everything else, hair is individual and what works for one may not work for all. While i won't recommend playing too much with your hair as some things may cause irreparable damage, there is nothing wrong with trying things.

For me, i put my hair care down to three things;
- washing
- mosturising
- styling
- letting it breathe!

Okay so when it comes to washing ones hair, there is a big debate about how often you should tdo that. I am from the 'not too often' school of thought because i feel a little dirt and oil is good for it. If you do not have dandruff, it does not smell and you have not been rolling in the sand, your hair should be fine. I wash my hair regularly, but also right before i want it to lose its volume and be more manageable.
( p.s, i washed it with coke once. read about that here- )

I am a fan of baby products. If it is good enough for baby, it can't harm adults right? So i use baby oil on my hair. When my hair was shorter i used a lot of Virgin Hair Fertiliser because i liked the smell, feel and results. I actually will buy some more come Monday. It really helps. I believe in trying things once in a while but i always go back to my oils in whatever shape or brand.

While for a big red carpet event, i get help from hairstylists like Preye of MzPreye Makeovers, i experiment with new styles often. The length of your hair affects the styles you can rock with it and now that my hair is longer, i miss bangs. I do find that styles that involve pulling the hair show off its length a bit more so buns for example.
Quite often though, i will just let it breathe and be as too much manipulation can cause breakage and loss of hair.

And that is one thing i do for my hair and skin- let it breathe.

If i am not working, or won't be taking pictures, i keep my hair and skin easy breezy. Don't stress your hair, especially if you are older than 25. And if you are not yet 25 and reading this, then please do all you can with it now! Lol

#ShopTosyn x #OOTD Casual Chic Conference Style!

What do you do when you have work in the morning and a press conference right after?


You rock clothes that work!

My simple fit for it was this free shirt and a skirt. I cheated though and put a change of shoes in the car.

Shirt: Store bought
Skirt: Store bought
Shoes: Sekinah Gallery (Complimentary)
Make Up: IDazzle (Complimentary)

#ShopTosyn My First Week of Clothes from Vintage Closet

When I began 'A Week of', I wasn't sure anyone was paying attention. But some of you really got into it, even making suggestions.

While I still want to try sporty week and maybe a week of heels (*hides*), I was most challenged by a week of skirts (gosh). Guess what though? I looked into my wardrobe and found my jeans and let's just say, I had weaned myself off them.
Good thing or bad?

'A Week Of' had me challenging myself and dressing to a theme and the exercise was actually therapeutic and exciting. I would think of a theme, check my wardrobe then mix and match. I loved the skirts and the dresses and the clothes. I mean, who doesn't love clothes?

Thankfully, the cool kids at 'Vintage Closet' also noticed and they sent me some stuff from their collection. I follow them on twitter and know they have amazing stuff but to get some to test drive? Ma ma mia!
It was disney of vintage wear.

I started with this floral top that spoke to me first.

What does a tomboy do with a floral top? Mix it up! I threw flats and leggings for a modern day 'joker' feel.

Then I went on to this skirt next.

When I kept looking at the skirt, I just knew I had to try something I haven't tried since my first year in uni- clashing patterns.
I think it turned out quite well with the whole styling making me look like a prim and proper tutor.

The school theme continued with this burgundy pants but this time, I became the cool school girl. 

And then I wrapped it up with a very simple casual look on Day 4.

Check out @vintagecloset9ja on instagram

Tosyns Tips
1. If i could i would raid Temi Dollface's wardrobe because she does vintage right.
How is this a tip? Well get inspired! That's the tip

2. Belts, Hats, Gloves, Scarves, Fun
This is the week that lets you dare. Old is in, it never left

3. Mix and Clash
I'm surprised i immediately went for clashing patterns but it worked. The secret to clashing is pairing the patterns right or having a colour theme.

#ShopTosyn My First Week of Black and Blue

My themed week challenge continues. By the way, I set this challenge up for myself and have no clue when it will end.

I still have to try 'traditional outfits', skirts, sporty chic and more as a lot of you have suggested but this week felt random.

Till I noticed a pattern in my randomness- I was wearing a lot of blue and black.

Now blue and black are usually both dark colours, although there are different shades of blue like sky blue that are very bright. One usually doesn't reach for blue after black and vice versa, but as my week shows, it's actually a fun combination.

Check these out.

My Tips

Denim 

We tend to think of blue in terms of anything else but jeans but hey, guess the simplest way to style your black top? With a pair of jeans!!!

Shade

The shade of blue is important. A very dark shade turns the look into a black outfit while a light shade gives a little pop. Either works, but remember my favourite tip- accessorise right.

Colours

Since black is neutral, you really can go crazy with what else you rock this look with. I went comfortable and stuck mostly with brown but try pink and even white.

I hope these tips help.
Let me know what you think

#ShopTosyn My First Week of Cartoon Tops

That should read 'cartoon tees' actually. I mean, what do you do when some of your favourite tees have cartoon and other characters on them?

I'll tell you what! These are my tips

* Toughen up!
Rock your cartoon t shirt with leather, with boots, with anything that makes it feel modern and tough. You'll love it!

* Be cute
Look, cartoon tees are cute so why are trying to be anything else but? Cute hair-styles, a 'Hello Kitty' button or hair pin here and there or even a skirt will make you cute. Don't over-do it though!

* Throw a Jacket on
I just keep extolling the virtue of jackets because they really are the "superman" of outfits. A jacket will transform your cartoon tee into a nice everydayy look, paired with jeans and heels (for work) or flats (for casual stuff).

Cartoon tees tend to be casual though so remember that.

Here's what else I rocked

Rocked my Minnie Mouse tee when Geoffrey and Shola from Project Fame swung by!