Growing up, a white shirt was a status symbol. It spoke at length in knowledge, uncovered depths of wisdom and expressed silent authority. Growing up, my Dad was not just the epitome of a white shirt, he was the very essence of it. It was the singular most dominant feature of his wardrobe and it could only ever be crisp… pristine… starched… SHARP! It earned him the nickname ‘GQ’ and in my book, anything short of this, just didn’t make the cut!
Naturally, as I progressed into the realm of employment, I too found the white shirt to be not just a staple, but supposedly critical for unattained heights of success. Accessorized with a Hermès 90×90 (*insert smug smile*), my white shirt wasn’t just my authority, it transformed to my cape! But I’ve since learned not to take life too seriously. SHARP! is nice, but as a lady, I much prefer my shirt (blouse?) to glide gracefully along my fashion scale, sliding from understated chic to refined grace.
Ever-adaptable, I often find that my white shirt is my blank canvas, capable of self-expression and open to my style interpretations. Somewhere between the flirty off shoulders, the hand stitched silks and the creaseless oxford cloth classics (Taiwo does this like a PRO!), I’ve found myself “at home” with this undeniable essential.
Below are my much desired white shirt chic goals
I’ve learnt that maintenance is the greatest feat in owning a white shirt, but here’s a tip you (probably) didn’t know… they (Brooks Brothers, according to the WSJ) say your blend ratio shouldn’t exceed 60/40 Polyester/Cotton…. you can thank me later!
Ladies, have you invested in a white shirt? How does it work for you?
xXx
Ps: For those of you that don’t already know, I have Tory Lanez ‘Hypnotized’ on REPEAT!!!!
PPs: I can’t seem to decide if I want my hair in Senegalese twists or if I want to keep queening in my nappy ‘fro… thoughts?
Bonita Valli 