Let’s be honest. Being put together at all times is tasking, financially dependent, and mentally ready. But do you know it’s always worth it? In Kaduna state, Northern Nigeria region, there’s this supermarket called Dalema. Staple of our childhood and still standing.

We have been accustomed to the store having everything you might need that we became loyal. So, anytime one dresses homeless and stops by the supermarket, is when the nation comes to shop and sisssss, you end up complaining “this one will think I’m suffering meanwhile i was just having a lazy day oo” “my crush was there and saw me like this?!, tears. ” Hmm, my SS 2 teacher that said I won’t amount to anything really saw this version of me.” eyaah. I know how many times I have been a victim (not alot, but I know the feeling).
We can’t deny the power that comes with dressing well and knowing you’ve tried.

So for lazy days, busy days, quick in and out days, here are some tips that will go a long way to save you that embarrassment that only you can feel. 

LET‘S GET IT!

1. Have an accessible outfit: days when you have no energy to dress up, you don’t have to look like you woke up on the wrong side of the bed or you are the only one going through Nigeria’s problem. So a simple dress, jumpsuit, a well fit bubu or simple jeans, and Tee can do the trick. You don’t have energy, but at least you look good. *Whos gonna know?*

2. A-cce-sso-rize: If you understand the power of a simple string pearl, you’d never take it off. Accessories play a huge role in elevating your style. It adds to details of an ensemble. Go for timeless pieces over trending pieces. Also, perks for lazy day outfits: it comes with minimalist jewelry. Simple and gracious. A band of ring, slim gold chain with pendant, earrings, and even belts.

3. The 7 minute make up hack: looking good has a long dopamine feel. For some, makeup is part of their routine,for others, its just occasional. Regardless, having 7 minutes to make up is fair for when you are running late or not in the mood. A foundation, blush, and lip gloss combo plus eyeliner, mascara, and eyeshadow combo is sometimes the perfect makeup for that moment.

4. Schedule beauty days: look forward to maintenance by marking your calendar for beauty dates. Nails, hair, waxing, spa, etc. should have constant dates depending on lifestyle and budget. Let’s be honest, though it is nice to have all that done by a beauty expert, it tremendously helps if you can paint your nails DIY and wash your hair from home. It comes in handy for when mercury is in retrograde. Also, my natural sistas, what hair product do you use as a base? For me, Tresemmé shampoo and conditioner is bible!

5. Hair: I love the all back ponytail I pack and also cornrows a lot. They are my favorite go-to hairstyles. Hairstyles like minimal gel application to sleek back hair, simple natural braids that require minimal effort to maintain, head bands or scarves to make a fashion Audrey Hepburn statement or to keep down unruly hair look very feminine and very modest. This, of course, costs less than the attached braids, but braids, done well, last a long time and offer different looks depending on how you manipulate the style.

6. Perfume: *you are neve fully dressed without a smile* (annie reference), but this is what you are not truly dressed without: A great perfume. Perfume is the frosting on your overall good appearance. Note: You don’t have to suffocate people. A little spritz on the right places goes further. One can start from bath gels, to body sprays or mist, and oil, and the little effort will leave an impression. 

Remember, you never know how a particular scent, ensemble, or accessories could boost your networking. Like minds attract. Remember that. I know how many people have wiggled their way into my life and vice versa because of a scent, a dress style, or simply a gold ring design that struck a conversation from the onset.

Go forth and be prim and proper with minimal energy and friendly budget.

Cheers to the soft life 🥂 🎀