Being fasyon is not about following trends or shelling out five figures for a jacket (though it’s also fine if you want to)—it’s about picking clothes that fit you well, suits your purpose, and makes you feel good about yourself. If you want to feel like a million pesos everyday even if you only have P500 in your wallet, then pick clothes that you know will make you beam. You don’t even have to stray too far from basic pieces; all you need to do is to upgrade them a bit. Here are a few options from the collaborative collection of Plains and Prints and designer Mark Bumgarner that you may want to consider investing in, as well as the best shoe pairings to help you go the extra mile:
Larra Long-sleeved Button-down Shirt
P1,898
Upgrade your classic polo with this piece accentuated with slit sleeves and a sash you can tie into a pussycat bow for a creatively chic look.
Ezrra Cold Shoulder Top
P1,898
Cold shoulder tops are still a good way to achieve a fun and interesting silhouette. They can also easily take you from the office to your BFF dinner—just don’t forget to bring a jacket just in case it rains!
Ella Pants
P1,998
Who says slim-fit slacks are the only way to go? These wide-leg pants not only make you look very professional, they’re also breezy and comfortable!
Thaliya Sleeveless Pantsuit
P2,798
Soft silhouettes can also make you look like you mean business. This pantsuit has slits which gives a relaxed but elegant feel. Remember to accessorize!
Olyvia Cold Shoulder Dress
P2,798
Dresses are awesome for those days when you don’t have time to think of what to wear. This number is pretty versatile—pair it with chunky heels at the start of the week or with white sneakers on a casual Friday.
Since you're going for a closet upgrade, why not try to get yourself a few pairs of sturdy shoes, too? They may be a bit expensive, but they're worth the investment:
Collapsible leather loafers
P5,450, available at Mariquina Shoemaker
You can wear this sturdy pair in two ways (plus you don't need to worry about ruining the back ends when you accidentally step on them).
Closed-toe Chunky Heels TM Salima 2 Piece
P5,795, available at Rockport/Zalora
Rockport is known for creating classic-style footwear that provide comfort to your feet and support to your arch, so this pair of heels can last you a day in the office without you worrying much about aches and blisters.
Champion Lurex Sneakers
P2,895, available at Keds
Here's something for your casual Fridays. These sneakers have just the right amount of glimmer, plus it also has a pillow-like footbed for maximum comfort.