We may not be on the same level as Beyoncé when it comes to her glamorous style choices (regardless of how many leopard-prints we buy), but the good news is, we’ve got some amazing pointers from her talented stylist, Zerina Akers.
PureWow recently sat down with the costume designer and wardrobe curator, who’s also known for her work with stars like Yara Shahidi, Chloe X Halle and Niecy Nash. While discussing her work, Akers offered some fashion advice and revealed the one must-have item that all women should have in their closets.
“It’s definitely a blazer,” she told us. “A strong blazer is my go-to. I feel like the most powerful in my suit, monochromatic suiting and colored suiting. So, I feel like [the best choice is] a jacket for sure, whether it’s worn with a T-shirt, dressed up or dressed down.”
As it turns out, one of Akers’s favorite new pieces happens to be her mixed-media blazer, which was created in partnership with Macy’s. In an effort to introduce more diverse design talent, Macy’s recently launched Icons Of Style, a limited-edition collaboration with five Black designers, including Misa Hylton, Aminah Abdul Jillil, Allen Onyia and Ouigi Theodore.
Akers said, “It’s a black and brown blazer, color-blocked with a black ponti on top and a faux leather on the bottom, and then the bottom piece unzips off. You can wear it hanging or you could unzip the whole piece off and there’s this really cute, cropped jacket with the exposed zipper detail. It can go over any dress or with a tee and jeans.” Talk about a versatile piece of clothing.
And for those of us who are still trying to figure out our personal style, Akers suggests “exploring different colors in your go-to styles.” She added, “Never be afraid of trying new accessories, a cool pair of earrings can really transform a look.” Duly noted.