Style is about more than what we wear—it’s about confidence, storytelling, and expressing who we are before we ever say a word. Celebrity stylist Bryon Javar has built his career helping clients do exactly that, creating standout fashion moments for stars like Marsai Martin, Halle Bailey, and more. But during yesterday’s styling workshop at Essence Festival, the focus wasn’t on celebrity dressing—it was on empowering the everyday woman to tap into that same sense of confidence through her wardrobe.

Throughout the masterclass, Javar broke down his styling philosophy, reminding attendees that “the rules are simple.” From the importance of fit and proportion to investing in timeless staples, he shared practical advice that anyone can apply, regardless of budget. He also revealed his five holy-grail wardrobe essentials that every woman should own, proving that building great style starts with a strong foundation—not an overflowing closet.

Below for the break down. 

Invest in quality undergarments

Great style starts with a solid foundation. Knowing your correct bra size and investing in quality shapewear, like a great pair of Spanx, can completely transform the way your clothes fit, creating a smoother silhouette and giving every outfit a more polished finish.

Purchase timeless pieces, not trends 

Focus on building a wardrobe with classic staples that you’ll reach for year after year. Trends come and go, but well-made essentials never go out of style.

Walk into every room as your most confident self 

The best accessory you’ll ever wear is confidence. No matter what you’re wearing, owning your look is what truly makes an outfit memorable.

Choose items that can be interchangeable

Build your wardrobe around versatile essentials that can be mixed and matched with ease. A well-tailored blazer, quality denim, and a great white tank are timeless staples that serve as the foundation for countless outfits, making it easy to create polished looks without constantly buying something new.

Do not over purchase, wear your closet

Before buying something new, think about what you already own. Shopping your own closet and reimagining familiar pieces is one of the easiest ways to create fresh looks while making the most of your wardrobe.

Author: Mecca Pryor

Read the original article on Essence.