

When thinking of basics, I tend to think of a plain white, neutral or black staple that can be worn with just about anything in my wardrobe. From white tees to denim jeans, these are the type of classics most of us already own which means it's time to think outside the box when refreshing our mix of summer basics.
After a tumultuous 15 months, I'm seeing a new trend emerge in the world of everyday fashion that I can only attribute to the excitement of getting dressed with somewhere to go. One of my favorites this season, the asymmetrical knit has been on my radar for the past few months and I'm loving how this simple yet chic detail can quickly elevate a look especially when paired with other cool basics.
This season is an era of sexy "basics" reminiscent of the early 2000's fashion evolution, full of risky decisions yet quirky perspectives on styles, brands today are redefining what it means to wear basics. Gone are the days of blending in, these are the knit basics that will effortlessly stand out.
Now Trending: White on White
One of my favorite looks this season, this white on white combination is an effortlessly sleek look with a one shoulder knit tank paired with super lightweight utility pants. Both top and bottom from Black-owned lifestyle brand, Local European, are a reimagining of classic staples. I love the combination of an asymmetrical design and knit tank top.
The lightweight wide leg bottoms are a trend on the rise as we transition from oversized knit sweatpants for a cooler summer option. Paired with another summer must-have, a black thong sandal is the last and final touch.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Now Trending: Wide Leg
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Another chic and easy way to pair an asymmetrical top this summer is with a wide leg denim jean. The perfect casual look when out and about town or heading to a local farmers market, I decided to wear a fun one-toe flat slide for an even more stylish approach. With a pop of color and my go-to square sunnies, this is one of the most comfortable chic looks.
Now Trending: Maximalism
All basics may not be created equal but there are options for everyone, including maximalists. For those that need color in their everyday lives, this vibrantly orange one shoulder knit is a fierce choice for an edgier take on a casual look. Pairing this new age asymmetrical knit top with a classic cargo is a balanced approach to this season's one shoulder trend. Having fun, I added a yellow thong sandal to complete this color-blocked look.
Read all about fashion and style here.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Images by Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Adrian Marcel On Purpose, Sacrifice, And The 'Signs Of Life'
In this week's episode of xoMAN, host Kiara Walker talked with R&B artist Adrian Marcel, who opened up, full of heart and authenticity, about his personal evolution. He discussed his days transitioning from a young Bay Area singer on the come-up to becoming a grounded husband and father of four.
With honesty and introspection, Marcel reflected on how life, love, and loss have shaped the man he is today.
On ‘Life’s Subtle Signals’
Much of the conversation centered around purpose, sacrifice, and listening to life’s subtle signals. “I think that you really have to pay attention to the signs of life,” Marcel said. “Because as much as we need to make money, we are not necessarily on this Earth for that sole purpose, you know what I mean?” While he acknowledged his ambitions, adding, “that is not me saying at all I’m not trying to ball out,” he emphasized that fulfillment goes deeper.
“We are here to be happy. We are here [to] fulfill a purpose that we are put on here for.”
On Passion vs. Survival
Adrian spoke candidly about the tension between passion and survival, describing how hardship can sometimes point us away from misaligned paths. “If you find it’s constantly hurting you… that’s telling you something. That’s telling you that you’re going outside of your purpose.”
Marcel’s path hasn’t been without detours. A promising athlete in his youth, he recalled, “Early on in my career, I was still doing sports… I was good… I had a scholarship.” An injury changed everything. “My femur broke. Hence why I always say, you know, I’m gonna keep you hip like a femur.” After the injury, he pivoted to explore other careers, including teaching and corporate jobs.
“It just did not get me—even with any success that happened in anything—those times, back then, I was so unhappy. And you know, to a different degree. Like not just like, ‘I really want to be a singer so that’s why I’m unhappy.’ Nah, it was like, it was not fulfilling me in any form or fashion.”
On Connection Between Pursuing Music & Fatherhood
He recalled performing old-school songs at age 12 to impress girls, then his father challenged him: “You can lie to these girls all you want, but you're really just lying to yourself. You ain't growing.” That push led him to the piano—and eventually, to his truth. “Music is my love,” Marcel affirmed. “I wouldn’t be a happy husband if I was here trying to do anything else just to appease her [his wife].”
Want more real talk from xoMAN? Catch the full audio episodes every Tuesday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don’t miss the full video drops every Wednesday on YouTube. Hit follow, subscribe, and stay tapped in.
Featured image by xoNecole/YouTube
Ashley Versher is known for her work in the Tyler Perry's Beauty In Black series and more recently, she starred alongside Taraji P. Henson in the Netflix film Straw. But she is more than just her acting credits and stunning looks (her hair alone is everything). In an xoNecole exclusive, Ashley dishes on her first celebrity crush, how she spends her downtime, and her go-to haircare products because we need the deets.
Get to know Ashley below.
xoNecole: Where are you from?
Ashley Versher: San Francisco - BAY AREAAAAAA!!!!
xoN: What was your first major acting role?
AV: A 49ers Super Bowl commercial - I think I was 3.
Ashley Versher
Johnny Marlow
xoN: Have you ever had an embarrassing or funny audition story? If so, what happened?
AV: Yes! I was doing a self-tape once and I forgot to take off my bonnet. But the tape was so good I sent it in anyway.
xoN: Your hair is gorgeous. What has it been like navigating Hollywood with natural hair?
AV: Thank you so much! Navigating Hollywood with natural hair has definitely been a journey of self-discovery. Early on, I had to make a conscious decision about how I wanted to show up—not just in this industry, but for myself. Once I fully embraced my natural hair and committed to the journey, everything else began to align. It’s been nothing short of empowering.
Navigating Hollywood with natural hair has definitely been a journey of self-discovery. Early on, I had to make a conscious decision about how I wanted to show up—not just in this industry, but for myself.
xoN: What are your favorite go-to hair products?
AV: Ooooooo, right now I’m loving Camille Rose’s Jai Twisting Butter—it’s super moisturizing and gives me a fun, bouncy twist-out! I’ve also recently gotten into oils, and I’m especially loving sweet almond oil.
xoN: We know you as an actress, but what is another special talent you have that most people don't know about?
AV: I trained as a classical violinist for 13/14years.
xoN: Who is your hero?
AV: My mom. She’s incredible - full stop.
Ashley Versher
Johnny Marlow
xoN: How do you like to spend your down time?
AV: Ha! What’s that!? Jk jk, I love to travel, that’s honestly my favorite thing.
xoN: Who was your first celebrity crush?
AV: Prince.
xoN: What is your dream role?
AV: One day I will play a witch with Harry Potter-like powers!
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Feature image by Johnny Marlow