For the Soft but Smart Girl: Chess-Themed Finds for Your Wardrobe & Workspace

There’s a new aesthetic in town, and she wears black and white. Chess core is having “the” moment, and it’s not just for those who know how to play the game or call out a Sicilian Defence. This style is for girls who love adding brainy finesse to their look.

Most of these aesthetic chess finds are available on Amazon or international sites, and we know that’s not always the easiest for Nigerian girlies. If you’re ordering, consider buying bulk with friends to save on shipping. You can even customise your own locally for some items like shirts, books, or laptop cases. 

Here’s your starter pack for joining the chess core elite without memorising any of the plays.

Quintessence

₦50,000

Every aesthetic girl deserves a beautiful chess set, not plastic. A wooden chessboard instantly elevates your desk or shelf space, making you look cultured, composed, and creative. 

This set brings this African energy to your home and makes you look grounded in your culture. 

It doesn’t matter if you play or just like the aura; this is the centrepiece of the entire look. It’s giving antique library/museum meets Pinterest girl. Plus, you get to entertain guests who enjoy it on game night.

Amazon

$9.99

Notebooks are more than just pages; they're accessories (all my writer-girlies in the house would know this). A coloured checkered spiral notebook feels both academic and stylish. 

You could be journaling, planning content, or pretending to write your next bestseller at the office, and it would say you’re that girl who thinks in strategy. The chessboard pattern screams nerdy, but the colour and spiral design keep it casual and cute.

Amazon

$26.99

These are for the bookshelf baddies. Sculpted to look like knights or queens, these bookends add luxury to your space. It says you have taste and a TBR list.

It also turns your shelf into a statement and your books into part of the aesthetic.

Amazon

$18.99

This is not your average graphic tee. A well-designed chess shirt can effortlessly balance nerdy and cool. Opt for minimalist prints with chess motifs like pieces, boards, or short quotes, like the one above.

Wear it with jeans, skirts, or under a blazer. 

Amazon (MacBook Air only)

$24.69

Amazon

$32.49

Your tech deserves to be as stylish as you. A chess-print laptop sleeve or hard case keeps things interesting while protecting your gear.

It’s a practical, bold conversation starter at work or school. 

Amazon

$33.99

A tote or mini bag with checkered patterns or embroidered chess pieces adds polish to any outfit. It’s a cute way to carry your world around while keeping the vibe consistent. There’s also this thing where people think if you play chess, you’re smart. If you lean into the stereotype, this can be a way to announce your IQ wherever you go.

It’s subtle enough to work with different outfits, and bold enough to stand out.

If you want to commit to the aesthetic, do it on your fingertips. A mix of black, white, and nude with delicate chess patterns ( pawns, rooks, or tiny boards) can be low-key or loud, depending on your preference.

Your nails become part of your outfit, and every hand gesture is now a flex.

Amazon

$8.99

Underrated but elite. Socks with a chessboard print or even embroidered pieces peeking out of your sneakers or loafers? Pure style points.

Great for layering with other outfits, especially in the rainy season or for indoor girl comfort. Cosy, cute, and coordinated.

Amazon

$24.99

I have to say this one's purely for the vibes. A high-waisted pleated skirt short in a checkered pattern gives off the right energy. Pair it with knee-high socks, boots, or a button-up for full Pinterest energy.

It's feminine, fun, and surprisingly versatile. If you’re not into complete looks, pair it with a basic tee and still look cute.

You don’t need to be a chess master to look like one. These aesthetic pieces bring the checkered charm into everyday life, giving a cool girl with cultured taste. Nails, notebooks, or a complete checkered outfit, the chess aesthetic is a trend worth playing into.

Your move, queen.