15 Oct
It’s not always easy to figure out a style all your own. Even for a guy with a solid fashion sense, putting together a few go-to outfits takes thought, time, and inevitably, money.
You want to make sure the investment you’re making in your clothes is a good one for you, especially if you are aiming for quality products where costs can quickly add up.
But regardless of what look you eventually arrive at, there are some standards, like basic T-shirts and jeans, that every guy should have in his closet. These are the building blocks on which you can develop a personal style.
If you’re in the middle of refreshing your closet for the summer season, or fresh out of college and ready to ditch your undergraduate outfits in favor of something more fitting for the professional workplace, take a quick look and see what's currently missing from your wardrobe.
1. Basic T-shirt
Why you need it: A simple standard, you need a few basic tees just to be practical. Without them, you’ll continue pulling out junk shirts you got for free at some giveaway as your undershirts.
How to wear it: As an undershirt for your nicer shirts so you don’t ruin them with sweat every time you go outside this summer. Also, when you’re lounging around the house and comfort is of the utmost importance.
2. Jeans
Why you need it: The most reliable of all pants. A quality pair of jeans serves as a neutral palette that you can take in many different directions. Great jeans are low maintenance and one of the most important utility articles of clothing any guy can have.
How to wear it: Pair them with a button-down shirt and loafers for the workplace, if your office allows it. Or if you’re planning a cool summer day at the park, just throw on your favorite T-shirt and a pair of sneakers, and you’re good to go.
3. Zip-up hoodie
Why you need it: For every day that isn’t one of the top ten hottest or coldest days of the year, a zip-up hoodie will keep you comfortable. Also, speaking from personal experience, for lounging around on the weekends.
How to wear it: However you like.
4. Boat shoes
Why you need it: For the days that you’re running late to work and don’t have time to bother with tying laces. Also, if you ever end up on a boat.
How to wear it: Depending on your style and setting, you can rock boat shoes with or without socks. It’s a debate we don’t have time to fully settle here, but know that both sides make valid arguments. Wear them with your chinos, an oxford shirt with the sleeves rolled up, and a pair of wayfarers, and you can be out the door.
5. Navy blazer
Why you need it: Not every formal occasion calls for a suit, but showing up in just a collared shirt would be inappropriate as well. A navy blazer can add a bit of class to any look.
How to wear it: The best part of having a navy blazer you trust in your closet is you can throw it over anything and look presentable to the outside world. It feels very much at home with your oxford shirts and chinos. For a casual night out, though, pair it with jeans and Nikes, and you’ll still be the best-dressed one of your friends.
6. Khakis or chinos
Why you need it: As much as you’d like to, you can’t wear jeans everyday. Khakis or chinos are great for all seasons.
How to wear it: Pair your chinos with a button-down shirt and sport coat if you’re going for the country club look, or just throw on a white tee and boat shoes and you’re ready for the marina.
7. Versatile leather watch
Why you need it: To tell the time and show off that you know how to accessorize like an adult.
How to wear it: The best thing to do is keep your watch fairly simple. That way, it can look at home on your wrist whether you’re wearing jeans or a three-piece suit.
8. Charcoal suit
Why you need it: Because you never know when you'll be called upon by the universe to Suit Up.
How to wear it: With confidence and swagger.
9. Solid blue dress shirt
Why you need it: The blue dress shirt is the ultimate go-to for work.
How to wear it: Tucked in with jeans or dress pants and a quality belt.
10. White dress shirt
Why you need it: The starting point of every neutral work look in your closet. When an event calls for a shirt and tie, this is your shirt.
How to wear it: With your suit, or just with a tie, or with a few buttons undone, depending on your environment. As long as you’re not wearing sweatpants, basically any bottom will go with it.
11. Black dress lace-ups
Why you need it: Because you can’t wear your suit barefoot.
How to wear it: With your dark suit (obviously), but also with jeans and a button-up if you’re going for a night on the town. Also, pro tip: don’t get black lace-ups if they don’t immediately feel like your best pair of dancing shoes. Your future self will thank me at the next wedding you attend.
12. Brown dress slip-ons
Why you need it: So you don’t have to wear your black dress shoes with your khakis when you’re getting dressed up. Plus, they’re perfect for any and every business-casual event.
How to wear it: With your khakis, chinos, or jeans, and basically any top you like, depending on where you’re heading. Bonus points if you pair it with a brown belt.
13. Down vest
Why you need it: Weather is crazy and staying warm can be difficult when the temperature fluctuates 30 degrees over the course of one day.
How to wear it: On a cool spring night, throw it over whatever shirt you were already wearing for a bit of insulation. Come the winter, your down vest will be one of the best assets you have while layering to manage your warmth.
14. Casual stripe or plaid button-down shirt
Why you need it: Because not every button-up you own needs to be formal wear that could potentially slip under a suit.
How to wear it: Pair it with your jeans and boat shoes.
15. Sneakers
Why you need it: Exercising, or just walking around and looking fresh.
How to wear it: If you’re hitting the gym, just do you — far be it from me to tell someone how to workout.
