15 Things Every Man Should Have in His Wardrobe

Seasons come and go, but good style is timeless. A man’s wardrobe isn’t something that should evolve by accident, focus should be paid to the pieces of clothing and accessories that make up gentleman’s wardrobe. The basic essentials that should constitute a wardrobe is not particularly long. Here are the 15 things every man should have in his wardrobe.

1. A Navy Suit

You can’t show up to court, a wedding, or any number of other smart evening occasions in a pair of jeans. For those occasions turn instead to a blue, two-button, single-breasted suit. A gray suit is also an equally acceptable choice to get you through most of life’s more business-dress occasions.

2. A Silk Tie

While having an ample supply of ties to choose from is always acceptable, in truth a plain colored silk tie is the only tie you’ll ever need. This wardrobe essential is a classic accessory that will go with every single suit combination and formal occasion. With a solid color there’s no rush of pattern clashing, just a subtle dose of texture.

3. A White Dress Shirt

An absolute must in all gentlemen’s wardrobes. From job interviews to weddings, you can’t go wrong with a white dress shirt. Wear it open-collared with chinos or with a suit and tie.

4. A Pink or Blue Shirt

You can’t wear white all the time. A classic dress shirt in a light color, such as pink or blue, will perfectly compliment a work look or casual weekend attire.

5. A Polo Shirt

Whether you wear a long sleeved or short sleeved polo shirt, it remains a wardrobe cornerstone because it works with so many things. The polo shirt allows you to keep it formal with a collar but slightly sporty. Pair it with jeans or throw it under a sport coat.

6. An Oxford Cloth Button Down

An Oxford shirt is one thing that looks effortlessly stylish on pretty much everyone. It’s versatile enough to stand on its own or slip underneath a sport coat. Make sure you choose a crisp, slim-fit Oxford shirt. One made of good-quality cotton will only get better with age.

7. Plain White T-Shirt

A plain white T-shirt is the perfect thing to wear to make a statement, subtle or bold. Find one that fits your body and wear it under a lightweight jacket or even on its own. Team it with jeans for the ultimate cool weekend look. Choose the highest quality version you can find.

8. Raw Denim Jeans

Every man needs a good pair of jeans, and you can’t go wrong with one in classic blue. Perhaps the most versatile item in a gentleman’s wardrobe, jeans can be worn with just about anything. A pair of sturdy selvage denim jeans will mold to your body over time, and get better and better with every wear.

9. Chinos

Start by remembering that khaki is a color while chino is a cloth. You can get chinos in a wide range of colors, but a neutral pair are perfect for casual Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. They are just as easily worn with a classic shirt and blazer as they are thrown on with a T-shirt.

10. Two Belts

Every man needs two really good belts. Choose one black belt and one brown belt, each made from a sturdy leather, and you’ll be set.

11. Black Dress Shoes

Classic black leather dress shoes are the ideal accompaniment for gentlemen who understand fashion starts from the feet up. Choose a pair of minimal cap toe lace ups, and they will take you anywhere in life you want to go.

12. A Pea Coat

A pea coat is an old marine standby, remade for stylish modern men. While top coats get stuffy, pea coats are a lot easier to wear.

13. A Cashmere Sweater

A beautiful cashmere sweater is truly evergreen. A sweater like this will keep you warmer than lambswool or merino because the material is softer and lighter. A cashmere sweater will also last longer than anything else in your closet.

14. Sunglasses

A pair of polarized sunglasses are the perfect accompaniment to the rest of your gentleman’s wardrobe essentials. Not only do they protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays, but they add an unmistakable touch of style to whatever you’re wearing.

15. A Timepiece

Nothing is more elegant than checking the time on a wristwatch.

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