There are certain items in a gentleman's closet that remain indispensable. I have put together a few basics that no guy should be without. For me, it’s not about the trends, it’s about how you put the pieces together. From classic pieces like blazers, oxford shirts and a great pair of jeans, remember that key transitional pieces play an important role in your closet, no matter what your personal style is.
THE ESSENTIALS
The Oxford
The versatility of these button-down shirts is endless. From long sleeve to short sleeve, they can be worn dressed up with a tie and casual suit or dressed down with jeans.
From an array of colors and cuts to choose from, oxford shirts are known to be an all-rounder staple piece in your closet.
Non-Collared Casual Shirts
A good selection of neutral colors such as white, black, grey, navy, olive green, and brown will set the foundation for your
non- collared t shirts and Henley's.
Forget graphic t-shirts as it’s too casual and gives a childish vibe.
Polo Shirts
Unlike a t-shirt, Polos always give a more polished classier look. Style with shorts, jeans or chinos.
These timeless pieces give a smart casual look no matter your age or body type.
Sweat Shirt > Jumper > Pull Over (whatever you call it)
Sweatshirts give a cool preppy look that is naturally easy to just throw on. From wearing it on its own or laying with other pieces (weather permitting).
Remember to take into account your choice of fabric and always choose neutral colors to play on your style.
The Versatile Trouser - Chinos
Choosing the right pair of pants are essential in a guy’s closet. Fit, color and style all count when putting the final look together.
You want an around the clock trouser that is versatile and comfortable, that’s where the classic chino comes in.
Chinos are a great alternative to jeans or suit pants and you can wear it all the time like you would wear a pair of jeans, think navy slim fit.
Chinos will seamlessly fit into your casualwear; you can style with any of the above shirts to up your style game.
Shorts
As comfortable as athleisure shorts are, nothing screams classy like a pair of Chino Shorts.
Go the neutral way with beige or navy blue, you will definitely turn heads at the next event.
If you live in country where it's warm all year round, having some chino variety will give you an edge over others.
Classic Blue / Black Jeans
Blue (or black) jeans have been a classic from the beginning of denim. When I say classic, I mean a plain medium to dark wash (for blue jeans), no rips or prints or any other additives that are attached to denim now a days lol.
Dress it up or down, jeans can be styled in whichever way you want. My advice would be, pay attention to the fit and stretch!
Blazers & Sport Jackets
Blazers and Sport Jackets are somewhere in between a cardigan and a suit jacket when it comes to comfort.
Go from casual to elegant by the slip of a blazer.
A perfect smart-casual look that can be paired with chinos or jeans to give your daytime look some more flair.
The Suit
When choosing a suit, its also important to know what type of shirt to wear under the jacket. That would be a dress shirt.
Dress shirts would usually be a solid color, some can be pinstriped, it has not more than one pocket and no distinctive features.
Suits should be elegant; the fit should be the most critical when buying as I believe that if you invest in a staple color suit it would last you a lifetime for any occasion.
Essential Footwear
Your shoes depends on your lifestyle and the climate where you live. Here are the
go-to's:
Classic White Sneaker: An overall polished look.
Dress Sneaker: Usually black.
Casual Sneaker: Have fun with it, think gym shoes.
Loafers: Casual & Formal.
Oxfords: Formal Occasions.
Signature Accessories
Statement Watch: If you’re not ready to make the move on an investment watch, don’t you worry there are tons of options that give the expensive look without the expensive price point, perfect for your formal outfits or go for a style that looks good with everything.
Perfect Pair of Sunnies: A timeless style that you can wear throughout the seasons and matches your face shape. See Previous Post Throw Some Shade On It.
Card Holder: Maybe not for everyday use if you keep cash, but it’s perfect for carrying the bare necessities.
Cufflinks: Not an absolute essential, personally I love when I guy wears cufflinks to a formal event.
Style Tip: Make sure the color cufflinks match your jewelry.
Leather Belt: A staple black and brown belt are essential, no need for the big logo buckles.
Style Tip: Never wear black leather accessories with brown leather or gold-tone metal with silver. Pick which you prefer and collect a matching set (or two).
Ties: Don’t wait for an event to buy a tie. To get the most wearing out it, go for a black skinny tie.
Cologne: Finish your look with a nice spritz. See my previous post Men's Fragrance.
Your style is not limited or subjected to this, think of these essentials as a step into your sustainable wardrobe, once you have the basics, putting together the pieces comes naturally.
- Phaedra Adele x.
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