|
We hear it all the time: “I want to step up my personal style but I just don’t know where to begin...yadda yadda yadda.” It’s a common challenge and one that few ever take the initiative to move past. So many people go shopping aimlessly, season after season, reaching for items that they find cool or flattering without ever thinking of the bigger picture. What ends up happening is a hodgepodge wardrobe full of mismatched items, ranging in styles and eras that can’t possibly become a cohesive collection. The intention is there, but the execution is just a big fat fail.
This month’s column is all about taking a step back and building a wardrobe foundation that allows for mixing and matching for any occasion while still being able to add in those signature pieces that you just can’t live without. This is by no means an instant fix. The 25 essentials below will serve as your blank canvas. After that, it’s up to you to add the pops of color, culture, tradition and fun that will take your wardrobe from functional to fabulous.
*Scroll through the 25 essentials below or click on the image for our super-size slideshow!
1. The Anywhere Jean
Choose a slim-fit, straight-leg jean in a clean, crisp denim and a dark-navy (almost black) wash for a versatile and transitional pant. These Levi’s 514 waterless jeans are a perfect fit.
2. The Classic Chino
They’re classic for a reason! Look for a medium-toned khaki in a plain front and slim-fit version like these from Paul Smith.
3. The Every Day Suit
Single breasted two-button suits like these by Hugo Boss never go out of style. Start with black and then add blue and grey.
4. The Unlined Sport Coat
Go unlined and casual in a grey cotton or corduroy like this one by Dolce & Gabbana for a perfect transitional topper. Available at Mr. Porter.
5. The Perfect Cotton Henley
Go for a three-quarter length sleeve in grey or white like this John Varvatos version. Perfect for layering and adding dimension to any look.
6. The Extra Layer
For those colder nights, keep a long-sleeved thermal in grey or white to throw on under a T-shirt or button up. With a Henley collar like this one by American Apparel brings the perfect balance to the overall look.
7. The Ironic Rocker Tee
Nothing makes more fashion sense for running to the store or grabbing a beer with the buds than a ridiculous concert T like this bjork gem. (Or Dolly, whichevs.) Get yours at Acid Merch.
8. The Basic Cotton Polo
Keeping things clean and simple, Fred Perry is a great option for any outing—and is a dignified way of showing off them guns. Also try Ralph Lauren and even the Gap.
9. The Mr. Rogers Sweater
Rock your cardigan with a tie or add it as an extra layer under a sport coat. Mr. Rogers has never looked so sexy. Get yours at Banana Republic.
10. The Impossibly Soft Pullover
Get them in any color you can. These puppies make sense in every season and in cashmere, like this one by Ralph Lauren, you’ll never want to take the softness off your skin.
11. The Perfect Peacoat
What was good enough for old man river is good enough for us. No other jacket is as all-purpose and completely cool no matter how you wear it. Simon Spurr makes some amazing versions.
12. The Crisp White Oxford
This is a man shirt. From Paul Newman to Paul Walker, it is impossible to not look sexy in this American staple. JCrew is the obvious go-to retailer.
13. The Sexy Chambray Shirt
Not just for cowboys anymore, the Chambray shirt works on its own, thrown into a suit or rolled up over a T-shirt. It’s the Oxford’s equally talented understudy.
14. The All-American Striped Shirt
Whether with an ultra-wide tie or as a cover up by the pool, the striped shirt belongs in your closet. And no one makes this classic quite like Gant.
15. The Travelers Best Friend
We don’t need to explain why this is important: convenience and flexibility is key. The above is by Aboud, but virtually every department store on earth sells them. Just remember—shoes match the belt match the watch.
16. The Shit Kickers
From the coal mines to the streets of New York, you need a shoe that can work. These 1000-mile boots by Wolverine are insanely beautiful and the perfect anchor to your pedestrian life.
17. The Brown Dress Shoe
If you stick to cap toes and wing tips your dress shoes will have enough texture and style to them to be able to be worn with your jeans and chinos just as well as your new black suit. There are tons of options like these Church’s on MrPorter.com.
18. The Black Dress Shoe
You can’t have the brown without the black. These beautiful McQueen Wingtips are show stoppers and a must for any evening ensemble.
19. The Bum-Around-Town Shoes
Every man needs a canvas shoe. Forget about laces, forget about keeping them clean, just find yourself a good lightweight pair you can slip on and get out the door in. Varvatos makes these fantastic shoes for sale at Converse.
20. The Un-Black Sock
Forget black! Bright designer socks are the easiest way to give a little kick to any outfit. Happy Feet is my favorite company of late offering all kinds of colors and patterns.
21. The All Occasion Tie
You can never have too many. Unless the tie is the best thing ever—don’t spend more than $50. But be sure to buy many! You need knit ties, bow ties and slim ties in as many colors as you can get your hands on. Try TheTieBar.com.
22. The Hide-Under Hat
Take note from your favorite celebrity: A baseball cap is the best disguise and an ultra-chic way to keep things casual and low pro. I love a hip-hop inspired flat bill and enjoy pairing it with more uptown clothes. Find all kinds like this Crooks and Castle cap at Karmaloop.
23. The Jaunty Hat
Unlike the Hide-under, a jaunty hat is all about stepping out by day and having a little fun. Whether you opt for an ivy cap like this one from Original Penguin or a felt fedora, the look is casual, cool and fun.
24. The Gentleman’s Scarf
Mancessories are often a no go. The cashmere scarf, like this little number by Bottega Veneta, however, is an exception to that rule, offering cool layer to any outfit while keeping things all warm and cozy.
25. The Chill-Out Shorts
Grown men shouldn’t wear shorts often unless they play a sport for a living. On a hot summer day though, you need to have a dignified pair or two in your wardrobe. Keep them above the knee—but just a little. Try this pair from Topman in navy or khaki.
 |
