Your wardrobe starts here: Back to basics

Our round-up of ten key items that every man should own.

 

Written by Robert Sam-Kputu

 

Trends come and go, but classics remain with good reason. Ensure that you have these style staples in your wardrobe and you’ll be able to easily mix and match new-season trends with your existing basics.

 

1. Blue jeans

Since the day they hit the scene, jeans have been one of the most iconic pieces of clothing ever created and a crucial part of any man’s wardrobe, suitable for both casual and semi-formal settings.

Although denim is now available in an array of colours, a classic pair of indigo blue slim straight jeans is a must.

 

2. A white T-shirt

A crisp white T-shirt is another long-adored wardrobe winner. Keep it laidback by pairing with chino shorts or wear one beneath a suit jacket paired with jeans or long pants for something a little smarter.

While there are a variety of T-shirt styles available – from graphic and branded to loose and fitted, which all have their place – you can’t go wrong with a plain, well-fitting white tee (or three).

 

3. A suit

Dress codes may not be as formal as they used to be, but a suit is still non-negotiable. From business meetings to weddings, a great suit will serve you well for many occasions.

 

4. A dress shirt

Coupled with a suit, chinos or even a pair of jeans with the right cut, a well-fitting dress shirt is ideal for work or semi-formal events. Make sure it’s always perfectly ironed, with not a crease in sight.

 

5. Chinos

For both work and play, a good pair of chinos will take you places. When a suit is too formal, wear them with a dress shirt and a blazer. For a more relaxed setting they also work well with an open-collared golfer or a short sleeved shirt.

 

6. A hoodie

The hoodie has earned its place in closets year-round, especially when the mercury drops. This versatile comfort piece can be layered underneath a jacket for a smart-casual look, or worn on its own to keep you warm and stylish no matter the time of year.

 

7. Sweatpants

A companion to the hoodie, sweatpants are all about comfort. A solid pair of grey or black sweatpants should be in every man’s wardrobe – especially suited to running errands, for wearing to the gym, and for relaxing around the house.

 

8. A jacket

Whether biker, bomber, or letterman, a jacket can instantly pull an outfit together and add a little edge. Pair with jeans, layered over a T-shirt, a hoodie or a vest.

 

9. White Sneakers

Shoes are a crucial part of any outfit, and every wardrobe needs a good pair of white court sneakers. Extremely versatile, they work from the office to after-hours, the party to the playground. Keep them clean and crisp, ready for any occasion.

 

10. A tie

The finishing touch to a smart outfit and a great way to inject your personality, a tie is an absolute necessity.

 

 

While your wardrobe will evolve as trends come in and out of fashion, these ten basics are timeless.