Often, many people tend to think quantity is best for your wardrobe. Having a little bit of everything you may need may sound like a good idea, but it is actually entirely unnecessary. However, there are a few essentials that every guy should own.
These range from a great cologne to a pair of men’s dress shoes. While some stuff is up to personal choice, here are 12 things you should have in your wardrobe.
1. Navy/Black/Grey Suit
Whether you work in an office environment or not, there comes a time when every guy must buy a suit. As you get older, you will get invited to weddings, formal events, parties, funerals, and other events that will require formal attire.
Some interviews will also require a suit, even if that isn’t the company’s dress code. It doesn’t need to be expensive; just ensure it fits right.
2. Tie, Bow Tie, Pocket Square
Once you have a suit, you will need the three most essential suit accessories, a tie, a bow tie, and a pocket square. Not only do these items add class to your suit, but they also allow you to adapt your suit for different occasions.
A tie can be worn when you need a suit for work, a bow tie for a very formal event, and a pocket square can be added for a date night or a semi-formal event.
3. Dress Shoes
The final piece of formal attire you need is a pair of dress shoes. These can be Oxfords, brogues, or anything else you like, as long as they are leather. A simple rule is that black shoes match black and grey suits, while darker browns are great for blue and navy suits.
4. Sneakers
Every guy should own at least one pair of stylish sneakers. Even if it is just one pair, picking out a pair of Chuck Taylor’s, Air Force 1’s, or Air Jordans is a way to wear casual footwear without sacrificing style.
5. Fitted Jeans
A pair of fitted jeans is a must for any man’s wardrobe. They don’t have to be skinny or bootleg or any particular style; they can also be either blue or black, even grey. As long as they fit properly, that’s all that matters.
Jeans are also incredibly versatile as you can wear them on a date to a family lunch or pair them with a dinner jacket for a simple yet stylish semi-formal look.
6. Crew Neck Sweater
A crew neck sweater is another classic item that is a staple for a reason. They come in a variety of colors and patterns; they look good on every body shape and can also be worn in both casual and formal settings without looking out of place in either.
7. Cologne
Every man needs a good bottle of cologne. Once again, it doesn’t have to be anything expensive, but it should be something that has a pleasing scent and is long-lasting. There is no “correct” cologne to choose either, as it is all down to personal choice.
If you don’t have a preferred scent yet, spend a few minutes smelling them at a store. You can often try them on, allowing you to smell them for a few hours before deciding which you prefer.
8. Leather Belt
A leather belt is another must-have accessory that you should never be without. A simple rule when wearing one, a belt should always match your shoes. This rule is especially important when wearing suits, as not following it can often lead to your suit not looking as put together as it should.
9. Travel Bag
A simple travel bag is a must if you go to the gym, regularly travel for short periods, or go for weekends away. Find one that is big enough to hold at least three days’ worth of clothes, as well as enough room for your shoes and toiletries.
10. Wallet
A simple accessory whose power shouldn’t be underestimated is a wallet. A leather wallet says a lot about the person who owns it. Think about the image a thin leather wallet presents, compared to that of a velcro one with Superman on the front.
While this is a personal choice once again, if you are someone who wants to appear professional, or you work in an environment that requires it, these small details matter.
11. Grooming Kit
Whether you have a beard or shave every day, you should have a grooming kit of some description. A high-quality razor, aftershave, beard balm, whatever it may be, it should be stocked for your needs.
12. Watch
Many believe a man who wears a watch sends out a certain message and image. People who wear nice watches are viewed as reliable, informed, and professional, and they know what they are doing.
Once again, you do not have to own the best Rolex or Richard Mille money can buy, but you should own a watch that is stylish, simple and catches the eye of those who see it. A watch should be seen as an accessory that ties a look together, not the focus of a look.
