Key Staples Every Modern Professional Man Needs in His Closet
Whether you're on a mission to overhaul your wardrobe or simply looking to incorporate a few extra pieces, timeless pieces serve as the cornerstone for a flexible and functional wardrobe.
Let's delve deeper into the key staple pieces needed you’ll need to start crafting a highly versatile wardrobe you’ll love.
The Staple Suit
A gray notch lapel suit is the crème de la crème of men's suiting, making it a definite must have for any man’s wardrobe.
It’s versatile, highly transitional and works perfectly for any type of special event (wedding, funeral, business meeting etc…). Whether you find yourself in a suit daily or not, you’ll want to have this one ready for all your special occasions.
A medium gray or charcoal suit is a timeless choice that’ll compliment any man's style, regardless of body type. It’s simple, yet timeless appeal makes it a definite mainstay for your wardrobe.
Upgrade your look by making sure to correctly coordinate your tie and pocket square for added style.
2. White Dress Shirt
Putting your best foot forward is the key to great style and the right type of dress shirt is sure to help with that.
A dress shirt is the perfect option being that it will easily transition you from a day in the office to a night out on the town.
Wear it with a blazer for your next business meeting or with a classic bomber jacket for the perfect after hours look.
Just remember to pay close attention to the way it fits; that’s to be top priority when it comes to choosing the right dress shirt.
3. Leather Dress Shoes
Grab yourself a nice pair of lace-up dress shoes that you can wear for a variety of occasions.
A black pair will go perfectly with your gray suit, but if you’d prefer a navy suit, which is just as versatile, you’ll need dark brown dress shoes instead.
The best thing about a dress shoe is that you’ll never be limited to only wearing them with suits.
Team them with a crewneck sweater, a collared shirt and a crisp pair of solid colored jeans for the perfect business-casual look.
4. Dark Wash Jeans
A pair of dark-colored jeans are an absolute must-have. They’re such a classic item that’ll instantly take your look to a whole new level.
A lot of men tend to gravitate toward faded, light colored, baggy or tight fitting jeans which never looks great.
A clean, well-fitting, sharp pair of denim will serve you well so be sure to at the very least, own one.
4. Solid Colored White T- Shirt
A simple white t shirt is a classic item, and for damn good reason – they’re such a simple way to simplify a look, but you’ll need to get the right fit down pact.
Wear them with your dark wash jeans, a fresh pair of leather sneakers and you’ve got yourself a stylish, yet wearable look for any day.
Be sure to grab a few in white, black, navy and gray to keep your wardrobe nice and balanced.
5. Crewneck Sweater
A cotton, cotton blend or cashmere fabric crewneck sweater in a neutral color like ivory, black, charcoal or navy is a great way to add an air of class to your outfit.
It provides such a handsome appeal and instantly adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit.
Layer it over your well-fitting white t-shirt for a simple styling trick that will enhance your look, giving it a well-polished finish.
6. Casual Jacket
There are quite a few staple jackets you can choose from such as a sportcoat, harrington, or trucker jacket.
All are fantastic options, but I have to say, a bomber jacket will always be top billing.
It works superb on every body type and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
7. Low Profile Sneaker
White is such a clean and sharp color for a sneaker, but if you need to ease your way into wearing a brighter shoe, consider trying out a navy or gray pair first.
Be sure to go with a leather version as these will lend themselves more practical (easier to keep clean) compared to a canvas style.
Remember, you can always expand your collection with different textures as your style develops.
8. Dress + Sport Watch
The right watch is an accessory every self-respecting man needs in his wardrobe.
Accessories are a surefire way to inject stylish flair into your outfit and wearing a finely crafted watch is the perfect way to do so.
Get yourself a sport watch (metal-band) and a dress watch (leather band).
Sport watches (chrono, diving, pilot etc…) are to be worn with business casual or casual outfits, only.
Reserve leather strap watches to be worn with your suits.
9. Casual Belt - Brown & Black
A black and brown single prong, silver buckle belt will work-in seamlessly with your staple wardrobe, helping to complete your outfits.
At some point you’ll want a dress belt, for your dressier outfits, but a casual belt will be your go-to more often than not, so get this one first.
You may think all belts are made equal but that’s definitely not the case.
Know that a casual belt will usually have a matte or textured finish and will be slightly wider compared to a dress belt.
Brandi is a personal stylist with over 10 years of experience helping men feel confident in their clothing. She offers tailored style solutions to solve your fashion issues, ensuring you look and feel great for any occasion.