When it comes to your wardrobe, just like most things in life, if you have your basics sorted, everything else will fall into place quite naturally! While there should be some items in your closet that serve as statement pieces and are strictly reserved for special occasions, there should be others that you may need for a day out such as a day at the golf course. Having those wardrobe essentials in place will make it much easier for you to mix and match your clothing items for different occasions.
So, let’s jump right in, here are 10 must-haves – the key wardrobe essentials for every gentleman.
#1. A crisp white shirt
Whether it’s an important meeting or a dinner date, you can always count on your trusted white button down to come to the party, so to speak. You can style it with a blazer, tie or even suspenders. A wide-spread or cutaway collar is one that can be used both with or without a tie. In your wardrobe, a crisp white shirt is a must as it goes with just about everything!
#2. A tailored suit
Whether it’s for work, a wedding or a night out, a well-tailored suit will never be out of style. If you’re going to own only one suit, make it a bespoke one. Nothing beats a suit that fits you properly. When not in use, make sure you store your suit well. Read about how to care for your suit here.
#3. A versatile jumper
Always handy to carry around, especially when Melbourne’s weather turns cold without a warning, a jumper goes with everything and will come to your aid on those chilly evenings. Go with a colour that will match your suit, your jeans and even your chinos.
#4. Chinos
If you’re sick of your jeans but trousers are too formal for an occasion, then chinos are your go-to garment. They’re ideal for all seasons and can be paired with almost anything!
#5. A polo tee
A polo is the perfect ‘in between’ garment when a t-shirt may be too casual and a button-down shirt is too formal. It’s great for daytime dates, evening BBQs and days when you don’t know where your plans will take you.
#6. Black leather oxfords
black leather oxfords are a must in every man’s wardrobe. These sleek shoes can be used for weddings and other formal occasions, as well as
#7. Brown boots
Whether you go for tan or chocolate, brown boots (such as Chelsea boots) will effortlessly pair with anything and everything in your wardrobe without the hassle of laces. Chelsea boots are typically worn more with casual or business casual attire. If you’re suiting up for a formal event, opt for oxfords or brogues.
#8. Slim-fit jeans
It’s hard not to love a good pair of jeans. Jeans are most people’s go-to option for casual wear. Paired with a blazer, jeans are usually acceptable business casual dress. Slim-fit jeans do a great job of dressing down without looking sloppy.
#9. A trench coat
Ideal for those cold and wet months, or really any day in our fair city, a double-breasted trench coat is all you need to shelter you from rain, sleet or wind. It’s a must-have for men and can be styled over casual or formal looks.
#10. A navy blazer
When in doubt, throw on a blazer! Blazers are great because they can transform a basic look into something that’s socially acceptable for dressy affairs. You can even pull off a blazer casually if you prefer, by pairing it with t-shirt instead of a classic button-down. If you’re going to own just one blazer, make it a navy or blue. Navy can easily be matched with your other wardrobe staples.
These essential basics are things that you should be able to get a lot of use out of, so aside from having the right items in your wardrobe, make sure the fit and quality of them are great too. If you want to know more, or are ready to add some of these essentials into your wardrobe, book an appointment with The Suit Concierge, and we’ll look after you.
