Let’s be honest we as Americans have an issue about buying stuff we do not need (first world problems). It is not the issues of buying, it is the issue of not buying items that are versatile. Versatility is key guys, you want to make sure that almost everything you get will fit multiple occasions but in specific, work. Impressions last a lifetime and at work you want to look as well put as possible regardless of the title. Do you ever have those mornings where you look at your closet and say, “I have nothing to wear”, don’t worry I’ve been there too, which is why in this article I will provide you with the only 15 clothing pieces any gentleman needs in their work wardrobe, which will make that phrase disappear. Let’s jump in:
Tops
1. A Navy/Charcoal Suit
Gents, you need a nice navy/charcoal suit. This will get you anywhere, interviews, weddings, funerals, etc. Not only does a suit fit many purposes, but if you were to get a three piece (vest), you have items that you can integrate with other outfits. You can wear the blazer to the bar, the pants with a button up for work, and the vest to go over a shirt and some jeans; the variations are endless.
2. A White Button-down Shirt
A nice white button-down shirt is the best shirt for any man to have in their work wardrobe, it is a classic staple. You can never have enough of these, at a minimum have 2, one that will fit formal events (work, weddings), the other for casual events (bar, parties).
3. A White Tee Shirt
A white shirt is like your white tee shirt, it fits with anything. You can wear it with anything. Purchase a crew neck, or v-neck. There are options of a scoop neck, which has been one of my favorite collar styles in the last couple of years. Throw it on alone or layer it under a nice shirt.
4. An Oxford Shirt
A light blue/white oxford shirt is perfect for work or any more business casual events. Add a nice tie or just wear it alone it looks good. One of the biggest ways to distinguish a normal shirt from the oxford would be the cloth, it’s a bit thicker, and most of the times these have a bottom down collar. As mentioned, before it’s a nice shirt for casual outings or even a great shirt for that nice suit.
5. A Coat
Although there are a variety of coats that brands sell, I recommend either a top coat or a peacoat. These will fit all occasions. Both coats will keep you not only warm but stylish. Pro tip: the coat must fit (so should all these other items), you do not want to look like a box.
6. Denim Jacket
A denim jacket is the perfect layering piece year-round. I recommend a dark denim, but a medium wash denim would suffice. Again, make sure that the jacket fits. You can rock this jacket many ways, over a shirt, tee shirt. You can even add wear a shirt and tie, some dress pants and wear the jacket as a substitute for a suit jacket/blazer.
7. Leather Jacket
A great leather jacket is like having an investment, this will last you ages. Leather jackets are perfect for adding a bit of “bad assness” to your look. In my opinion, brown looks better than black, but it’s up to personal preference. You can wear it the same as a denim jacket, dressed up or down. I love pulling off a nice shirt and tie with the leather jacket, classy and cool at the same time.
8. Polo
The polo is a great option for casual days or formal days especially for the summer. Polos are classic and if you work in a business casual setting polo are a great option. You can pair these up with some chinos or dress pants and it will fit any occasion.
9. Sweaters
In general layering is a great way to spice up your look, a cardigan, crewneck, hoodie, are perfect for work as well, just keep in mind formalities.
Bottoms
***With pants/jeans, fit is king, you want to make sure that you have them tailored meaning hemmed and tapered to you.
10. Suit Pants
Following along with the suit, the pants will serve many occasions and that’s exactly what you want, versatility. You can pair them up with sweaters, tees, and shirts.
11. Chinos
Chinos, also known as khakis, are great for any occasion. There are many colors of chinos, my suggestion is to purchase a pair of grays, khakis, blacks, and navys. These colors will combine with any color shirt or tee shirt pairing.
12. Dark Wash Denim
Dark wash denim is a great substitute for your chinos or suit pants, you can always dress them up with a nice shirt, tie and a blazer. For casual Fridays you can throw these on with a nice polo or casual shirt, and you can bring a different perspective to your look (no uniform gents).
Shoes
13. Dress Shoes
I will leave this as just dress shoes, however if you are to buy any dress shoes, don’t buy square toe shoes. My advice to any guy is always to have a nice pair of brown and black, cap toe shoes or oxfords. Either one of these will fit a lot of formalities.
14. Tennis Shoes
Sneakers are your substitute for any dress shoes. I personally tell gents to purchase a nice pair of white sneakers, they can fit your denim, chinos, and even dress pants (yes, you can break that rule). Purchase the staples then get those fly Jordans.
15. Dress Boots
Boots give a different aesthetic to any outfit, a bit of ruggedness, they look great with denim, but they can also be worn with chinos. With boots I advise to get a nice pair of wingtips and or some chealseas.
Hope you enjoyed this post gents. Make sure to like, comment and share! As always style up,