While we love dudes who aren't afraid to sport the latest and greatest, there are a few
staples that should absolutely, positively form the basis of every
man's wardrobe, dandy or not. As perfect paired with of-the-moment get-ups as they are on their own, these totally timeless no-brainer pieces—from dark wash jeans to desert boots—can and should be worn again and again. Yes, it's easy for a fella to get sucked into the trends that cheap-chic factories like H&M and Topman churn out each season, but these closet classics will stick around longer than six months—and should have a place in every guy's permanent rotation.
1. The Classic Dark-Washed Jeans
There's nothing like a pair of great-fitting straight leg jeans, and dark wash never goes out of style. Truly indispensable, they can be dressed up or down, and get better with wear. Seriously, if you have a pair of jeans with any sort of kooky stitching or pocket designs, discard immediately.
Above, from left: Levi's 501 Original Jeans in Rinsed, $37 (were $46), at
Levi's;
A.P.C. New Standard Jeans, $155, at
A.P.C.;
Oak Indigo Straight Jean, $146, at
Oak.
2. The Desert Boots
Though the Clarks classics have laces, pull-on versions are an easy update, and let's face it, the less work the better. Whether in universal black or broken-in beige, suede or canvas, there's a version of these to suit every guy's style.
Above, from left: Clarks Desert Boot, $95, at
Clarks;
Vanishing Elephant Ferris Leather Desert Boot, $264, at
Blackbird;
Acne Dune Boot, $489 CDN, at
Gravitypope.
3. The Cashmere Pullover
Some dudes do V-necks, some don't. We'll admit, dabbling in neck "intricacies" can get you into trouble. But not with a classic cashmere crew. Whether in merino or a soft cashmere blend, it's a hard call The merino wool crewneck gets an upgrade in cashmere--a definite investment, but it'll add polish to any outfit.
Above, from left: Acne Storm Sweater, $240, available at
Gargyle;
A.P.C. Pullover, $280, at
A.P.C..
Above, from left: Victor Glemaud Grunge Crew Sweater, $325, at
Odin;
J.Crew Cashmere Crewneck Sweater, $188, at
J.Crew.
4. The Polished Top Coat
Top coat equals entry into grown-up land. Whether going to the opera or on a dinner date, guys really can't be wearing whatever variation of the North Face jacket they still have from their undergrad days...over a suit.
Above, from left: Topman Charcoal Duffle Coat, $160, at
Topman;
Patrik Ervell Overcoat, $865, at
Opening Ceremony.
Above, from left: Band of Outsiders Polo Coat, $2,070, at
Opening Ceremony;
Freeman's Sporting Club Pea Coat, $1630, at
Refinery29 Shops.
5. The Good Go-to Belt
Every outfit needs a finishing piece, and a leather belt in a neutral color is a functional accent that can be worn daily (and not necessarily to keep up your pants).
Above, from left: UO Solid Leather Belt, $19, at
Urban Outfitters;
Topman Tan Leather Plaited Belt, $40, at
Topman;
Tanner Standard Belt with Black Hardware, $87, at
Blackbird.
6. Versatile Sport Coat
Part-time blazer, sometimes overcoat, always useful. Tweed is a homespun, English novelist-style variation of black, navy, or charcoal. And you don't have to be a nerd to wear it.
Above, from left: Marc by Marc Jacobs Wool Flannel Blazer, $394, at
Ssense;
Billy Reid Henry Patch Pocket in Brown Plaid, $625, at
Billy Reid.
Above, from left: Nom de Guerre Woolen Blazer, $725, at
Inventory;
Shades of Greige Two Button Blazer, $198, at
Ssense.
7. Plaid Shirt With the Perfect Fit
Perfectly-cut plaid shirts (like Steven Alan's) often come in letter-sizes--how many of us are actually "medium-sized," anyway? Don't fear the tailor.
Above, from left:
Gitman Brothers Tartan Button Up, $175, at
Acrimony;
Woolrich Cotton Plain Upland Button Down, $185, at
Bird.
Above, from left: Steven Alan Reverse Seam Shirt, $168, at
Steven Alan;
J.Crew Secret Wash Button-Down Shirt, $59.50, at
J.Crew.
8. A Classic Watch
You probably wish your grand-dad passed down his love-worn Patek Philippe, but most of you guys out there won't be so lucky. For reality's sake, every guy should score himself a refined-yet-rugged military-style watch, ideal for every day and just as stylish for night.
Above, from left: G-SAR Dive Watch, $700, at
County Comm;
Simon Carter WT 1600 Watch, $175, at
Blackbird;
M&Co 5 O'Clock Watch, $95, at the
MoMA Store.
9. Tailored Khakis
Definitely not your dad's pleated pants (unless he's Johnny Depp), great-fitting khakis are a bare-bones essential, be they cuffed on the beach or tucked into some worn-in motorcycle boots.
Above, from left: Corpus Sailor Pants, $75 (were $189), at
Gargyle;
Chimala West Point Chino Officer's Pants, $325, at
Bird;
Ralph Lauren G.I. Flat Front Fine Chino, $98, at
Ralph Lauren.
Article from
Refinery29
