Now I know you are thinking that this is a silly comparison, but just hear me out.
When it comes to men's fashion I find it important to own these seven pieces. Think of these as a jumping off point that the rest of your wardrobe will revolve around.
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The White Oxford
The most crucial piece to any man's wardrobe in my opinion is the white oxford shirt. This garment can be worn by itself or under a
blazer, jacket, sweater, rugby.... the list goes on and on. No man's wardrobe is complete without this shirt. I have also discovered that if you find a brand or fit that you prefer buy that shirt in as many colors as the store offers! I myself prefer Haberdashery Shirtings by J.Crew in a size large. If the oxford collar isn't your taste, perhaps check out an 80's 2-ply shirt. I find that the button holes don't look the best when wearing under a sweater with the collar out. The holeswhen unbuttoned just look unfinished, whereas on an 80's 2-ply you won't have this problem.
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Denim
What is more synonymous with men than denim? Men have been wearing jeans for over a century now and you would be hard pressed to find a man without at least one pair of jeans. I believe it is important to have at least two pairs. One in a dark wash, and one in a light wash. If you are confused as to why you need both, let me tell you. A light wash jean is suitable for weekends, running errands, walking the dog, going to a baseball game... those sorts of casual things. Whereas a dark jean is considered to be more dressy. Dark denim jeans are great for dinner, drinks, dates, casual Fridays at the office, etc. That is why both are important for any man. Now there is a vast difference between washes so make sure you pick what would work best for your wardrobe. And when trying jeans on make sure to bring along an honest friend who will tell you the truth about how they look on you. And don't forget the ass! The ass is the most important part in a pair of jeans. When it's to baggy it will look like you're wearing a diaper, and no man or woman wants to look at Mr. Diaper Butt.
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V- Neck Sweater
The V-Neck Sweater is another important and timeless piece in any man's closet. It can be worn with either just a t-shirt for a more casual look or paired with an oxford and tie. There truly are no limits to how you can wear the v-neck sweater, just make sure it's fitted properly. Nothing can kill a man's appearance more than baggy clothes. The importance of a tailored look cannot be stressed. When buying a V-Neck Sweater, make sure to have fun. It's great to own this piece in a variety or colors or patterns. Just be sure you don't end up looking like Cosby.
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Khakis
In today's society you can't leave the house without a pair of pants. I do believe that the most important pair of pants you can own would be a pair of flat-front khakis. Flat front is a much more modern look, whereas pleats are somewhat outdated and end up making even the slimmest of men looking wide. Khakis can be worn to a multitude of places and depending on the cut can even be considered casual. No wardrobe is complete without them.
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Cole Haan Shoes
I believe that a well polished gentleman should care about his shoes and only the best will do. I know I'm cheating here by lumping all kinds of shoes together in one category, but Cole Haan does cover all of your foot needs. They carry everything from athletic sneakers to boots and everything in between. With their Nike Air insoles you'll feel like you're walking on a cloud. I wear my Air Ashby Captoe's on a near regular basis, and the best thing about Cole Haan is that the leather ages beautifully.
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Polo
I'm sure that as you read through my blog you'll find out that I am a huge sucker for the preppie look, and nothing completes that look like the Polo. I am a huge fan of wearing these on the weekend in a fun bright color. These can be worn as casual as you like, or if worn in a nice dark color and accessorized nicely these could be worn to dinner. The polo can even be worn to the office on casual Friday depending on the dress code. This I find to be the best way to dress down and still look respectable.
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The Grey Suit
Last but not least, the grey suit. Women got the little black dress, so we got the nice grey suit. This suit is imperative to any professional man's wardrobe. This suit is great for interviews, dinner, drinks, the office, etc. And what's best about it, is that you have two pieces. You can wear the jacket with other things, or pair the pants with a nice v-neck sweater and tie. You really get your bang for your buck when it comes to the grey suit. This is one piece that you can really invest some money in since it will never go out of style. And like I've mentioned before, get it tailored! Nothing looks better on a man than a finely tailored garment.
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These are the building blocks to any strong wardrobe, and should not be overlooked by any fashionable gentleman. I would like to thank you Reader for reading this blog, and I look forward to your return later this week when I cover "Proper Errand Outfits.'
-The Fashionable Cavalier
