There are a few clothing pieces that everyone needs in their wardrobe. We’ve created a list which will help you look ready from head to the shoe at any given point! Our 20 essentials will come in handy if you are off to both formal & casual events. Interested in finding out more? Keep on reading!
Wondering how many clothes should a man have in his wardrobe? You don’t need hundreds of different pieces to complete ”the look”. You only need some key elements which will give you that high-end fashionable style.

What should every man have in his wardrobe?
Denim Jacket

This is one of those men essentials for the Spring season. A denim jacket will last throughout the years, especially if you invest in a higher quality piece. Stay on a lookout for brands that are known for their durable denim jackets and you’ll be wearing your jacket in the next several years!
How To Style It?
You can wear a flannel shirt underneath the jacket and go for that slim fit. Also, throw on a stylish watch & enjoy the modern yet effortless look. You will feel comfortable and you’ll love to wear this outfit on casual night-outs.
Overcoat

This is for those smarter occasions and when you need to dress-up. Overcoats are often essentials if you work at the office, and if you need to follow certain guides or dress-codes. An overcoat is also for smartening up any outfit, especially when the temperatures drop.
How To Style It?
Wear the overcoat with a pair of boots if it is the winter season. Wear khaki trousers and pick your favorite tie to ”tie” the look together! It can be any design, just make sure it suits your personal style, and that the color matches your pants.
Sweatshirt

A cozy cotton sweatshirt is something that you should subscribe to! It is one of those essentials which makes you feel cozy at any given point of the day. This is also a versatile mid-layer solution which you can wear on its own, or when paired up with a bold jacket on top! Sweatshirts can be worn if you are off to any sport occasion, or simply if you prefer minimal looks.
How To Style It?
Take your favorite sweatshirt from the closet and style it with a pair of white pants. You can also go for a suede belt and add enjoy the ultimate relaxed yet stylish outfit for everyday wear.
Knitwear

Linen knitwear is something that only some dare to wear. Why? Well, linen is the type of fabric that can’t look great on every body type. If you are one of them you can opt for a classic knitted jumper and enjoy your winter days! Shop for something which is available in many different colors, just so you are left with a variety. Head for cable or chevron knits for a thicker option.
How To Style It?
You can throw on a wool knit jumper and pair it along with any comfy shoe. You can wear sneakers or flats, based on the occasion. Luckily for you, there is a huge selection of knitwear which will make your search progress 10 times easier.
Checked Shirt

A checked shirt is an amazing solution if you love that retro or boho vibe. This print has been very popular lately, and chances are it probably will never go out of fashion. Perfect for layering up with a crew neck shirt. This is a solid must-have if you can subscribe to its bold print.
How To Style It?
Make sure your first button is unbuttoned! Men who love to dress casually should pair this top with a simple white shoe. Make sure you pair the look with a sturdy belt, or even with your favorite hat! Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone every here and there. Since if not now, when?
Denim Shirt

A denim shirt, when done in a washed-out tone, can look amazing! This is one of those essentials which looks great on slimmer men. Denim shirts give out an illusion of a more defined body and are long-lasting once you invest in the fabric. if you don’t mind browsing through Amazon or doing in-store shopping, make sure you get yourself the perfect blue denim shirt.
How To Style It?
Men who love to stand out should pair denim with denim (bold move, we know). However, if you can find the exact & ideal tone of denim, make sure you embrace the fierce look. You can also throw on a brown bag, belt, and your favorite accessories to finish off your outfit.
Oxford Shirt

An Oxford shirt screams class and is super versatile in terms of styling. Men love pairing it up with skinny jeans or pants, especially when they are headed to the office! You can wear it on its own or pair along with a cardigan or blazer. This clothing item can be worn even in the Summer, and it will look great even without the need for tailoring. Make sure you have at least 5 of these ready to be styled.
How To Style It?
If you are going to wear a simple white oxford shirt make sure you wear interesting pants or some sturdy denim. Don’t take the easy way & settle with black jeans. Instead, be creative and throw on some color!
Crew Neck T-Shirts

Men usually have dozens of crew neck shirts in their closet. The reason behind that? Easy & versatile styling options. Crew necks are something you can throw on if you are going barbequing, you are taking your dog out for a walk, or you are off to a date! It’s all about pairing them up with the right lower bottom half, as well as the accessories.
How To Style It?
Dress up casually and remember that accessories can change up your look. Go for a simple crew neck, but let it stand out by adding some glasses, a belt, as well as a baseball cap on top!
Indigo Jeans

These are great for casual outfits but can also be paired with a decent tweed blazer if you’ve got one. Indigo jeans are often quite sturdy and will last you for years, especially if you invest in a high-quality pair and wash them in the correct way. These jeans are only for men who love more relaxed and casual wear, and who don’t love dress-up pants.
How To Style It?
You can wear them loose or you can twist them up above your ankle. Usually, these work the best when styled with a tucked-in button shirt, a watch, as well as a belt. You can also incorporate a satchel bag if you are going for that office-vibe look. If you are having trouble getting them to fit correctly then read our jeans buying guide.
Black Jeans

These are spot-on for a wide range of fittings and every guy probably owns at least one pair. Whether you go for skinny, slim or straight, black jeans are by far the most versatile jeans to style. Jeans are an essential part of any man’s Autumn wardrobe and should be styled however you feel like.
How To Style It?
Since Autumn is coming you should try to incorporate a chunky wool scarf to your OOTD. We recommend either gray or white colors since these look the prettiest once paired along with black jeans. Wear the same colored shoes as the color of your scarf and don’t forget your shades.
Chinos

Chinos – every guy’s ironing nightmare. Although these are timeless & beautiful, they are mostly worn by business-men or guys who prefer that wider leg fit. The wide & loose fit is ideal for those who want to create an illusion of fuller & more masculine legs. On the other hand, these pants can also be very comfortable for those who have larger calves & who would like some extra space. Navy, black or sand are by far the most versatile colors, and they can easily make a staple outfit.
How To Style It?
Style them with a plain shirt. Make sure you wear a trusted belt since these pants may wish for additional support. You can wear them with a tie if you are off to work, or simply buttoned-up if you love the relaxed fit.
Formal Footwear

Obviously, this is a very broad term but you need some formal footwear in your closet, don’t you? Key styles include the derby, brogue, loafer and monk straps. These should be worn if you are off to a smart & dressy occasion, or even if you are headed out on a date. However, our advice is that you invest in these shoes & rather purchase one high-quality pair than 3-4 cheaper ones.
How To Style It?
Style them with your favorite pair of pants-wide leg pants. Don’t go for skinny jeans or T-shirts, and make sure you wear the same color tones. This is the key to looking successful & busy ready.
Trainers

Obviously, for the casual weekends, your trainers are an essential item. A lot of men usually prefer the classic style – Chuck Taylors and Authentics. If you want something a little more durable you can go for the leather runners. A good pair of trainers are a fashion must-have + they are way too comfortable on your foot.
How To Style It?
Wear with sweatpants & your favorite cozy shirt. Trainers are the typical casual go-to & should be styled however you prefer. There are no tight rules & you are completely in control of your style.
Bomber Jacket

This is the classic which will come in handy, especially for the Fall. You’ve seen this jacket being styled on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram, am I right? It is the perfect item which shows no signs of fading – it will last you for quite some time! Plus you probably already own it in your wardrobe, do you?
How To Style It?
Wear the perfect pair of shoes along with this bomber jacket. The best choice is something which is the same brand as the jacket itself. Wear it zip-open and style with a T-shirt underneath.
Smart Up
Tailoring

Now, smartening-up your outfit can be very important to some while others will find tailoring irrelevant. However, if you work at the office or you have an over-the-counter job you may need to suit-up. Even if your place has a dress code you should know some basics regarding the right key-pieces. Planning on wearing a suit in the near future? Do you have the right kind in your wardrobe? Make sure it is the one which suits your body shape & your body type.
How To Style It?
Shorter men will love peak label since it will lengthen their torso. The shorter cut jacket is also great since it will elongate your frame.
Tall men will need to break up their frame by wearing big checks, belts as well as extra ticket pockets.
Skinny men will love a double-breasted jacket as well as a lot of textured waves to their outfit.
Larger men should throw on two-button jackets and should go for lighter fabrics which will make them look a lot less bulky.
Athletic men should avoid any padding & will look the best with unstructured shoulders. Throw on pleated trousers & make sure you purchase the right size for your body shape (not too little nor too big).
5 Wardrobe Essentials You Need In Your Life
- Make sure you have all the key pieces for every season; don’t get caught out when the weather changes & you are out of your essentials in your wardrobe.
- Buy colors that are easy to match and incorporate them with other more colorful pieces.
- Good quality items will last way longer and will eventually save you money in the long run.
- Own both casual and formal items so you can dress-up for any occasion.
- Have a few footwear basics in your wardrobe since shoes are often the most important part of an outfit.
On That Note
By owning only 15 different items you can create a whole range of outfits to suit any occasion, and to fit your wardrobe! Remember to mix & match different colors, and always invest in some key pieces since this will pay-off in the end. Don’t go through 5-6 pairs of cheap sneakers throughout the year; rather purchase one quality & expensive pair and enjoy it for 12+ months!
No reason to invest in a wardrobe full of tracksuits, but at the same no reason to get tons of shirts and ties either. Find the perfect in-between balance, and make sure you style your items as previously suggested.
Feature image from Pinterest
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