My advice for men who don't know how to shop for basics:
- 1 pair jeans: dark wash (raw/selvedge whatever is optional), non-bootcut, no distressing/fading, proper inseam length, no obnoxious pocket detailing (e.g. buttoned flaps, excessive stitching decoration).
(Ex. Levis, Lands End Canvas, H&M, Uniqlo, Gap)
- 1 pair of chinos: non-bootcut, non-pleated (flat-front), no cargo pockets.
(Ex. J. Crew, Uniqlo, Gap)
- 3 basic t-shirts: v-neck preferable to crewneck, properly fitted in shoulders and waist, solid colors, cotton, ideally not an obnoxious graphic t-shirt.
(Ex. You can pretty much find this anywhere - Target, H&M, Gap, AA, etc.)
- 2 button-down dress shirts: white or blue preferable (avoid pink, purple, black, red, those weird metallic/holographic effect shirts), subtle stripes are ok, slim-fit if possible.
(Ex. Uniqlo, Lands End Canvas)
- 2 button-down casual shirts: I am a sucker for plaid but whatever floats your boat. Avoid super contrasty, bold stripes.
(Ex. Uniqlo, Gap, H&M)
- 1+ outerwear: pea coat, parka, duffel coat, etc. If you're paying up for this, make sure it's quality. Look at material content (acrylic is not that warm; wool is). Make sure it's heavy enough for the winter.
- 2 sweaters: cardigan, pullover, crew/v-neck. Avoid those ugly half-zip up mock turtleneck things your mom buys you for Christmas. If you are older than mid-20s, try to branch out from hooded sweatshirts for god's sake. Cotton/cotton-blend sweaters are easier to care for than wool but if you're not opposed to dry cleaning bills, try merino or cashmere.
- 1 pair of casual shoes: chukkas, desert boot, Chucks, etc. Look for quality leather, good soles. Avoid loafers and moccasins unless you (and others) are sure you can pull it off.
(Ex. Clarks, Red Wing, Converse, etc. - Guys, feel free to add more suggestions)
- 1 pair of sneakers for the gym/exercising - go hog wild. But don't try to wear ugly sneakers, boot cut jeans, a graphic t-shirt with a blazer -- I will cut you.
- 1 pair of dressier shoes: wingtips, brogues, just plain leather brown/black shoes. Avoid square/pointy toe. Chisel toes are also not as versatile as just a plain round (not TOO round) toe.
- 1 nice watch (optional): Yeah, you can look at your cell phone for the time, but once you wear a nice watch, you'll wonder how you lived without it. Also, it'll make you look like a real live grown-up. Automatic watches are great so you never have to worry about changing the battery. Make sure it's big enough to suit your frame/wrist.
Hope this helps! Please feel free to correct me/add other suggestions. :keke:
