Shop These Men's Clothing Essentials For Every Age
Take a look at these indispensable essentials in any man's wardrobe
Essentials are a crucial part of anyone's wardrobe, and yours is no exception. Regardless of age and price point, curating a collection of the most basic clothing items out there not only ensures that your wardrobe is full of tried and true classic pieces but also allows you to mix and match endless outfits regardless of which short-lived trends come and go. It's great to have accent pieces and statement items, but at the end of the day, nothing is more important than a foundational piece of men's essential clothing, whether you're just beginning to put together your wardrobe or looking to add a few elevated pieces to an already established closet.
There are just some articles of clothing that you simply cannot go without—think basic T-shirts, coats, jeans, etc. Filling your wardrobe with must-have, essential items like these not only means that getting dressed in the morning is that much easier, but it also means less shopping every year.
Without a collection of all of your favorite essentials, it's easy to fall prey to fast fashion and quick trends. Luckily, we're here to take the guesswork out of curating that perfect fall wardrobe full of timeless essentials. Take a look at some of our favorite men's essential clothing for every stage in your life.
20's
These jeans are all the proof we need that J. Crew is an instant go-to for a reason. With a universally flattering straight-leg fit, and a medium blue wash, this pair will never go out of style. Whether you're off to the grocery store or wearing them for a casual day at the office, this versatile men's essential clothing item is sure to be a hit every time.
J. Crew Classic Jeans, $148, J. Crew
We all know how valuable a plain white t-shirt is, and if you're still in search of the perfect one, look no further, this structured, heavier cotton tee is it. Pair it with your favorite jeans, layer it under a sweater, or under a blazer, but no matter what, this plain white t-shirt is the one to have in your wardrobe. There's no greater men's essential clothing item than this.
Buck Mason Field-Spec Cotton Heavy Tee, $55, Buck Mason
Every man needs a basic crewneck sweater in his wardrobe, and this cotton-merino blend sweater from Banana Republic is a great one to have. Not only is it sure to be super versatile in terms of styling, but the deep, rich brown tone is a perfect addition to a fall wardrobe and looks chic into winter as well. Wear this sweater with jeans and a t-shirt underneath for a casual weekend outing, or dress it up and layer a collared shirt underneath for a more polished look.
Banana Republic Alberto Cotton-Merino Sweater, $120, Banana Republic
In the same vein as a basic white t-shirt, everyone needs a basic white dress shirt. With such a universal must-have item, fit and structure are crucial factors, and this crisp, straight-fitted shirt will have you looking refined and elegant no matter what it's paired with, whether you wear it with more formal trousers or jeans. This white collared shirt can be your go-to when you're looking for a step up from the plain white t-shirt and is a staple piece in any man's wardrobe.
Todd Snyder Spread Collar Poplin Dress Shirt in White, $198, Todd Snyder
Whether you think you need a pair of chinos in your closet or not, we're here to tell you that you absolutely do. This pair from Manors Golf has the classic look of a crisp pair of chinos, but with the higher waistline and small details near the belt line, it's elevated a little bit beyond your everyday pair, making it a perfect choice in the capsule wardrobe men want. Pair them with a t-shirt and matching sneakers on a more casual day or with a sweater and loafers for a more polished look.
Manors Golf Beige Chino Trousers, $190, Ssense
This super-simple, no-nonsense black button-up cardigan from Sandro is an absolute instant classic. If zip-up hoodies were your uniform in your teens, and you're looking for that same comfort and versatility in your adulthood, opt for a cardigan. Not only is the fit of this sweater classically chic, but the collared neck adds an extra layer of flair to the look that works with any outfit.
Sandro Knit Cardigan $311, Saks Fifth Avenue
30's and 40's
This wool coat from Acne Studios perfectly embodies the brand's search for that minimal-cool look that everyone strives for in a single men's essential clothing piece. With its single-breasted design and simple silhouette, this coat is the perfect addition to your closet for a refined take on the classic wool coat.
Acne Studios Dalio Wool Coat, $1,300, Saks Fifth Avenue
This pair of jeans from John Elliot is super basic—and we mean that in the best way—but also has unique little details that make them visually interesting while still remaining versatile. With a light wash, frayed edges, and a slightly slouchy fit, this pair makes for the ultimate casual denim look.
John Elliot Caribou Bootcut Fiona Jean, $448, Fwrd
This white T-shirt from Maison Margiela is our recommendation if you're in the market for this tried-and-true essential with a slightly boxier fit. With all the best elements of a good white t-shirt, this pick has a sturdy crewneck, looser short sleeves, and a straight fit, this shirt is perfect if you're looking for an elevated basic.
Maison Margiela White Crewneck T-Shirt, $305, Ssense
Nothing says comfort, luxury, and style quite like a cashmere sweater, and this light brown crewneck sweater from Auralee embodies just those qualities of men's essential clothing. With its brushed knit material, the little details, like the ribbed crewneck, hemline, and sleeves, make this elegant sweater super versatile and effortlessly stylish. Whether you dress it up or down, this cashmere crewneck is the epitome of quiet luxury.
Auralee Brown Crewneck Sweater, $795, Ssense
No one does the classic tailored look better than Thom Browne, so if you're in search of a white Oxford shirt, look no further. With impeccable tailoring and quality craftsmanship, this shirt is the men's essential clothing piece you need. Sure to provide that crisp, clean, structured look that is so sought after, this button down shirt takes the guesswork out of formalwear.
Thom Browne White Cotton Oxford Grosgrain Placket Shirt, $432, Thom Browne
These cotton-linen blend chinos from Drake's are effortlessly classy, all thanks to that perfect brown tone and the simple, yet elegant pleats. Pair these super stylish chinos with a t-shirt and jacket or a button-down and boots for a timeless, classic fall look.
Drake’s Pleated Cotton-Linen Chinos, $350, Saks Fifth Avenue
This cardigan has that classic, straight-fit silhouette, and is perfect if you're in the market for a staple black wool cardigan. While the logo patch on the arm is a fun touch, it's also detachable if you're looking for a super minimal look. The lightweight knit wool fabric will keep you warm in cold weather, but won't be overly stuffy, as wool can occasionally be.
Stone Island Cardigan in Black, $706, Fwrd
50's and Beyond
This elegant piece from Fear of God is called the Eternal Overcoat for a reason—this timeless, durable coat is a men's essential clothing item you'll want for the rest of your life. Made in Italy with 100 percent wool, this stylish piece was made with everything you would ever want in a coat, with an optional waist tie, pockets both inside and outside, and a sleek double-breast design.
Fear of God Eternal Overcoat Jacket, $2,850, Fwrd
Gucci's Horsebit style is a classic for a reason. These jeans have that straight-leg fit and medium-blue wash that exudes the effortless style and class you want in your men's essential clothing.
Gucci Blue Straight-leg Horsebit Jeans, $1,100, Ssense
As a label known for its exquisite craftsmanship and fine materials, this Brunello Cucinelli t-shirt is a must-have if you're looking for a high-end men's essential clothing item. Not only do the ultra-comfortable fabric and expertly crafted fit of this shirt make it a perfect basic white tee, but the brand also prides itself on sustainable and ethical manufacturing, which is a plus for sure.
Brunello Cucinelli Cotton and Silk Jersey Basic Fit T-Shirt, $620, Saks Fifth Avenue
This midweight wool sweater from Bottega Veneta blends the best of both worlds—a basic, brown wool sweater and Bottega Veneta's sleek, signature Intreccio pattern. The slightly looser fit of this sweater makes it a great pick for fall and winter and has that effortless vibe without sacrificing any elegance.
Bottega Veneta Intreccio 3D Knit Sweater in Riverbed, $2,150, Fwrd
This white cotton dress shirt by Prada has a classic, slim-fit silhouette and relies on the label's expert craftsmanship to deliver a timeless, elegant-looking white dress shirt. The details featured on this piece, like the mother-of-pearl buttons and rounded hem make this shirt an instant, must-have men's essential clothing piece.
Prada Stretch Cotton Shirt in White, $875, Prada
These cotton chino pants are the ultimate combination of comfort and class. With a stylish, straight-leg style, this men's essential clothing item is elevated by simple pleats and sleek details, embodying that chic, minimalist look that Helmut Lang is known for.
Helmut Lang Cotton Core Pant, $395, Helmut Lang
If you buy any cardigan this fall, this wool cardigan from Jil Sander should be at the top of your list. Expertly crafted in Italy, this simple, black cardigan is made of 100 percent wool and has a classic y-neck detail that we can't get enough of. This sweater is the ultimate essential piece, as it perfectly combines comfort, class, simplicity, and versatility, making it a great addition to any capsule wardrobe men are striving to create.
Jil Sander Black Button Cardigan, $1,080, Ssense
