Wardrobe essentials for every man

Narrowing the many wardrobe essentials down to a few basic, absolute must- haves is more difficult than you think. After a lot of thought the list has been brought down to a mere fifteen. Of course, one can’t survive with just these fifteen, but they are the fifteen basics every man must own.

1. Basic white tee

A plain white t- shirt is probably the most important piece of clothing in a man’s wardrobe. I’m sure most woman would agree that a man looks best in white. Needless to say, it’s probably the simplest and most comfortable thing you can own. And what’s more, it’s so easy to pair it with a trouser and jacket because it will go with absolutely any color.

2. Blue denims

It’s really important to own a pair of jeans and it’s also important that it is well fitted. Jeans have become a part of man’s daily lives for casual wear. But if it has to be brought down to just one pair then dark blue is the perfect choice.

3.Black or navy blue tee

Black and navy blue are probably the favourites of most men. Luckily it looks good with almost everything so it works out for the best.

4.Beige chinos or shorts

If you’re a shorts kind of person, a beige shorts is an absolute must- have. Otherwise, you can always go for a chino style trouser in beige. These are comfortable and yet not as casual as jeans, perfect for your semi formal or smart casual look.

5.Sneakers/ loafers

Simple white sneakers or a pair of classic loafers which go with all your casual wear is another wardrobe essential. Just that one classy pair of sneakers can make you look your casual best.

6.Bomber jacket

Instead of your regular hoodies and pullovers, keep yourself warm in style with a bomber jacket preferably in leather. One can never go wrong with that. 

7.Tweed or checked jacket

You always need one casual blazer and this is your chance to experiment with textures or checks on your blazer. You can wear it with your favourite pair of jeans or chinos and even your shorts.

8.Black trouser

Well, there really is no explanation needed here. A simple formal black trouser is your go-to pair of trousers when you just cannot muster the energy to look for something to wear.

9.Black shirt

Black shirts are the best choice for your evening wear and party wear and again are extremely easy to pair with.

10.Classic white shirt

A crisp white formal shirt that works under any suit or even on its own. And if you can add one more in linen to your wardrobe, there’s nothing like it.

11.Chinese collared shirt

Apart from the basic shirt, a Chinese collared shirt is also a must have in your wardrobe. Be it for functions or semi- formals, a Chinese collar shirt looks really stylish.

12.Pale blue shirt

Pale blue is the perfect choice of shirt under a grey, navy blue, beige or black suit.

13.A 3- piece suit in navy blue or dark grey

Navy blue and dark grey are the most sought after colours among suits for men and are the most basic suits one must own. Instead of a two- piece suit, get these along with a waistcoat. That way you can wear the suit in two different styles and even wear the waistcoat on  it’s own.

14.Oxfords

Like your sneakers for casual wear, oxfords are your go-to pair of shoes when it comes to formals. Either in a black or a tan brown, these shoes can go with almost all your formal wear.

15.Maroon/navy tie

Maroon and navy blue ties are the colours that go best with a majority of your suits. If you want to play it safe, turn to maroon or navy.

Of course, I would love to add Chelsea boots, a pullover or a hoodie, a tuxedo and even a bandhgala or bandi but then the list would go on. So, keeping it to a bare minimum these essentials should definitely be a part of your wardrobe.

Suzaana George

Senior Fashion Stylist