In the era of fast fashion and consumerism, it’s easy to amass an over-flowing closet full of clothes, accessories, and knick-knacks you hardly ever look at, much less use. This isn’t a judgment – we’re in the same boat.
Therefore, it’s worthwhile to take into consideration what truly matters from time to time. What are your requirements? Naturally, there are sentimental and personal items that cannot be listed in an online article. Everybody has possessions that we cannot live without. However, there are also the essentials, or things that everyone ought to have. The things that demonstrate care and attention — stylish and functional objects that are well-used.
In this list of 20 things every guy should own, we’ve included essential menswear as well as homegoods, accessories, and gear that we think are necessary for everyday life. Even if you don’t use each item every day, they make your gestalt stronger.
1. A Simple T-Shirt In White
In addition to the button-downs, graphic tees, or whatever garment you choose to adorn your torse, your wardrobe needs a plain white t-shirt. One of the few essential items of clothing that everyone ought to have is a classic plain white tee. It is versatile, clean, and universally stylish. Here, we even compiled a list of our favorite plain white t-shirts. Whether you like your shirts boxy or slim fit, find a white shirt that fits your body size and integrate it into your outfits.
2. A Suit
If you happen to work in a professional environment that requires this type of attire, obviously you need a suit. However, we believe that everyone ought to really make an investment in at least one suit. A well-fitting suit is a wise investment for a variety of formal occasions, including weddings, job interviews, and other similar occasions. If you don’t have the means to go custom, you shouldn’t (unless you do, in which case we’d say it’s worth it), but our advice is to buy off the rack and find a good tailor. Your suit will be more comfortable to wear and last longer.
3. A Blazer, Navy
Having a separate blazer from reusing your suit jacket is a significant distinction. A distinct piece of clothing, blazers are typically worn for less formal occasions. Nevertheless, a versatile blazer is a useful item. Pair it with jeans and sneakers for a smart casual look or with a pair of slacks or linen pants for a handsome semi-formal style.
4. A Tie
A handsome tie—or bow tie, if you can pull it off—is a necessity, even if you don’t wear it often. You can opt for the more versatile and very popular knit tee or you can go with something more traditional. Unless it fits into your personal aesthetic, avoid anything overtly preppy or Ivy League and go for something simple: solid colors, stripes, or patterns that aren’t too busy.
Our Pick: High Cotton Classic Blue Seersucker Stripe ($75)
5. A Coat Of Arms
Although bathrobes are a luxury, you absolutely need one if you enjoy leisure wear as much as I do. Cozy, plush, and comfortable, a bathrobe adds a touch of dignity to your boxers and gym shorts morning routine. Additionally, unwinding in the early hours on the weekend is made easier by donning a bathrobe.
6. Slippers
Slippers and house shoes aren’t just for frivolity. They provide some separation between your feet and the dusty floors. Plus, they can keep you warm and cozy in the winter months. You don’t need to go full fuzzy moccasin – a pair of decent slides are perfectly fine. However, slippers or comfortable house shoes are a game-changer.
7. Dress Shoes
No matter what you do for a living, a good suit is a must-have, as are a good pair of dress shoes. Even if it’s just to spice up your date night. A straightforward and conventional pair of dress shoes, such as an Oxford or a loafer, is an excellent option if you can only afford one pair.
8. Sneakers
A reliable pair of sneakers should complete your shoe collection. Something simple and adaptable that can be worn with a variety of outfits is our recommendation. A pair of Vans, an Adidas Samba, or a Converse Chuck 70 are excellent choices. Conversely, New Balances and Nike SB are always excellent choices if you prefer to embrace contemporary design.
9. A Watch
At this point, thanks to the progression of smartphones, everyone has a very reliable timekeeping device in their pockets. However, we consider it necessary to own at least one wristwatch. It could be a vintage watch that you bought on eBay or that your family has had for generations. It can be an expensive watch. It’s a reasonable timepiece that you’ll enjoy. Just own a watch you care about.
10. A Grey Hoodie
A straightforward athletic hoodie is ideal not only for workouts during the cooler months of the year but also as an elegant fashion accessory. While menswear tends to obsess over “basics,” we think the grey hoodie is a genuinely versatile and handsome garment that deserves a spot.
11. Jeans In Denim
Denim is always in style because of how timeless a good pair of jeans is. What started out as workwear has now become ingrained in contemporary menswear. You can go down the denim rabbit hole and buy the best raw denim jeans from Japan for your closet, but you should at least buy a good pair of Levi’s.
12. Boots
A good pair of leather boots can go with almost any outfit for the cold season. Particularly when paired with the aforementioned denim jeans. A pair of boots can last for years if they are well-maintained. Depending on your style preferences, they can handle both city life and frequent rough trails.
13. An All-Leather Belt
A straightforward and adaptable leather belt is another essential piece of menswear. Wear it with a suit or your usual pair of chinos. Despite the fact that today’s fashion preferences have thrown caution to the wind and advised wearing whatever belt you enjoy, traditional wisdom still advises that a belt should match your shoes.
14. Good Sunglasses
Emphasis on the good. The cheap sunglasses from the gas station just won’t cut it. A high-quality pair of sunglasses is an investment that is well worth the price. They will not only shield your eyes even on the hottest days, but they will also contribute to your overall sense of style and show that you have given some thought to how you present yourself.
15. A Set Of Cuff Links
There is a good chance that you won’t wear cufflinks every day. In point of fact, that might be impressive if they are used once per year. But, these small menswear accessories can make a big impact in your sense of style. Even though menswear has started to include more fun elements, even in formal attire, a charming set of cufflinks has always been a good way to show who you are in suiting. Even better if you happen to have family heirloom cufflinks. Or, for your next formal event, you can find some one-of-a-kind vintage cufflinks. Otherwise, pick a straightforward set that speaks to you.
16. A Set Of Gloves For The Job
This might depend on your own level of yard work, but as someone with a small garden and backyard to maintain, having a set of work gloves is essential. Protect your hands and give your work some grit and grip. In addition, a good pair of work gloves can last a lifetime, so you can buy one pair and use them for years to do work in the backyard.
17. A Backpack
A versatile backpack can get you through any number of activities from toting your workout gear to the gym to hitting the trail for a weekend of camping. We’d suggest going with one that not only has plenty of storage space and different compartments and pockets, but also fits well on your shoulders and back. Additionally, it ought to be able to withstand years of travel.
18. Shopping Bags
Are tote bags necessary for everyday life? Most likely not. However, when you need a reusable bag for groceries or don’t want to carry a bulky backpack on a quick trip to the park, these bags come in handy. In addition, you can promote your favorite brand, musician, or restaurant with tote bags.
19. Carry-Ons And/Or Cases
A solid backpack and duffel bag might be able to get you through a weekend away in a car, but if you have to travel by plane, we think it’s essential you invest in some quality luggage. You don’t need to go all out on a complete suitcase set, but we think a sizable carry-on is a bare minimum for the frequent jet setter.
20. Headphones
If you value a good audio experience, we recommend getting yourself a quality pair of headphones. These can be as extravagant as hi-fi, over-ear headphones or as straightforward as earbuds. Either way, we think it’s worth investing in a pair of headphones. Consider your listening habits for specific use cases but active noise canceling and Bluetooth capabilities are good places to start.
