Guide

10 basics for him that belong in any man’s wardrobe

Vanessa Kim
29.6.2018
Translation: Eva Francis

Do you feel overwhelmed when it comes to choosing clothes? I’m here to guide you through the clothing jungle. Read on to find out which 10 pieces should be part of any basic wardrobe.

The amount of clothes we have to choose from is crazy. It’s no wonder you wake up every morning and stand cluelessly in front of your wardrobe. Or maybe you’re at the other end of the spectrum, with hardly clothes to your name. Whichever type you are, you’ll be set and ready to go with the right basics.

But wait, what do I even mean by basics? A basic is a timeless piece of clothing in a neutral colour that you can easily combine with any outfit. You can either go for a monochrome look – in other words, tone on tone – or add your basic to a statement piece. Either way, each basic I recommend comes with tips on what to wear it with.

#1 Blazer: what might look stuffy on first inspection has true trend potential. Combine a jacket with trainers and a pair of jeans and in a flash you’ve transformed office wear into a trendy outfit.

Tommy Hilfiger Jacket regular fit (58)
Suit

Tommy Hilfiger Jacket regular fit

58

#2 White T-shirt: a plain cotton top is a must. I’d also recommend investing in a grey and black version. When you’re picking out your T-shirt, have a look at the cut. It shouldn’t be too tight fitting, but neither should it be too baggy. Loose fit is the magic phrase here.

#3 Cashmere jumper:
Quality comes at a price. Once you get a taste for high-quality wool, there’s no going back. The material is also ideal for the kind of fluctuating weather conditions standard in summer. That’s because the natural fibres help to offset the difference in temperature throughout the day.

Cash-Mere Kaschmir Rundhals Pullover
Sweaters
CHF135.–

Cash-Mere Kaschmir Rundhals Pullover

#4 Well-fitting jeans:
Denim trousers are one of the nation’s favourite items of clothing – for men and women alike. But of all the pairs in your wardrobe how many can you honestly say are a perfect fit? Thought so. Have a look through the whole range till you strike gold. Then you’ll know what I mean.

Wrangler Larston Stretch (W34/L34)
Jeans

Wrangler Larston Stretch

W34/L34

#5 White trainers:
At some point, high-end trainers managed to jump up a dress code.I’ve even spotted them at weddings. That’s not to say I think it’s OK. I just mean trainers have become more acceptable when they’re combined with a suit – as long as they’re clean, of course.

#6 Leather jacket:
Even if you’re not a biker or hardcore rock fan, a leather jacket is a fashion evergreen in any wardrobe. And it doesn’t even matter what style you opt for. It can be a classic cut or a more casual blouson style – just as long as you have one!

Otto Kern Leather jacket in blouson style
Jackets

Otto Kern Leather jacket in blouson style

#7 White shirt:
The classic of all essential classics is the white cotton shirt. Add a light blue to that and you’re ready for anything.

Ralph Lauren Slim fit shirt (1077049400) (XXL)
Shirts

Ralph Lauren Slim fit shirt (1077049400)

XXL

#8 Chinos:
Unlike jeans, a dark pair of chinos sets you up for any dress code. My favourite combo is white trainers and a denim shirt.

Tommy Hilfiger Suit trousers (48)
Suit

Tommy Hilfiger Suit trousers

48

#9 Shorts:
These days, shorts are a lot better than they’re made out to be. Make sure you snag a pair that’s as versatile as possible by opting for something in black or dark blue. Still not sold? Find out about all the varieties on offer and get tips on how to style shorts here.

#10 Lace-ups:
A basic wardrobe only really needs one pair of high-end shoes, unless you work for a bank. With a smart pair of lace-ups, you’re well-equipped for family holidays, important business lunches as well as weddings. My tip: invest in real leather ones.

What’s your favourite outfit? Let me know in the comments. And if this article got you thinking about updating your wardrobe, here’s the whole clothing range to browse.

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When I’m not exploring the depths of the sea as an open water diver, I enjoy plunging into the world of fashion. On the streets of Paris, Milan and New York is where I keep my eyes peeled for the latest trends. And I’ll show you how to take them from the catwalk to your everyday life. 


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