Top 12 Mens Wardrobe Apparel Items

bigneil

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A Gentleman always dresses for the occasion, knowing that he may meet the girl of his dreams at any moment. A good wardrobe is essential for business (interviews, lunches, dinners and parties) so it's a good investment also. Here are twelve items that will make a difference.

1) Blue Blazer - If you don't have a Navy Blue Blazer, you need to get one immediately. They go with any outfit, from jeans to dress pants. They are also the perfect coat to offer a lady who is cold. The difference with a blazer and sport coat is that blazers are solid colored and have naval-style metal buttons (preferred). A good second option is Hounds tooth. $300

2) Wool slacks - You need at least 2 pair that match the coat, meaning different color. Get them fitted, tailored, pleated, cuffed with full-break (if you are tall), and have suspender buttons stitched in. $125 tailored.

3) Collared Shirts - You need at least 6 of these, enough to get you through the week, and one for when they are at the dry cleaner (find one that doesn't use chemicals - you should never smell the chemicals on the clothing). Most should not have button-down collars and should have slots on the back to take collar points. Some should have cuff-link cuffs (no button, but extra holes). $70

4) Shoes - You want at least 2 pair because they last exponentially longer if you alternate because they dry out. They should be black and shined regularly. Take care of the shoe shine boy and learn his techniques. $125

5) Suit - You should have 2 suits (matching pants and coat). But if you can only afford one quality suit, spend twice as much for a nice one as they last a lifetime. $600

6) Watch - Ideally you'll have several, with black and brown leather, and with silver and gold metals. $200

7) Belt - Four are needed with the combinations of brown and black, silver and gold buckles. Some belts are invertible with brown on one side, black on the other. $70

8) Tie - Have at least 5 for a week of business. $50

9) Bow Tie - Have at least 1 and know how to tie one within a minute. Girls go crazy for a bow tie and literally will shout across the room if they see you in one. But watch out because they'll mess it up by tugging on it so that's why you must be able to retie it on the spot. $50

10) Suspender Braces - An alternative to belts, have at least 2 pair with one silver and one gold clasps. They button on, so the pants must have 6 buttons stitched in. Make sure the tailor balances them (they always mess it up) with the belt loops. Get the kind that are either silk or stretchable nylon as women love to snap them. This along with Bow Ties is something that will get nearly universal attention from women. $45

11) Brass Collar Points - These make a huge difference by making your collar perfectly sharp and stiff. The plastic ones bow over time. Be sure to remove these before you go to the dry cleaner. $20

12) Cuff Links - Have at least 2 sets including (4) studs, one in silver and one in gold metal. You can buy fancier ones for the cuffs themselves. You need special shirts that fit them and the cuffs are folded differently than regular cuffs. There are countless options so express yourself $50

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A good wardrobe costs about $4000 or more to build, so buy quality items that last a lifetime. None of these will ever go out of style. When you are wearing a suit you built that costs $1000 combined, you feel, act, and will be treated like royalty. No wonder women say "The clothes make the man". Remember to never pay retail but do shop at the top mens stores and look for their sales.
 

DonJuanabe

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If you're starting out try Jos A. Bank when they have their megasales. As in suits normally $750 will be $189. It's not highest quality but it is fine for men who don't make big bucks. The selection of ties is unparalleled.
 

Mr.SomeoneElse

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Great read. There are a few things I think you missed that I would add.

Every man in my opinion should own a NICE pair of Denim Blue Jeans.
Designer quality.
Don't by big blue's from wal-mart
Instead invest the money in one nice pair of jeans and it will make the world of difference.
Some brands i'd recommend would be Diesel, Nudie, or even WESC (but really there are tons ) No one should be wearing cheap denim.

A large amount of Clean White T-shirts.
You can buy packs of them for cheap if you are on a budget.
If not then try and get some that fit nicely.
If you have a bit more to spare you can go to H&M and get the fitted ones for a bit more like $7 a shirt or even the david beckham styled ones that are $20 ish a shirt (Since i started working out the david beckham ones wrap around my bicep and just accentuate the **** out of everything, def worth trying )

I read an article and there are a few studies supporting this fact
that a woman finds blue jeans/white shirt the most attractive outfit
(suits being second. Most likely because of the strength they portray)

A nice leather wallet.
I hopefully don't have to go into detail about this.

A pair of nice sunglasses
Again, I shouldn't have to go into this

And Finally I should add. A leather jacket
Im not talking about some faux-leather jacket
I'm saying save up and buy an expensive one
Leather is the type of clothing that doesnt get worn out it gets worn in
I purchased one for myself last christmas and its possibly the best thing i've bought along with my suit
Real leather has an aroma to it that really cant be compared to anything else, it is it's own scent
and a true leather jacket will customize over the years to your body
 

bigneil

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Mr.SomeoneElse said:
I read an article and there are a few studies supporting this fact that a woman finds blue jeans/white shirt the most attractive outfit.
Very true. In fact, when I went on a critical date last week I chose to wear designer jeans with a white T-shirt (both from Jos. A Bank), suspender braces (for something unique), and a sport coat. No less than 6 women commented on the suspenders, one putting me on like a backpack, another (her sister) has been texting me nonstop ever since.

The key is to establish prizability, and being known as impeccably-dressed is one way. Last night it was the bow tie.
 

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Mike32ct

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BigNeil: What kind of outfit do you wear your bowtie with?

I love bowties but other than a tux, I can't think of a way to wear one. Although I've seen some younger fellas wearing like a bowtie, white shirt, and tux vest when they go out.
 

BigSmooth

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Mike32ct said:
BigNeil: What kind of outfit do you wear your bowtie with?

I love bowties but other than a tux, I can't think of a way to wear one. Although I've seen some younger fellas wearing like a bowtie, white shirt, and tux vest when they go out.
Well I'm in the South so the culture might be a little different, but I usually wear a bowtie with a blazer (navy, light grey), a collared shirt underneath, and linen/twill//chino pants or slacks.




And yes, I am a HUGE supporter of this look:

Navy Blazer
Light Colored Sports Shirt
Stone Colored Chino Pants/White Washed Wrangler Jeans
Southern Style Bow-tie
Loafers/Boat Shoes/Cowboy Boots


And please men, make sure your belt color matches your shoes when you are trying to dress up.
 

bigneil

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13) Handkerchief (or Pocketsquares) in breast pocket. This is a small detail that you will notice sportscasters always use these days. You have to learn how to fold them (there are many ways). It is handy to carry a clean, silk handkerchief in case the lady needs one. Today on my first day on a new job the manager came over and complimented me on the pocket square and said "this guy knows how to dress". Don't underestimate the importance of dressing well in business. They want you to advertise for them.

Here are some of the other things that happen when you dress well:

1) The female manager of Jos A Bank asks you out.
2) A hot girl at the bar asks you if you are in investment banker (watch out for girls who say "what kind of engineer?").
3) As you walk through a strip club, girls who are actually table dancing for other men shout compliments at you (it was the bow tie, and the men paying $5 a minute did not seem pleased).

Trust me, not long ago people asked why I dressed like such a slob. I don't mean my parents but them too. Remember: it not only takes years to build a wardrobe, but years to learn how to act and feel comfortable when wearing the right clothes.
 

Upside

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$50 for 5 ties? Unless it's at the dollar tree, you should expect any decent ties to go for $15 a pop for $75.
 

jhl

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Mr. Someoneelse has the most practical advice of all posts I see on this thread. You actually know how to dress for pickup. Kudos to you.

As for the rest....blue blazer to meet the girls of your dreams for real? And let me guess....it should have golden colored buttons and should be paired with beige khaki pants and black shoes with tassels right?

If you dress like this in a non-business setting, you need a serious wardrobe change.

That is THE worst generic look you can possibly have when you go out. Unless you live in the boondocks the only girls you are gonna pick up are old hags, gold diggers, and girls with daddy issues.

My rule of thumb on blazers for casual settings is this: If you pair your blazers with sneakers and it looks ok, then your blazer is hip enough. If there is a mismatch, then your blazer is too rigid and not fashionable enough.

In this day and age, you need an EDGE and there are tons of stuff out there to give you that.

For upscale casual clothing I wear John Varvatos (www.johnvarvatos.com). Outlet stores carry them, they are on sale all the time online, and they are dumped on ebay from time to time. I dress head to toe in this stuff when I go out and I will get at least 3+ compliments in places like Manhattan on a weekend day.

If you wanna go on a budget I suggest Allsaints or H&M (www.allsaints.com or http://www.hm.com/us/). In particular, allsaints leather jackets are fitted and follow the trendiest leather jackets out there from Europe. It's not as expensive as the super brands but still hold in quality and are good enough without breaking your bank.

This is type of leather jacket that works well in the big cities:

http://www.allsaints.com/men/leather/allsaints-caldwell-jacket/?colour=5&category=9

Distressed fitted leather jacket. Used to be super exclusive when it was only being made by the super brands. It was total chick crack and probably still is.

As for general fashion advice I think CH explains this stuff well except that I don't vibe at all with his preference for lime colored sportscoats:

http://heartiste.wordpress.com/2010/06/04/dress-like-a-sexy-beast/
 

BigSmooth

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jhl said:
Mr. Someoneelse has the most practical advice of all posts I see on this thread. You actually know how to dress for pickup. Kudos to you.

As for the rest....blue blazer to meet the girls of your dreams for real? And let me guess....it should have golden colored buttons and should be paired with beige khaki pants and black shoes with tassels right?

If you dress like this in a non-business setting, you need a serious wardrobe change.

That is THE worst generic look you can possibly have when you go out. Unless you live in the boondocks the only girls you are gonna pick up are old hags, gold diggers, and girls with daddy issues.
Huh? Maybe if you bought a $3 blue blazer from Goodwill.

My rule of thumb on blazers for casual settings is this: If you pair your blazers with sneakers and it looks ok, then your blazer is hip enough. If there is a mismatch, then your blazer is too rigid and not fashionable enough.
I have NEVER seen a man wear a blazer with sneakers.


In this day and age, you need an EDGE and there are tons of stuff out there to give you that.
Yes, and too much edge makes people think you are homosexual.

For upscale casual clothing I wear John Varvatos (www.johnvarvatos.com). Outlet stores carry them, they are on sale all the time online, and they are dumped on ebay from time to time. I dress head to toe in this stuff when I go out and I will get at least 3+ compliments in places like Manhattan on a weekend day.

If you wanna go on a budget I suggest Allsaints or H&M (www.allsaints.com or http://www.hm.com/us/). In particular, allsaints leather jackets are fitted and follow the trendiest leather jackets out there from Europe. It's not as expensive as the super brands but still hold in quality and are good enough without breaking your bank.

This is type of leather jacket that works well in the big cities:

http://www.allsaints.com/men/leather/allsaints-caldwell-jacket/?colour=5&category=9

Distressed fitted leather jacket. Used to be super exclusive when it was only being made by the super brands. It was total chick crack and probably still is.

As for general fashion advice I think CH explains this stuff well except that I don't vibe at all with his preference for lime colored sportscoats:

http://heartiste.wordpress.com/2010/06/04/dress-like-a-sexy-beast/
I guess we are from vastly different regions because no man has ever worn that type of leather jacket here, much less a leather jacket in general.

And sorry, I do not agree with that bottom link at all. A tight t-shirt with a blazer? Really?
 

jhl

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BigSmooth said:
Huh? Maybe if you bought a $3 blue blazer from Goodwill.
A >$500 blazer from Ralph Lauren/Polo/Brooks Brothers/Joseph Banks fits the same bill.

I have NEVER seen a man wear a blazer with sneakers.

Texas....explains it.


BigSmooth said:
Yes, and too much edge makes people think you are homosexual.
Texas....explains it.

BigSmooth said:
I guess we are from vastly different regions because no man has ever worn that type of leather jacket here, much less a leather jacket in general.

And sorry, I do not agree with that bottom link at all. A tight t-shirt with a blazer? Really?
Yup we are from vastly different markets my friend. Whatever works for you in Texas.
 

bigneil

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jhl said:
Blue blazer to meet the girls of your dreams for real? If you dress like this in a non-business setting, you need a serious wardrobe change. That is THE worst generic look you can possibly have when you go out.
A Tribute to The Navy Blazer

"A gentleman in a navy-blue blazer sails through life with utter self-confidence. More than any other jacket in the world of wardrobe, the navy blazer has earned its right of admission to virtually any event that does not require black tie and patent-leather shoes. Its origins are in the world of sailing, and it carries with it the snappy air of the ships captain and the debonair style of a kingly yachtsman. Its brass buttons, a relic of its military past, come in handy for catching the eye of an attractive stranger - or a negligent ****tail server. If it is cut from good worsted wool, a navy blazer can travel in all climates and in all seasons. In the fall and winter, it seems to drawn to a pair of gray flannel trousers, while in springtime and summer, it is perfectly set off by a pair of light grays, colorful cottons, or even white linens. If a gentleman's wardrobe can be said to have an actual staple it is his blazer. For many a gentleman, it is the first jacket ever bought for him by his parents. It may be replaced by another blazer almost exactly like it, but the relationship remains the same forever - confident, unpretentious, and unwavering."

"A Gentleman Gets Dressed Up" p. 76 John Bridges and Bryan Curtis (the Bible of dress sold at Jos A Bank)

PS - That is the girliest leather jacket I ever saw.

Upside said:
$50 for 5 ties? Unless it's at the dollar tree, you should expect any decent ties to go for $15 a pop for $75.
All prices were for one item (ex. 1 tie is $50).
 

jhl

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I always get into these neverending arguments with Americans from small cities so I'm gonna stop it right here....I don't have time.

Let's just say just b/c you've never seen these things and it's a bit fashion forward doesn't make it girly or gay.

Just take a look at this pic:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/35313323@N07/3341806817/

Call Brad Pitt girly then. I'm sure your'e more masculine anyway. Or will you make the argument he can wear anything he wants b/c he's Brad Pitt?
 

drellum

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Good OP!

My preference/strategy when building a wardrobe is to develop a look that you like and try and develop an individual look.

I like the sports jacket/blazer look with jeans personally. So I would focus on a variety of jackets...Pinstripe, grey, cheques. Plus add a variety of well folded pocket squares. (Ted Baker jackets are nice).

Jeans: Personally like Diesel Viker.

Shoes: Brogues (Trickers), Blundstones, and dressing down With classic converse shoes.

T shirts: I like the Autograph selection at M&S. Nice quality and fit well. It you have muscles, they look great.

Shirts: Like to keep it simple with plain colours,pink, white, black (HM have a decent easy iron fitted shirt)....Gant have some nice dressier shirts (choose nice cuff links.)

Leather: Schott??
 

PDubb75

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Some great suggestions in here.

Age and location has a large impact on all of this. And then, of course, you add personal style and you are going to see differences.

The OP listed some of the most basic must-haves. However, for my age, it's rarely what I find successful for pickups.

I agree with jhl. I have a jacket similar to this: Kenneth Cole Black Leather. I have not gone out in a blazer and sneakers too often, but at the right places, I get a huge amount of positive attention.

I definitely have no problems pushing boundaries with fashion. The key is, you can't put an outfit on that isn't "typical" fashion and walk around like you own the place. But if you come off as some happy, put-together guy just going out to have fun, the styles work great.

jhl, where do you live?
 

bigneil

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jhl said:
I love Brad Pitt.
At 5'11 170, Brad Pitt is a generally woman's choice of good looking, not a man's. Though he dresses well sometimes and he has aged gracefully.
 
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