What Are the Essential Items Every Man Should Have in His Work Wardrobe?

Imagine opening your closet each morning, you know exactly what you are going to wear, you look effortlessly chic and put together, and you feel completely at ease with whatever you are ready for. 

At Suits Unlimited, we think no man should have to look good or feel good with a ton of effort. If you have an important meeting, a first date in mind, or simply wish to enhance your everyday look, stack the deck in your favor by familiarizing yourself with the essential pieces that form the basis for a polished, confident look.

And the good part? We’ll even teach you how to easily tie it all together, literally, with great combinations, premium ties, pocket squares, and accessories that make all the difference.

So, let’s get to it and start to create a wardrobe that works for you.

Essential Tops

Classic White Dress Shirt

The white dress shirt is undeniably the foundation of men’s clothing. It works for formal occasions and business appointments but can also be dressed down for casual settings. 

Choose good-quality cotton fabric and a medium spread collar to allow breathability. Just ensure it is slim-fitting, not tight, so you avoid the “baggy shirt” look.

Solid Colored T-Shirts

Essential tees in neutral colors such as black, white, gray, and navy are key. They are great as a base for layering and can be easily worn with other bottoms for a casual yet classy look. 

Choose quality cotton or cotton-blended fabrics so these items don’t shrink or fade after a few washes. A fitted silhouette without being too tight or clinging to the body.

Polo Shirts

Polo shirts walk the line between casual and dressy – ideal for times when you need to look more polished than a t-shirt but don’t want to wear a button-down. 

It’s the collar that lends just enough formality to make it ideal for smart-casual and even business-casual settings. Don’t look for polo shirts that are too fitted or too loose; they should have a nice fitting comfortable fit.

Oxford Button Down Dress Shirt

The Oxford shirt is one of the most versatile garments you will own. Less formal than a dress shirt, yet dressy enough for work or a gathering, its textured fabric brings a bit of suaveness to any outfit. It can be worn styled in a few different ways, and it’s flattering tucked in and left out. Opt for timeless colors as well, such as white, light blue, or soft pink – these hues flatter everyone and never go out of style

Essential Bottoms

Dark Denim Jeans

A man can never have too many pairs of dark denim jeans, and every man needs at least one great-fitting pair. 

Whereas faded and distressed jeans can be casual, dark denim is sophisticated and can be dressed up or down depending on the circumstance. But look for a pair of straight or slim-fit jeans in a dark indigo or black wash. Try to avoid overly distracting or flashy ornamentation to make them timeless.

Chinos

Chinos in khaki, navy, or grey provide a dressier yet still relaxed and comfy option to denim. 

Though they have a little stretch, this pair of cotton chinos is comfortable and flexible. Chinos are the perfect in-between from casual to formal – whether off to the office or for drinks with friends.

Dress Trousers

When jeans and chinos are not appropriate, dress pants are the solution. There’s nothing like a great pair of trousers to immediately add polish when dressing for work, a wedding, or even a serious event.

Outerwear Essentials

Blazer

A well-fitted blazer can elevate any outfit. A navy sport coat “goes with anything — denim or dress pants and works for a variety of occasions.

Casual Jacket

A bomber, peacoat, or leather casual jacket, depending on your climate and personal style, lends some attitude to your wardrobe. These are good layering pieces and add a bit of swagger to casual looks.

Overcoat

A functional and stylish option for cold weather is a traditional overcoat, in a neutral color such as camel, grey, or black. It can be worn over suits or casual wear.

Men's Accessories

Belts - A Functional & Stylish Must Have

A belt is not only functional - it also acts as a supporting character in your look, a cohesive detail.

Ties - The Ultimate Statement of Elegance

A good tie can make an instant stylish difference at a business meeting, a formal event, or a smart-casual occasion.