Over the years I’ve compiled quite an extensive wardrobe collection. I’m the type of person to hoard my clothes rather than reselling or giving them away, even if I might not wear them often. Needless to say, it’s gotten to the point where my closet and dresser just aren’t big enough to hold them all in my apartment. My wardrobe might be a bit excessive, but I made sure to include some items that I can always fall back on.

There are certain clothes that every man should have in his closet. A well-equipped wardrobe will ensure that you’re ready for any occasion. It’s also just as important to know how to mix-and-match these items to create your own style. Here are some must-have items you should have in your closet that will never go out of style, as well as some style tips from yours truly!

• A suit: Whether it’s for a job interview, a wedding or for a night out, a suit is an absolute must-have. Make sure your blazer and pants are the same color/shade. No dark greys matched with light greys. People will notice even the slightest difference!
• White dress shirt: Another piece to complete the suit. White, because it goes with any color suit.
• Black/brown dress shoes: You have to have the right dress shoes to go with the suit. Black dress shoes will go with almost any color suit. Brown dress shoes will work with grey or blue suits.
• Plaid/Chambray button-up: You can’t go wrong with a plaid/chambray shirt because they fit almost any casual occasion. You can wear them on your day off at the park, on a lunch date, your night out with friends, etc. Roll up the sleeves for those extra style points.
• Dark blue jeans: This is probably the most versatile piece of clothing I own. It’s so easy to mix-and-match with them and it can be dressed up with a button-up or dressed down with a plain white tee. I suggest raw selvedge denim. They might be stiff at first, but they will naturally form to your legs with more wear and will soon be your favorite pair. Plus, you can cuff them at the bottom, which is always a nice option to have.
• A pair of khakis: A nice change of style from jeans for your casual wear. Plus, khakis almost always work well with button-ups that can be paired with dark blue jeans as well!
• Belts: A black/brown leather belt to use when you dress up. Canvas belts are more for casual wear.
• A pair of sneakers: Sneaker culture is huge, and for good reason. There are so many different options and so many different ways to style them. You just have to find the right pair for your style. I have always stuck to Converse Chuck Taylors and Nikes because they go with almost everything.
• A pair of brown boots: Boots are a must-have so that you can dress up your casual wear. Boots are a distinguishing factor in a man’s closet because you can’t always wear sneakers. They work best with button-ups and jackets. I suggest the Desert Boots by Clark’s, because they’re simple and will last you years.

• A pair of sunglasses: Sunglasses are another item that work well with everything. The style of sunglasses depends on your preference, but may I suggest the classic look of Ray-bans?
• Watches: Every man should own a watch—one for casual wear and one for more fancy occasions. Strapped watches are more casual and leather/metal banded watches are more formal. One should always know the time of day and that time is money!

With these basics in your wardrobe, it’s up to you to style them to create your own personal look. Happy styling!

Rae