Recently, I posted 7 Essential Clothing Pieces Every Girl Needs in Their Closet. This week I’m looking at the seven items that guys need in their closet. This is for guys who want to start building a professional, grown-up wardrobe, or maybe you wardrobe is in need of some updating. Here are the first things you should look at.

1) Khaki Trousers

Khaki pants are great for day to day, both for work and a more casual setting. Wear with a nice dress shirt, or maybe a shirt and nice v-neck sweater. I even read somewhere that you can sleep in them, so I guess that means they are super comfy for your day to day life. Try to avoid pleats with these, you want a flat front pant. I also read that if you don’t want khakis, then Chino pants make a good alternative as an essential piece in your closet.

2) Dress Shirt

A dress shirt will be an important part of your wardrobe. Pair it up with a suit or just suit pants and it’s appropriate for work or an event, or you can wear it with jeans for a more casual look. I would suggest getting your essential dress shirt in a white or a light blue, two timeless colors that never go out of style. One you have your essentials you can start having a bit more fun with your dress shirts. Bolder colors or even patterns, but stick to classic patterns and avoid the crazy ones.

3) Blazer

A Blazer, when fitting properly, can broaden shoulders, trim your waist, and overall make you look great! It can be worn for casual situations or a more formal event. Wear it with jeans and a t shirt or a nice dress shirt. Try to find one in a weight you can wear all year long, one to help keep warm in cooler months and won’t make you overheat in the warmer months, There are many styles available, see what is trending, do some research but in the end, buy one that you feel good in and that you think you look good in.

4) Jeans

Jeans a a definite essential for your closet guys!. They can be dressed up or down, they go with almost anything and are great for day to day or certain occasions. For your essential jean, I would recommend a straight-leg. A straight-leg jeans is more versatile than the baggy or skinny variety. The right pair can be worn with a blazer and tie or a t shirt. Invest in a pair that fits you well, that you feel good in, and are comfy enough to wear often.

5) Suit

A nice, well fitting suit is a must have! They look professional for work, and are always good when going to a really nice dressy event. For your essential suit a navy or dark gray suit would be the most versatile. These colors are timeless and you will get a lot of use out of your suit. Be sure to get a suit that fits you well. For this item I would recommend going to the professionals and getting measured and advice. It will cost a bit more but it would be worth it and you would get your money’s worth out of the suit as long as you take care of it.

6) Cardigan or V-neck Sweater

A sweater or cardigan is great for a day that may be a little chilly, or perhaps your office is like working in Antarctica. A V-neck sweater is nice because if you wear it with a dress shirt or polo shirt, the shape gives space for the collar. Or you can choose a button up men’s cardigan. These are nothing like the cardigan’s I’m sure your picturing in your mind. Cardigan’s today come in a more modern slim fit that go with practically everything. No matter which type you choose, pick a darker color that goes with everything.

7) T-Shirt

Everyone needs a good t shirt. They are comfy and can be worn with just about anything! Dress it up with a blazer or rock a classic t shirt and jeans combo. There are many different styles, v-necks, crew necks, polos. Research, shop around, and find one that works for you. For your essential t shirt, maybe go with a color that goes with everything, or make this the bright and colorful piece of your closet. My only advice, stay away from t shirts with stupid or inappropriate slogans, images, anything! Stick to a blank or basic pattern t shirt.

I hope this post helps you start to build your adult and professional wardrobe guys!

Until next time!