6 Staple Clothing Items Every Man Should Own

One of the first questions I ask a new client is: Do you own a pair of (clean) white sneakers? Certain wardrobe pieces never go out of style. They’re versatile, timeless, and act as the foundation for any well-dressed man. Whether you’re starting from scratch or just looking to upgrade, here are six essentials every guy should have in his closet.

1) Crew-neck Sweater

A great crew-neck sweater can be layered over a shirt, under a jacket, or worn on its own.

💡 Pro tip: Invest in cashmere or high-quality cotton, and get a few in neutral tones like grey, navy, or camel. I swear by the one from Banana Republic. I've recommended it to so many clients that I should honestly be on their payroll.

2) White Sneakers

Clean white sneakers are the MVP of a great outfit. They go with jeans, chinos, shorts, and even suits.

🧼 Style tip for 2025: Stick to a minimal design, but don’t be afraid of a pop of colour in the detailing. Brown, navy, or forest green are easy to match without being too loud. Just promise me you’ll keep them clean.

3) Beige Trench Coat

If you’re only going to have one outerwear piece for Spring and Fall, make it a trench coat. It’s sharp, functional, and adds instant polish to whatever you’re wearing.

🧥 Quick note: Don’t confuse this with a bomber or a peacoat (also great!), but if you’re going for a capsule wardrobe, the trench is the most versatile place to start.

4) Brown Boots

Wear them with jeans for a night out or with dress pants for a more formal setting.

👞 Why brown over black? Brown adds colour and depth to your look. It pairs with just about everything, except maybe an all-black outfit, which is a rare exception.

5) White T-shirt

I’m stating the obvious here, but it’s essential. Less obvious is choosing a good quality t-shirt. 

🧵 What to look for: A thick, structured collar that holds up after multiple washes, and a textured fabric that gives your outfit a little something extra. Don’t just grab the cheapest three-pack and call it a day.

6) White No-show Socks

This one might seem like a footnote (pun intended), but no-show socks make a huge difference in looking put-together, especially when wearing sneakers or loafers.

🧦 Pro tip: Go for socks that actually stay in place and don’t slip off halfway through your day.

Bonus: FAQs

1. What clothing items should every man have in his wardrobe?

A good quality crew-neck sweater in a neutral colour, white sneakers, beige trench coat, brown Chelsea boots, a good quality white t-shirt, and white no-show socks. 

2. Are white sneakers still in style in 2025?

Yes. (Clean) White sneakers are incredibly versatile and pull many outfits together, whether you’re trying to dress down a formal outfit or look sharp for a casual night out. In 2025, opt for a pair with colour detailing in a neutral colour like brown, blue, or forest green.

Want help refining your style or building your own capsule wardrobe? I offer one-on-one consultations tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and budget. Let’s make getting dressed the easiest part of your day.