The sartorial male knows all too well the importance of a well put-together outfit, and a carefully curated image has the power to make a great first impression on the people who matter, as well as opening those all-important doors to bigger and better things.
Nevertheless, getting it right can be difficult, and with fashion trends coming and going with each passing season, it can often feel impossible to keep up. But there is a secret to success.
Creating a high-end look doesn’t have to mean keeping your finger on the fashion pulse at every waking hour, and in fact, it’s the classic and timeless pieces you have in your wardrobe that have the greatest power to make a lasting impression. Classic cuts and silhouettes, quality materials and styles that never fall out of the favour will instantly and effortlessly elevate your look and exude good taste while doing so – and building a capsule wardrobe will ensure that you always have the right look for an occasion without the need for excessive buying.
When it comes to high-end fashion, you really do get what you pay for, so be prepared to splurge on a few key pieces, and you’re certain to thank yourself for it later. Visit a few designers’ stores to get a feel for which you like best – and be prepared to shop around to ensure you’re investing in the very best garments and accessories money can buy.
From luxury timepieces and diamond cufflinks to the basic garments that will always have your back, these are the game-changing items that every well-dressed man should have in his wardrobe, whatever his age happens to be. And, with a new season now just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get out that credit card and treat yourself to a complete overhaul and wardrobe update.
A luxury timepiece
If there’s one item that is guaranteed to stand the test of time, it’s a luxury timepiece. Swiss watches have long been seen as a mark of good taste and quality, and some of the world’s most renowned high-end brands, like Rolex and Patek Philippe, should be your first port of call for a show-stopping wristwatch that will last you for years to come.
A masterpiece of engineering, a luxury watch is the perfect piece for pulling together an outfit. At the office or in the boardroom, it will command respect and show that you mean business when worn alongside a sharp suit, while on a dinner date or at lunch with friends, it’s the perfect way to add a little style to even the most laid-back of looks.
Add to that the fact that a high-end timepiece is an investment that could go on to become a family heirloom and be handed down through the generations, and it’s a no brainer.
A tailored suit
Every sartorial male should have a tailored suit in his wardrobe for those special occasions – whether it’s an important business meeting or a wedding. The single-breasted style makes for a classic look that never falters, and an experienced tailor will be able to provide you with a made-to-measure, flattering two-piece designer suit like no other.
If, until now, you’ve always bought straight off the hanger, then now is the time to draw a line, because once you go tailored, you’ll never go back.
A sports jacket
A sports jacket or blazer is another key garment that you should have in at least one colour – if not several. A slightly more laid-back yet ultra-stylish alternative to a suit jacket, it’s the perfect partner for any smart-casual look, and pairs flawlessly with a smart pair of skinny or slim cut jeans with a plain t-shirt and brogues or loafers.
For maximum versatility, go with a dark colour like navy or charcoal grey. Avoid black – save it for suits and tuxedos for those more formal occasions, instead.
A crisp white shirt
Whilst it might seem like a rather boring item to have in your wardrobe, a crisp, white shirt is an absolute essential and the foundation to any well-put-together look. Seeing you through every season in style, you can wear a classic variety with a tie for a formal occasion, or tucked into jeans with your sports jacket for a more casual affair. For the summer months, opt for a linen variety and wear open-collared with chinos or a pair of tailored shorts to nail the kind of style that screams good taste and affluence.
A set of diamond cufflinks
Sometimes, a smart suit just isn’t enough, and a pair of diamond cufflinks is the ultimate way to inject some extra glamour and sophistication into a formal outfit and show that you mean business. Forever remaining one of the classiest accessories for men, they may have once been worn only with tuxedos, but today, they can be worn with all manner of sharp attire.
The perfect finishing touch for an important event – be it a boardroom meeting, client dinner or awards ceremony – wear alongside your luxury designer timepiece for maximum impact.
If diamond-encrusted isn’t your vibe, then consider a simple gold pair, engraved with your initials – or a minimalistic platinum pair for maximum impact without the fuss.
The bottom line
The perfect men’s wardrobe is all about simplicity, clean lines and sharp cuts, paired with monochromes and neutrals, are all you need to see you through just about every eventuality without missing a beat. Creating a capsule wardrobe based around some key items such as these will allow you to form the basis for a suave and respectable image with effortless ease, and by simply changing up a garment or accessory or two depending on where you’re going, you can quickly transform your look.
These five items are luxury investments that will last you for years to come – just be sure to splash out on the utmost in quality, and you’ll thank yourself for it later.
