The simple style essentials to see you through this season
The wardrobe basics that will get you ready to handle anything a return to normal life throws at you
The pandemic has definitely changed the way we dressed. Clothes have become looser, more casual, and less put together. Before last year, getting dressed may have been part of a therapeutic same-thing-every-day routine that Steve Jobs and his rollneck would have been proud of. Even if you already worked from home, what you wore before Covid arrived may not serve you anymore. Or maybe your old work-to-weekend outfits had a smart casual undertone, featuring pieces that you can’t even look at now.
Getting dressed is about balancing function and form. Your clothes are a reflection of your personal style and they also need to help you do the things that you want to do every day. So, as life slowly inches back to normal, we thought it timely to put together a concise edit of the pieces that promise to see you through the transition and beyond. Fewer trends, more timelessness…
1.
Proper pyjamas
Whether or not you pride yourself on getting out of your pyjamas for a day in front of Zoom, there’s no doubting that you've recently spent more time than usual in bed and/or in front of the TV in your PJs. It’s time, then, to swap out the boxers and T-shirt that you’ve been donning for decades and think about investing in a proper pair of pyjamas. For maximum comfort, pick pieces made from 100% cotton.
2.
Upgraded loungewear
While on the topic of comfort, loungewear has had more airtime than ever over the past 365+ days – and for good reason. If you’re used to wearing a suit to work every day, swapping that out for a comfortable pair of joggers will bring euphoric relief. But are you wearing the right pair? Don’t be afraid to spend money here because if you buy well, you’ll only buy once. Cuffed ankles and a slightly slimmer leg will bring an air of professionalism, while pure cotton versions will help you keep your cool as temperatures rise.
3.
A lightweight jacket
A lightweight, utility-style jacket is a much-loved part of our menswear options – and for good reason. Born of both practicality and style, it’s perfect for this list. Suiting absolutely everyone and almost everywhere, It's versatile and easy to throw on in a moment. Utility jackets tend to look best in neutral colours, such as khaki and navy, so stick to one of those.
4.
Colourful socks
Wearing colour – even just a hint – can do all sorts of things to lift your mood. And right now your feet have probably never had so much airtime, whether you’re still wearing shoes around the house or not. Picking up a pair (or two) of boldly coloured socks will add brightness to even the dullest days. And when life is fully back to normal, you’ll likely find that you still stick your bright orange pair on underneath your suit.
5.
A chunky fleece
One of the biggest new menswear trends has to be ‘ramblecore’, as our production editor calls it. These are the pieces you rely on to keep you warm and dry as you spend more time outside but that are still seriously on-trend. It's not quite summer yet, so cooler days and evenings might call for a big, chunky fleece that you can wear inside and out. It will looks good with pretty much everything (save for a suit, perhaps) and you’ll be proud to show it off. Stick to neutral colours like grey, blue or black.
6.
Technical footwear
On that note, let this be the year that you embrace the world of technical footwear. After all, with heavy showers still making regular unwelcome appearances, what’s worse than heading out for a walk or run only to have soaking feet five minutes after you’ve left the house? Maybe you’re planning to meet friends out and about more or perhaps you’ve recently found joy in lunchtime strolls but wherever on the rambler scale you sit, it’s time to invest in footwear that looks good and feels great.
7.
Hero cashmere
Cashmere is one of life's greatest luxuries. Well crafted, incredibly light and built to last, it should always be included in a list like this – at this time of year, it's perfect for the moments when the sun dips behind a cloud and things turn chilly. No matter your personal style you’ll always find a cashmere piece to suit you, from joggers and hoodies to half-zip and crew neck jumpers. Or, if you’re looking to truly invest, a last-forever overcoat.
8.
The everyday blazer
The quickest way to look (and feel) like your best professional self is to throw on a simple, everyday blazer. It doesn’t need to be particularly structured or go with one specific pair of trousers but instead, should blend in well with what you already own, whether that’s a white tee or a hoodie or your favourite Oxford shirt. Investing in a piece like this now will serve you well beyond your WFH days, so be sure to pick it in a neutral colour that you won’t grow tired of.
9.
A staple sweatshirt
There are a couple of basic pieces that every man should own, no matter what he does for a living. One such thing is a well-made sweatshirt, preferably 100% cotton and more than likely in grey, navy or black. A crew-neck sweatshirt pairs well with jeans, pyjamas or suit trousers, and is the perfect piece for dressing from the waist up. And much like the blazer, you’ll be wearing it for many seasons to come.
10.
Well-fitted jeans
Last but by no means least is the all-important pair of jeans. Forget any and all trends when it comes to jeans and instead focus on picking up a well-fitting, slightly loose pair that you can see yourself wearing for years to come. If you fear blue denim, select a dark navy or even black pair and wear it with your staple sweatshirt or hero cashmere. Our favourite brands right now? Edwin, Nudie Jeans and Albam Utility – they’re important brands with sustainable credentials that you can trust.
