The 10 Essential Pieces No Man Should Be Without

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The 10 Essential Pieces No Man Should Be Without

Words by The MR PORTER Team

13 August 2024

No two men are the same – and nor should they be. However, among the flourishes of individuality you might get from the latest LOEWE bag or a handmade BODE piece, there are certain staples that every man needs in order to build a long-lasting and reliable wardrobe. With this in mind, we decided to put together a list of the 10 items we believe to be true essentials.

Our intention with this edit was to select the clothing that most men would find most useful this autumn and winter. What do we mean by “useful”? Well, these are classic, timeless pieces that are free from the fickleness of trends and therefore exceedingly versatile and, indeed, valuable. These are the essential essentials, if you will. Investing in a few items from this list will at the very least bring some solid options to your wardrobe. Or feel free to buy the lot – we’re not about to stop you.

Anyway, here it is: 10 things every man should own this season.

At MR PORTER, we’re here to champion – and cater for – all shapes and sizes. To make the most of whatever you’ve been blessed with. And what if we told you that there’s an item of clothing that will fill out your shoulders while also nipping in your waist? Introducing the double-breasted blazer. It’s an enduring piece that will smarten up any look – especially in the deft hands of Brunello Cucinelli, The Row or Loro Piana. But it’s also easily adapted to more casual ensembles. Broad appeal, then.

As far as extra layers go, you really can’t go wrong with a knitted sweater. But you can also go a lot more right. Elevated fabrics such as cashmere offer better temperature regulation, not to mention a softer handle. Crew-neck pullovers, as the name suggests, can be easily pulled on over most base layers, while knitted polo shirts offer a smart point of difference. Go-to brands such as The Elder Statesman have turned knitwear into a signature move, so look out for standout patterns or bold touches of colour.

When it comes to shirts, casual can mean relaxed, but it certainly shouldn’t be careless. Which is to say that everyday doesn’t need to be ordinary, or that something that looks thrown on doesn’t have to be literally thrown on. In short, rethink your shirt. From a classic Oxford button-up or denim piece to a rugged plaid in a luxurious cashmere, take this staple up a notch with brands such as Dries Van Noten, Massimo Alba and God’s True Cashmere.

In the era of the “It” bag, a tatty old canvas tote will no longer do. And for men about town, there are a few options for day-to-day use. For quality-assured craftsmanship, you can’t beat a leather backpack from the likes of SAINT LAURENT, which will wear its years well. For the weekend, a tote or messenger bag does the job nicely – take these cult pieces from Bottega Veneta, LOEWE and Gucci.

The weather may not know if it’s coming or going, but at least you will. From a denim jacket that will work harder to a biker that is miles better than most, stick to time-honoured outerwear from brands such as visvim or TOM FORD. For a new take on a classic, hitch a lift with a trucker by Gallery Dept., or opt for Sacai’s sleek yet directional style.

06. The jeans

Good genes are a cruel lottery, but good jeans? Much more obtainable. Every man needs a pair, and since you’re likely to be wearing them a lot, it’s worth investing in some that will last. We suggest going for a wide-leg pair, such as these by Cherry Los Angeles. But, if you prefer a straight cut and timeless appeal, AGOLDE, LOEWE and Dries Van Noten have your legs covered.

07. The sneakers

It’s the go-to shoe for many of us, but everyone has their own preference when it comes to brand and style of sneaker. Do you want something with sporting pedigree or designer je ne sais quoi? For some, Common Projects has the low-key sneaker sewn up, while New Balance has put in the legwork on the ever-so-popular retro-sportswear front; alternatively, try SAINT LAURENT or Golden Goose. Either way, a discreet pair means you won’t put a foot wrong.

08. The white T-shirt

Originally an undergarment, but given a main-character makeover by the likes of Mr Marlon Brando, the classic white tee is as dependable as they come. But haven’t you ever wanted more from yours? That could be very wearable refinement from Massimo Alba, or if-you-know-you-know motifs from brands as diverse as Jacquemus, LOEWE or Gallery Dept. Say it with your chest – or don’t.

09. The chinos

Smarter than jeans but dialled down from formal trousers, the chino sits – or stands – in a sweet spot, meaning it’s suited for most occasions, for most men. Of course, it wouldn’t hurt to raise your game. At a stretch, that could be a bit of stretch from clothing technician Stone Island, or the nonchalance of AMI PARIS’ lustrous cotton-sateen. Mr P. offers a khaki green from our Consciously Crafted collections, while Neighborhood has a breezy straight-legged cut in a beige to match.

10. The smart shoes

MR PORTER’s new shoe offering can take you in many directions. Then again, good footwear is typically also incredibly nimble. A monk strap sits just below an Oxford on the formal scale, but these by Mr P. can work their way into most outfits. Chelsea boots, such as this suede silhouette by TOM FORD, are sleek and sturdy. Loafers are the shoes of the moment, but Gucci’s horsebit design is set to endure. The Derby is traditionally a more leisurely style, but this pair by Tod’s can be easily dressed up.