How to Build an Adult Male Wardrobe
Many men struggle when trying to build a wardrobe from scratch, especially if a style-savvy mom, sister or ex-girlfriend used to help them in the clothing department. Every man needs several key pieces of clothing to complete his wardrobe, regardless of his style or budget. A plain white shirt is ideal for layering or absorbing sweat, while a crisp, well-fitting pair of black pants easily makes the transition from work wear to formal wear. Start with the basics, then gradually incorporate a few trendy pieces into your wardrobe. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Measure your neck, legs, chest, sleeve length, inseam and waist with measuring tape. Record your measurements and bring them with you when you shop for new clothes. The Art of Manliness, a blog designed to help men live better, reminds males that clothing "should fit your body as it is today, not as you wish it to be two months from now." L.L. Bean offers an online measurement conversion chart for men at llbean.com/shop/guidePages/guideSizes/mens/measure_mens_inches.html.
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Stock up on plain white T-shirts, white socks and boxer shorts. Buy at least 10 of each of these items to avoid going without underwear or drenching your favorite button-down shirt with sweat. Look for these items at well-known retailers such as Target or Walmart, or spend a few extra dollars on brand-name basics at your favorite department store.
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Buy a black or charcoal suit in a lightweight fabric, such as cashmere or wool, suitable for every season. A well-tailored black suit belongs in every man's closet and never goes out of style. Wear your suit to church, weddings, funerals, work, interviews and dates at upscale venues. Nobody looks bad in black.
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Find a flattering pair of black slacks. Wear these with a button-down shirt, a dark polo or a plain white dress shirt. Make sure your pants fit well -- they should lightly graze the top of your shoes, not hit the ground or ride up your calves. Khakis also go well with polos and button-down shirts, so consider buying a pair or two of these classic American pants.
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Fill your closet with polo shirts in every color. A versatile polo shirt easily makes the transition from a day at the office to a night out with the boys. The Executive's Closet, a wardrobe consulting company, suggests adding a blazer for a touch of sophistication. Other shirts that complete any male wardrobe include button-down shirts in solid colors or pin stripes, soft V-neck sweaters and V-neck T-shirts.
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Buy several pairs of jeans in various styles and shades. Avoid jeans that bulge, pinch or ride up in the back. A properly fitting pair of jeans should graze the top of your shoes, just like your black slacks and khakis. Conceal thick or stumpy legs with factory fading and a dark denim rinse. Boot-cut jeans flatter most shapes and sizes.
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Build your shoe collection with well-designed, high-quality leather shoes. Well-made shoes last for years as long as you remember to shine, polish and care for them properly. Every man needs a pair of athletic shoes, a pair of semi-casual shoes such as loafers, a pair of sandals or flip flops and a sleek pair of black dress shoes.
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Choose your accessories. A brown belt complements nearly any outfit, while a black belt keeps a pair of formal black or gray slacks from falling down. Make sure you have at least one or two ties on hand, even if you don't wear a suit often. Consider buying a few hats, a vest or even a fun pair of suspenders.
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Tips & Warnings
Buy clothes that look and feel good -- comfort matters.
Consider adding a satchel, also known as a man bag, to your wardrobe.
Avoid denim shorts. They went out of style years ago.
References
Resources
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