A nice clean, well fit shirt will get the most mileage of any other article of clothing you may wear. Fortunately for all of us, shirts can be found in an infinite number of colors and styles at a reasonable price point and any location. All of these options can pose a serious problem. How does a man find a shirt which allows him to separate himself from everyone else? Lets start answering this complicated question by reviewing some of the things you should avoid. Maybe you are training to be the next Anderson Silva however, unless you are currently walking from the locker room to the cage, and/or you are getting paid to be seen in it, a man should never wear TapouT, Affliction, or any other apparel related to the UFC. Now I have nothing against the UFC, and I understand most people in that lifestyle could kick my ass, however this goes against one of the fundamental rules laid out in our philosophy.

“Never wear clothing that is easily if at all recognizable as a brand.”

This philosophy also make it easy to eliminate many other brands. Donate your Abercrombie to your Jr. High cousin, get rid of your Ed Hardy, Hurley, and even your Polo. Add to your pile of throw-aways, any seemingly witty quotes or puns you may have found at Urban Outfitters, along with all the old brand or 80’s TV show shirts you bought with them (that Luck Charm, or GI Joe Shirt). Perhaps this is a lot to ask, but consider this your rebirth as a fashionable man. Furthermore, you are now in the working world, it is no longer socially acceptable to brag about how much you can drink, how fast you can drink, or how much you like drinking. This means it is also time to bounce the Bud Light shirt you got on spring break, no matter how wicked a time it was. I will also say the next part as a tribute to my location, your Fraternity shirt was not that cool in college, and it certainly is not any cooler now that you are a professional. Give your Sunday night drinking club T to your girl friend when she spends the night. The discovery of common interest, such as a fraternity, or your love for GI Joe should come through conversation, not a billboard on your chest.

Perhaps you have a few shirts that are a touch to big, maybe you do not know how a shirt should properly fit (if not check out the 101 here), or maybe you actually did steal that shirt out of your dads closet. Either way let’s find a way to eliminate the baggy look. Check out the article on tailoring, or if they are not that important consider donating them to salvation army. Now let’s get started.

We have eliminated a few things from the closet which is awesome because it means we get to fill the space with something new. A great way to go about filling that space is to think versatility. I’m going to start by highlighting a few shirts which will get some extra miles of wear, versus getting too crazy (but do not worry, we will get there). Think simple. Simple colors, cuts, and designs. Simple shirts can say a few different things, they are clean and classy and they allow you the opportunity to focus on a different aspect of your outfit.

Oliver Spencer Long Sleeve Shirt

Take a look at this simple long sleeve T by Oliver Spencer. Matched appropriately this shirt presents a very clean-cut man and, it’s comfortable. Perfect for your weekend running around. This shirt works so well as a layer piece too. It provides you an opportunity to bring attention directly to your face. Leave it unbuttoned and throw a red or orange shirt on underneath and the color contrast will bring the eye directly to your mug shot. Just make sure you get a good shave in, no point getting a dames attention if you look like you just got out of prison.

Guide London Y Neck T-Shir

This shirt might walk the simplicity line just a touch, but believe me by the time spring rolls around there will be purple everywhere. Throw on a black or white shirt underneath if you need the warmth, but either way it should turn some heads for a few more months. In case you were wondering £24 is about 36$

Theory Striped Tee

Haggie Beanie Hat

Alright, it may seem simple, but trust me this is a must have. Sometimes simple is the best thing for you. Having a black hat with some matching black gloves is something so standard that you may overlook this. So, if you are in this category of need, check this out, and check out their site HERE, they have a very nice selection at reasonable prices. moving on…

Coal Mini Beanie

Alright, this is kinda like a mini cable knit beanie. I chose a cream color because I know a lot of people like that look, and I’m kinda on the fence. I mean, I hate hate hate white cars; so awful, so ugly, so boring but every once in a while a cream colored car comes along and shocks me. I suppose it would work if you really do like it, but I’m totally indifferent right now, I can’t hate on it, and I can’t support it. It’s kind of like the way I feel about TV shows, they’ll surprise you every now and again (Modern Family, Community). Anywho, I think the more bang for your buck is the green cap as you can wear it with black, gray or brown jackets.

Black Knitted Beanie

These loose fitting beanies are very popular these days and its definitely not due to their functionality as most wear it loosely atop and back on their heads. This is the laid back, casual, maybe-I-didn’t-shave-the-past-couple-of-days-and-I-don’t-care look. Very appropriate if you’re going for a rugged style. If you do go for a dark colored beanie, then maybe consider black, tall boots, dark skinny jeans, and a leather jacket or dark peacoat. That outfit would look B.A. You can find these hats almost anywhere these days, so don’t spend a fortune getting one.

Nepal Knit Earflap Hat

Now, if you’re into the ski patrol/lumberjack look this the hat for you. Ear flaps are very youthful and exude much more of a laid back sentiment. I honestly picked this one because it has black and brown in it so you can wear it for almost any colored jacket. This website has a TON of different styles for you to peruse, and for reasonable prices too. Check out their hats HERE, its pretty crazy how many they have. Regardless of which design you go with, you’re essentially getting the same affect of an outdoorys guy (think Colorado, Montana, etc.), so maybe consider that with what your jacket, pants and boots are saying about your outfit. Hopefully they coincide. This isn’t exactly a dressy hat, but lets be honest, we’re not always dressy guys. This is a good mix up to wear to work on a Friday or a weekend activity. Keep it casual, but don’t mix and match dressy and casual, stick to one or the other and you’ll be good. A thick sweater, straight fitting jeans, big boots and a casual jacket would complete this look.

Fjallrave Vintage Backpack

Alright, if you just can’t pull yourself away from the backpack and want to hold onto college just a little longer, which I would highly recommend you do not in the professional environment, or if you’re just in need of a bag for the weekend around town, I would recommend this backpack by Fjällräven. This is a vintage khaki backpack that is a great weekender backpack for getting around. Out of the professional setting you don’t always need to have a messenger bag to carry your things, that’s where a backpack comes into play. But, don’t you still want to be stylish, so consider this retro, outdoorsy pack with leather straps.

Filson Briefcase Bag

You’re young, and you’re not yet ready to transition straight on to the traditional all leather briefcase, so I would recommend a combination of canvas and leather in this briefcase by Filson. Filson has been around a long time and definitely knows how to make some classically styled luggage and travel gear. With brass zippers and leather pulls this bag doesn’t cut any corners. A great look for a young professional who is not ready for the full on leather bag.

Schlesinger Antique Leather Dowel Briefcase

For those of you who are ready for the all leather look, I direct your attention to the antique leather dowel briefcase by Schlesigner. A classic antique and throwback design that simply improves with age. Keep it simple, keep it clean and keep it professional. You don’t have to aggressively demand attention with accessories, as long as its well crafted it can be simple. Modesty is the key with this bag. Albeit simple, it still looks smart.

Saddleback Leather Briefcase

For those of you who like a little more “busy” or eye-catching accessories, this is the bag for you. The Saddleback Leather Co. has created this briefcase (multiple colors) with great confidence that you’ll enjoy it and enjoy it for a long time as it offers a 100 year warranty. That’s a good thing, because you can enjoy this smartly designed and equipped bag for years on end due to its straight forward design. This bag offers no breakable parts like zippers or snaps and claims it can be converted into a backpack, although I don’t see how. Regardless, this piece is brilliantly designed and crafted with incredible quality (100% full grain boot leather) and pride. (Ed. note: whats up with the coffee cup in the picture?) Get this bag and enjoy for years on end.

Schotts N.Y.C. Slim fitting Peacoat

Brought to you by our Navy men and women, the Peacoat may be the most timeless article of mens fashion, and this piece is no exception.  Schott’s has pulled a flank on the classic bulky peacoat, you will find this piece to be nicely tailored and very form fitting.  This simple alteration makes this a first class Peacoat.  Discharge the price, this guy will see many tours of duty over the years.

Magellan Aviators

Ah, the classic Aviator shades (not sure where they originated but I see the Marines taking some credit).  Personally I love Aviators, probably because I have a big head and they are the only sunglasses that look good on me.  Our friends at Eagle Eyes don’t play around either, they are certified by NASA, it has to be good.  I like this gun metal look with the lighter lenses, not your traditional Aviator style.  A higher quality and cheaper price than your typical Rayband’s these glasses are a steal, if that doesn’t sell you the free space pen should.

US Army Surplus Jacket

You may not actually be a “Guardian of the Pacific,” but the US Army will lend you their M65 Field jacket for the time being.  Perhaps the greatest part of any military gear is it functionality.  This jacket is a medium weight, water repellent, has a hidden hood, a removable quilted liner, and velcro cuffs.  All of these features will keep you styling even on a rainy day.

Banana Republic Heritage toggle coat

Here we have Banana Republics Heritage Toggle Coat in what they’re calling a Camel color. My opinion is its green. Regardless, this is a traditionally styled coat with simple clean lines. They offer this coat in a black as well, and I’d say most people lean on getting a darker color for the winter normally, but I think green is absolutely ideal for winter months. You can very easily go from wearing brown boots, belt, etc to a pair of black boots, belt, etc with no clash. Green is a multipurpose/neutral color foundation to build from for almost any outfit. Go green this year and expand your outfit options.

Paddington Coat by Corpus

Here we have an incredibly stylish Paddington coat by Corpus. This is the more classic color (black) that offers a wide collar with hood, in a tough wool blend with kick ass leather belt-esque toggle closures (adjustable). The lining inside is a attractive contrasting plaid along with welt pockets. Also, there is a removable zipper hood. I will say that the back of the jacket is slightly boring so if I were to get this jacket, I would definitely consider going to a tailor and putting a back slit in. There are tons of pictures at the site for a further look. This jacket has that great classic look with it’s updated leather toggles. You’ll stand out with this fashionable coat in the winter time when most are buried under boring trenches and mountain climbing gear.

Full Grain Leather Belt

This belt comes to use courtesy of Belts.com, the lack of a designer name will keep a few Yen in your pocket while maintaining that fresh cut man style we are working for. I really…

like this lighter color. It should pop against any pair of pants you put on, and it can be a great way to liven up your winter black and grey. This belt can perform multiple functions, wether you pair it with jeans and a T for your casual days, or khakis and a button up to the office, if you keep it clean it can go anywhere. This belt is also equipped with snaps so you can change out the buckle whenever your inner Lane Frost wants to show himself (just do not let that be too often).

KJ Beckett Belt

I’m really liking the pattern on this Lucertola brown leather belt by Robert Charles piece I found over the pond, the Brits sure know their stuff. Not to mention, it is handmade in Italy and only about 67$? Sign me up. It comes in a few different colors and the pattern looks equally cool in each of them. This belt will compliment a nice pair of dress pants and like light colored khakis. Not a whole lot to this guy, personally I love it.

Kenneth Cole New York Chelsea Belt

You are a grown up. Own a stunning black belt. No one will ever notice it if you are wearing the right suit, but bring out the wrong belt and your 2000$ suit can look like you stole it off a bum. This simple Kenneth Cole piece can be worn with any pair of dress pants you own. Keep this belt on your dress pants though, I can not endorse the black belt with jeans. The Kenneth Cole name brings with it an expectation of quality, and I would expect nothing less. Belts like this are a timeless investment, and this one happens to be reversible for all of your formal wear needs.

APC New Standard Jeans

Above are probably my favorite jeans currently. These are A.P.C. New Standard Jeans. They’re incredible. These thick and rigid indigo jeans will give you unique, authentic fading and wear as you break them in over time. And yes, you’ll have to break them in a little. It seems a lot of people notice their tight fit when putting them on for the first time. Don’t worry, they’ll loosen up plenty. I’m confident you’ll love them. These jeans are also made from unwashed selvage denim, which is important. This gives them their incredible thick feel and rigid look for clean cut straight lines. For those of you who are unaware washing jeans is not a great idea. It diminishes the life of the jeans by fading the color and reducing rigidity. So grab these up for a incredible pair of jeans this fall and winter.

Rag & Bone RB11 in Indigo

Alright, everyone, I really don’t understand this but Rag & Bone jeans are the hardest things to buy online. Maybe it has something to do with being a kick ass brand or maybe it has to do with supply. I don’t know. All I know is that if you can find a pair of these incredibly modern yet traditional jeans at a local boutique or high quality department store then buy them. They are awesome. This pair (RB11 in Indigo)  isn’t exactly what I was looking for online from them but I honestly couldn’t find anything. Go to a department store and try on a pair, you’ll love their classic look.

Nudie Grim Tim

Here we have a pair of Nudie Grim Tim in a Dry Dirt Organic color. Ridiculous name. But these jeans are super nice. Clean, simple, dark indigo errr, Dry Dirt Organic, with a sleek sheen. I like the form fitting (not skin tight) pants these days opposed to the baggier look right now and these pants fit perfectly for that look. Throw in the fact that they have orange stitching and you have a complete pair of amazing jeans.

Your Best Friend

Before we dive into the complex world of men’s shirts, I figured a few ground rules should be laid out as a guide to help our fashionable followers through some of the basics.

First things first, its time to get a tailor. The days of half size or big dress shirts or pants are over, it’s time to perfect that clean cut look on a whole new level. And this isn’t limited to formal wear either. Casual wear such as jeans and everyday dress shirts sometimes need that extra snip for the form fitting look. I understand the idea can be a little scary, most people are unsure of what exactly a tailor can do for them. I will admit I was a bit nervous on my first trip, but a good tailor can take a good garment and turn it into a great one. I will not take the time to explain every sizing detail from big to small, but you should understand that most of us are not cut exactly to the mold of your normal off the rack shirt. Tailors are the magical men who are able to fix most of your apparel sizing problems, and the best part is they are anxious to do so. Unfortunately, not every tailor is worth his yardage, so here are a few things to find out from a tailor before you trust your most important garments to their scissors.

1. DO NOT be afraid to ask questions. It is your clothing, make sure it is done the way you want it. This should also apply to your tailors capabilities, odds are they have been asked to do everything under the sun already, so whatever you have in mind should be no surprise.
2. Ask for references. Any tailor worth his salt will have a strong list of clients willing to answer some questions for you about their work.
3. Ask for samples. Consider your tailor an artist. Look at the work he has done and decide for yourself if they are someone you can work with, match your tailors style with your own.
4. Work with your tailor. The best tailors simply provide the look you are aiming for, while adding their two cents in the process. They will be vocal but not demanding, they will listen to what you want (even if you are not sure) and lead you to the final look. The pathway of communication between you and your tailor should be clear and wide open. NEVER be afraid to tell them if you do not like the direction they are taking you.
5. Get some average pricing and lead times. Sometimes you can afford to wait a week for an alteration, sometimes you remember on Wednesday you need the garment on Saturday. Know if your tailor is capable of turning out emergency work, and how much all of it will cost.

Most of these points are related, but they should be a great start in your world of finely tuned clothes. Warning, tailoring has been known to be addictive. Realizing everything you own is capable of fitting you perfectly can be life altering (zing). This form of addiction is perfectly acceptable and recommended.

John Varvatos Cardigan

I found this nice little cardigan by John Varvatos poking around the interwebs. I know what you’re thinking, “cardigans are old hat,” (fashion pun, hey-o) and I couldn’t agree more. However, with cardigans their are so many different styles being played with these days that finding the uniquely dapper one you’ve been looking for can still be accomplished. I’m liking heavy loose knit this winter. And this loose, pinstripe piping and ribbing gives this piece not only texture but visible comfort. The cut brings the notion of modern day Mr. Rogers with classic John Varvatos attitude. Warm and stylish. Functional and smart.

Top Man Self Shawl

Your neckline should be growing and diversifying this winter. It’s a great way to mix up your wardrobe and the cut will draw attention to your face. This sweater by Top Man does exactly that without going over the top. You should be able to get a lot of miles out of this sweater, its clean simple design makes it a stable in any man’s wardrobe. The fabric construction makes this garment machine washable for low maintenance. You don’t need to spend a fortune to find “right” clothing, and this sweater is no different at its moderate price. Couple this with a simple garments and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Limi Boutique Purple Cardigan

Tired of all the gray? Spice it up a little with a dash of color this winter. Purple is the new disco. This sweater by Limi Boutique is somewhat louder than what you might be used to as the purple can draw attention, so you are going to have to do some image control when you put it on. Tone it down some with some more conservative counterparts and the overall look will be very flattering. Simple black dress pants, a solid colored shirt, and some casual black dress shoes or boots will have you beating away the winter gray in no time.

Quoddy Grizzley Boot

These Grizzly Moccasin boots made by Quoddy are the steeped in tradition and quality. Originated in the early 1900′s the proprietor prided himself on handmade boots made to order for his dozens, not thousands, of customers. Today the tradition continues and yes the orders they take are limited so get your order in asap. They don’t have loads of products (only seven) but what they do have is incredibly nice. I can’t say enough about these boots. I personally love them. They’re stylish, made to any specifications you desire and a practical boot to wear in slushy snow you might encounter as they’re water proof and rugged enough to endure the harsh weather. Also, I hadn’t been on their site in a while and just noticed their new boots, Deck boot, which I’m definitely digging. Take a peek at the Deck Boot.

Clarks Desert Boot

Alright, I know what you’re thinking? Suede, in the winter and in a light color no less? Well, not quite. The reason I’m into these Clark Desert boot Originals is due to their traditional and classic design. Modeled after the boots worn by British officers in world War II these simple and surprisingly comfortable boots offer an everyday refined yet casual boot. The light color offers a great contrast to the dominated trend of dark jeans. With a crepe sole and soft suede this boot is easy on your feet all day long. The best quality in this particular color (sand suede) may be its potential downfall as its color, which will make your feet pop against dark jeans, leaves you vulnerable to dirt. You will only gain a nod of respect if you keep your boots clean. Suede is labor intensive but if cared for properly offer a unique style.

Now, some of you might be noticing that a lot of these boots are expensive. Yes, I agree, but understand that buying a pair of boots that are of high quality and style last a long time and I think you will notice that its quality, style, compliments and confidence it provides you, just as any piece of stylish clothing does, will more than compensate for the extra hundred dollars you spend. I’m sure everyone knows this but I will state it for redundancy: It is important to care for your boots to ensure a lasting wear. There’s no bigger crime than spending a lot of money on an item and seeing it deteriorate due to lack of care. The same goes with all clothing. With boots you will want to apply a leather/suede protecting sealent to maintain appearance as long as possible (example here). If the boots are suede purchase a suede cleaning brush to maintain the integrity to your boots (example here). Having the right clothing is a great way to stand apart displaying that you are mature enough to care for yourself, but if you don’t care for your clothing it is all for not as it is an extension of how you maintain yourself and will diminish your image. If you’re going as far as to get nice clothing you might as well go the distance. Get the clothes, maintain the clothes, gain the respect.