1 | The Blazer
A great fitting blazer is a necessary part of the modern man's wardrobe. It's incredibly versatile in both casual and semi-formal settings. A blazer works well paired with khakis or jeans, or dressed up with a pair of dark slacks. It can be worn over a dark crewneck t-shirt for a European look, or over a classic button-down oxford shirt (no tie necessary). In terms of cut, fabric and color, there are a million variations on this staple piece. Go for a neutral color for maximum versatility in black, grey or navy. Fabrics range, but 100 percent wool options (or wool blends) tend to be all-season appropriate, keeping one warm and well-dressed throughout winter, spring, summer and fall.
Where to buy? The Attic, 172 W. Main St., Kutztown, 610.894.9544. atticclothes.com
2 | White Oxford Shirt
A tailored white oxford (read: button-down shirt) is an absolute requirement for any man's wardrobe. Worn with jeans and nice shoes, it's an obvious go-to outfit of the simplest variety. The key is to find one that works for you and then stock up by buying multiples. Typically cotton is the go-to fabric choice, although every man will have a differing preference on the thickness of the material. Ideally, it should be thick enough so that you can choose whether to wear or not wear an undershirt. Shop around for a fit that feels right (Paul Fredrick has myriad options for all shapes and sizes). Once a white oxford begins to yellow, it's important to donate and stock up on a few more.
Where to buy? Paul Fredrick, Fleetwood, order online at paulfredrick.com
3 | Ray Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses
A good pair of sunglasses can make an outfit for a guy. Classic silhouettes like the Ray Ban Wayfarer look great on almost everyone. They also protect your eyes from the sun year-round, keeping wrinkles at bay for years to come. Though pricey (they run about $100), investing in a pair will bring no regrets. Try on versions in neutral colors, like black or tortoiseshell. For those looking to make a statement, Ray Ban makes versions in bright red too!
Where to buy? Cabela’s, 100 Cabela Drive, Hamburg, 610.929.7000. cabelas.com
4 | Classic Crewneck T-shirts
Though it seems simple, stocking up on classic crewneck t-shirts (read: rounded collar) is a must for men. Having basic cotton tees in standard colors is imperative for layering. Ditch the graphic tees and make sure the closet is stocked with simple black, white and navy versions of this staple. All other colors add optionality, like heather grey, berry, olive, etc. Look for fits that aren’t too boxy but have a standard, straight cut. Once the basic colors have been acquired, experiment with nautical stripes, a French variation on this basic staple.
5 | Dark Jeans
Jeans abound in retailers nationwide, but somehow the perfect pair always feels elusive. The key to the perfect jean for men? Here's the list of requirements: dark in color, unembellished and straight-legged. If a closet is packed with light jeans, ripped jeans, pockets with designs, or cuts that look less than pencil straight, go forth and find this staple jean for your denim collection.
Where to buy? Nauval Jeans from Mixx Boutique, 637 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.2249. mixxboutique.com
6 | Solid Crewneck Sweatshirt
Sweatshirts may remind many of the hooded, graphic-printed variety of youth. In fact, grown up sweatshirts exist for casual weekends and can be worn with dark jeans and classic sneakers in a sophisticated way. Look for basic crewneck sweatshirts with no logos or graphics printed on the front. Opt for soft cotton versions in colors like navy blue, tomato red and heather grey. These will be the most versatile and provide some warmth on cool summer nights or less-than-sunny spring days. Vintage options with lots of character can be fun to find in local consignment shops, while big retailers like Gap, Old Navy and Urban Outfitters churn out affordable options every season.
Where to buy? The Attic
7 | Grown-up Watch
With few opportunities to accessorize, men should take advantage of the watch as a statement piece. Invest in a grown-up watch that represents your style and can go with you anywhere. Tag Heuer makes amazing options (like the Formula One Grande Date) that can venture well below sea level or look epic in less adventurous places, like the board room or the neighbor’s housewarming party. Shop around for new and used options at fine jewelry stores throughout the county, including J.A. Meyer’s Fine Jewelry, where we found this brushed steel beauty with a black dial and red hot detailing.
Where to buy? J.A. Meyer Fine Jewelry, 156 W. Main St., Kutztown, 610.683.5920. jameyerjewelry.com
8 | Classic Sneakers
Sneaker options abound in stores everywhere. But you can’t go wrong by choosing a classic white plimsole style from tried and true brands like Adidas and Vans. While hard to keep clean, these sneakers are more appropriate with khakis and a blazer than your typical Nike running shoe would be. Invest in a pair to wear with the white oxford, jeans and wayfarer sunglasses for maximum cool in spring and summer. Add a sweater or blazer for cooler seasons.
Where to buy? The Archive
9 | Cashmere Sweater
A cashmere sweater in a neutral hue is the epitome of luxury. A mature wardrobe staple and a definite upgrade from the standard wool sweater (cashmere is much softer and usually pills less), cashmere is a great investment. Look for classic silhouettes in basic colors like black, grey and navy to maximize versatility. When buying cashmere think of it as an investment; seek classic shapes with a comfortable fit. Make sure an oxford shirt can be worn beneath it so the investment piece can be worn in winter or summer. If you’re new to cashmere, seeking out vintage options at consignment shops can be an affordable way to start adding these pieces to a wardrobe.
Where to buy? The Attic
10 | Khakis
A pair of well-fitting khakis adds a casual jean alternative to any wardrobe. A bit dressier than the standard dark denim, khakis are great with a white oxford and white sneakers, or can be dressed up with a blazer and brown leather shoes. Look for silhouettes with a straight, modern fit. Make sure to tailor them so the ends don’t graze the ground, or for a quick fix roll the bottoms to show a bit of ankle.
Where to buy? The Attic or shop local Reading, PA-based khaki design firm Bills Khakis online at billskhakis.com
1 | The Blazer
A great fitting blazer is a necessary part of the modern man's wardrobe. It's incredibly versatile in both casual and semi-formal settings. A blazer works well paired with khakis or jeans, or dressed up with a pair of dark slacks. It can be worn over a dark crewneck t-shirt for a European look, or over a classic button-down oxford shirt (no tie necessary). In terms of cut, fabric and color, there are a million variations on this staple piece. Go for a neutral color for maximum versatility in black, grey or navy. Fabrics range, but 100 percent wool options (or wool blends) tend to be all-season appropriate, keeping one warm and well-dressed throughout winter, spring, summer and fall.
Where to buy? The Attic, 172 W. Main St., Kutztown, 610.894.9544. atticclothes.com
2 | White Oxford Shirt
A tailored white oxford (read: button-down shirt) is an absolute requirement for any man's wardrobe. Worn with jeans and nice shoes, it's an obvious go-to outfit of the simplest variety. The key is to find one that works for you and then stock up by buying multiples. Typically cotton is the go-to fabric choice, although every man will have a differing preference on the thickness of the material. Ideally, it should be thick enough so that you can choose whether to wear or not wear an undershirt. Shop around for a fit that feels right (Paul Fredrick has myriad options for all shapes and sizes). Once a white oxford begins to yellow, it's important to donate and stock up on a few more.
Where to buy? Paul Fredrick, Fleetwood, order online at paulfredrick.com
3 | Ray Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses
A good pair of sunglasses can make an outfit for a guy. Classic silhouettes like the Ray Ban Wayfarer look great on almost everyone. They also protect your eyes from the sun year-round, keeping wrinkles at bay for years to come. Though pricey (they run about $100), investing in a pair will bring no regrets. Try on versions in neutral colors, like black or tortoiseshell. For those looking to make a statement, Ray Ban makes versions in bright red too!
Where to buy? Cabela’s, 100 Cabela Drive, Hamburg, 610.929.7000. cabelas.com
4 | Classic Crewneck T-shirts
Though it seems simple, stocking up on classic crewneck t-shirts (read: rounded collar) is a must for men. Having basic cotton tees in standard colors is imperative for layering. Ditch the graphic tees and make sure the closet is stocked with simple black, white and navy versions of this staple. All other colors add optionality, like heather grey, berry, olive, etc. Look for fits that aren’t too boxy but have a standard, straight cut. Once the basic colors have been acquired, experiment with nautical stripes, a French variation on this basic staple.
5 | Dark Jeans
Jeans abound in retailers nationwide, but somehow the perfect pair always feels elusive. The key to the perfect jean for men? Here's the list of requirements: dark in color, unembellished and straight-legged. If a closet is packed with light jeans, ripped jeans, pockets with designs, or cuts that look less than pencil straight, go forth and find this staple jean for your denim collection.
Where to buy? Nauval Jeans from Mixx Boutique, 637 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.2249. mixxboutique.com
6 | Solid Crewneck Sweatshirt
Sweatshirts may remind many of the hooded, graphic-printed variety of youth. In fact, grown up sweatshirts exist for casual weekends and can be worn with dark jeans and classic sneakers in a sophisticated way. Look for basic crewneck sweatshirts with no logos or graphics printed on the front. Opt for soft cotton versions in colors like navy blue, tomato red and heather grey. These will be the most versatile and provide some warmth on cool summer nights or less-than-sunny spring days. Vintage options with lots of character can be fun to find in local consignment shops, while big retailers like Gap, Old Navy and Urban Outfitters churn out affordable options every season.
Where to buy? The Attic
7 | Grown-up Watch
With few opportunities to accessorize, men should take advantage of the watch as a statement piece. Invest in a grown-up watch that represents your style and can go with you anywhere. Tag Heuer makes amazing options (like the Formula One Grande Date) that can venture well below sea level or look epic in less adventurous places, like the board room or the neighbor’s housewarming party. Shop around for new and used options at fine jewelry stores throughout the county, including J.A. Meyer’s Fine Jewelry, where we found this brushed steel beauty with a black dial and red hot detailing.
Where to buy? J.A. Meyer Fine Jewelry, 156 W. Main St., Kutztown, 610.683.5920. jameyerjewelry.com
8 | Classic Sneakers
Sneaker options abound in stores everywhere. But you can’t go wrong by choosing a classic white plimsole style from tried and true brands like Adidas and Vans. While hard to keep clean, these sneakers are more appropriate with khakis and a blazer than your typical Nike running shoe would be. Invest in a pair to wear with the white oxford, jeans and wayfarer sunglasses for maximum cool in spring and summer. Add a sweater or blazer for cooler seasons.
Where to buy? The Archive
9 | Cashmere Sweater
A cashmere sweater in a neutral hue is the epitome of luxury. A mature wardrobe staple and a definite upgrade from the standard wool sweater (cashmere is much softer and usually pills less), cashmere is a great investment. Look for classic silhouettes in basic colors like black, grey and navy to maximize versatility. When buying cashmere think of it as an investment; seek classic shapes with a comfortable fit. Make sure an oxford shirt can be worn beneath it so the investment piece can be worn in winter or summer. If you’re new to cashmere, seeking out vintage options at consignment shops can be an affordable way to start adding these pieces to a wardrobe.
Where to buy? The Attic
10 | Khakis
A pair of well-fitting khakis adds a casual jean alternative to any wardrobe. A bit dressier than the standard dark denim, khakis are great with a white oxford and white sneakers, or can be dressed up with a blazer and brown leather shoes. Look for silhouettes with a straight, modern fit. Make sure to tailor them so the ends don’t graze the ground, or for a quick fix roll the bottoms to show a bit of ankle.
Where to buy? The Attic or shop local Reading, PA-based khaki design firm Bills Khakis online at billskhakis.com
By Lily Oswald | Photos by Mark Nester
