5 essential fashion items for men and how to style them

By Nkwazi Magazine • March 4, 2020

Fashion is a fickle thing. Seasons change and what’s in one day is out the next. Fashion trends therefore come and go but the list of basic essentials that should constitute the wardrobe of every stylish man is not particularly long. The key to dressing well is a refined, versatile wardrobe but different people have different thoughts on what fashion items should constitute a man’s closet. One major style principle remains true: keep ultra-trendy items to a minimum and have mostly classic pieces that work from season to season.

Our top five pieces are not only trendy at the moment, they are versatile style staples which you’ll keep coming back to. Without further ado, let’s look at each piece in detail.

DENIM JACKETS

A good quality denim jacket, made of sturdy cotton fabric, will last you many years. The denim jacket is a firmly established style staple. Many men opt for a darker wash but switching up the shades in favor of lighter washes is officially in style. As every season comes and goes, trends are constantly evolving. The denim jacket has been through changes, from purposely oversized to distressed and embroidered. A denim jacket is an excellent option for many outfits, the garment is perfect for adding a simple yet stylish finishing touch to an array of looks.

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Choose the right fit – While loose and oversized designs are excellent for creating a relaxed appearance, fitted and cropped styles look smarter. Pair your denim jacket with jeans or chinos. Layer it up with a T-shirt or a button down shirt and some accessories and you are good to go.

OXFORDS

Oxfords are a fashion staple that add a touch of smart or smart casual to any outfit. The simple yet eye-catching and sophisticated oxford shoes have ebbed and flowed in popularity, but overall it seems that they forever remain trendy and a must have wardrobe essential. Once you have oxfords in your wardrobe, the next step is learning how to style them.

TIP – Go for jeans and a T-shirt if you want to keep things relaxed and a button down shirt and chinos if you want something with a little more class.

TRENCH COATS

The trench coat is another iconic wardrobe staple that you will find yourself wearing for years to come. It has become such a power fashion trend, in part, because of its versatility. Trench coats are suitable for many different occasions and settings. They’re sophisticated enough to be one of the few types of outerwear that look good with formal clothing. The design is also simple enough to look great with ultra-casual clothes like jeans and hoodies.

TIP – Wearing a trench coat on a date will show you’re truly making an effort to look good (yes, believe me gents).

TURTLENECKS

A turtleneck sweater is one of my favorite pieces of knitwear during winter and on cool nights during the summer. Turtlenecks have a casual elegance and sophistication about them and are incredibly versatile. Whether you are wearing a turtleneck with jeans, a suit or layered with a trench coat or a button down shirt, it will always add a touch of refinement and finesse.

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If you are just starting out and hopping on this trend then the way to go is with a minimalistic colour like black, brown or grey.

CROSSBODY BAGS

Any fashionable man knows that cross body bags have become a necessary style accessory. Bags are no longer seen as solely a woman’s item. Men’s bags are not just functional. They’re versatile, aesthetically pleasing and a necessary part of any contemporary wardrobe. Throw away the old idea that these mini or easy to wear bags are for women and get with the fashion forward times. From hobo bags, messenger bags and fanny packs, these bags are virtually becoming necessary for today’s modern man.

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