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• November 4, 2009 5:30 PM
• The Goods

Men's Musts: 9 Things Every Guy Should Buy and Wear

By Molly Smith

While we love dudes who aren't afraid to sport the latest and greatest, there are a few staples that should absolutely, positively form the basis of every man's wardrobe, dandy or not. As perfect paired with of-the-moment get-ups as they are on their own, these totally timeless no-brainer pieces—from dark wash jeans to desert boots—can and should be worn again and again. Yes, it's easy for a fella to get sucked into the trends that cheap-chic factories like H&M and Topman churn out each season, but these closet classics will stick around longer than six months—and should have a place in every guy's permanent rotation.


1. The Classic Dark-Washed Jeans

There's nothing like a pair of great-fitting straight leg jeans, and dark wash never goes out of style. Truly indispensable, they can be dressed up or down, and get better with wear. Seriously, if you have a pair of jeans with any sort of kooky stitching or pocket designs, discard immediately.

Above, from left: Levi's 501 Original Jeans in Rinsed, $37 (were $46), at Levi's; A.P.C. New Standard Jeans, $155, at A.P.C.; Oak Indigo Straight Jean, $146, at Oak.

2. The Desert Boots



Though the Clarks classics have laces, pull-on versions are an easy update, and let's face it, the less work the better. Whether in universal black or broken-in beige, suede or canvas, there's a version of these to suit every guy's style.

Above, from left: Clarks Desert Boot, $95, at Clarks; Vanishing Elephant Ferris Leather Desert Boot, $264, at Blackbird; Acne Dune Boot, $489 CDN, at Gravitypope.


3. The Cashmere Pullover



Some dudes do V-necks, some don't. We'll admit, dabbling in neck "intricacies" can get you into trouble. But not with a classic cashmere crew. Whether in merino or a soft cashmere blend, it's a hard call The merino wool crewneck gets an upgrade in cashmere--a definite investment, but it'll add polish to any outfit.

Above, from left: Acne Storm Sweater, $240, available at Gargyle; A.P.C. Pullover, $280, at A.P.C..



Above, from left: Victor Glemaud Grunge Crew Sweater, $325, at Odin; J.Crew Cashmere Crewneck Sweater, $188, at J.Crew.


4. The Polished Top Coat



Top coat equals entry into grown-up land. Whether going to the opera or on a dinner date, guys really can't be wearing whatever variation of the North Face jacket they still have from their undergrad days...over a suit.

Above, from left: Topman Charcoal Duffle Coat, $160, at Topman; Patrik Ervell Overcoat, $865, at Opening Ceremony.



Above, from left: Band of Outsiders Polo Coat, $2,070, at Opening Ceremony; Freeman's Sporting Club Pea Coat, $1630, at Refinery29 Shops.


5. The Good Go-to Belt



Every outfit needs a finishing piece, and a leather belt in a neutral color is a functional accent that can be worn daily (and not necessarily to keep up your pants).

Above, from left: UO Solid Leather Belt, $19, at Urban Outfitters; Topman Tan Leather Plaited Belt, $40, at Topman; Tanner Standard Belt with Black Hardware, $87, at Blackbird.


6. Versatile Sport Coat



Part-time blazer, sometimes overcoat, always useful. Tweed is a homespun, English novelist-style variation of black, navy, or charcoal. And you don't have to be a nerd to wear it.

Above, from left: Marc by Marc Jacobs Wool Flannel Blazer, $394, at Ssense; Billy Reid Henry Patch Pocket in Brown Plaid, $625, at Billy Reid.



Above, from left: Nom de Guerre Woolen Blazer, $725, at Inventory; Shades of Greige Two Button Blazer, $198, at Ssense.


7. Plaid Shirt With the Perfect Fit



Perfectly-cut plaid shirts (like Steven Alan's) often come in letter-sizes--how many of us are actually "medium-sized," anyway? Don't fear the tailor.

Above, from left: Gitman Brothers Tartan Button Up, $175, at Acrimony; Woolrich Cotton Plain Upland Button Down, $185, at Bird.



Above, from left: Steven Alan Reverse Seam Shirt, $168, at Steven Alan; J.Crew Secret Wash Button-Down Shirt, $59.50, at J.Crew.


8. A Classic Watch



You probably wish your grand-dad passed down his love-worn Patek Philippe, but most of you guys out there won't be so lucky. For reality's sake, every guy should score himself a refined-yet-rugged military-style watch, ideal for every day and just as stylish for night.

Above, from left: G-SAR Dive Watch, $700, at County Comm; Simon Carter WT 1600 Watch, $175, at Blackbird; M&Co 5 O'Clock Watch, $95, at the MoMA Store.


9. Tailored Khakis



Definitely not your dad's pleated pants (unless he's Johnny Depp), great-fitting khakis are a bare-bones essential, be they cuffed on the beach or tucked into some worn-in motorcycle boots.

Above, from left: Corpus Sailor Pants, $75 (were $189), at Gargyle; Chimala West Point Chino Officer's Pants, $325, at Bird; Ralph Lauren G.I. Flat Front Fine Chino, $98, at Ralph Lauren.