Do you struggle in the morning deciding what to wear? Well then, this column’s for you. The key is to limit your choice by concentrating on hard-working classics. Think quality over quantity and stick with colours and shapes that flatter you most.
Comfort is also important, as you’ll be wearing these items often, so shy away from anything too restrictive or fussy. Keep care instructions and fabric choices top of mind, too: items worn close to the body should be machine washable for ease and functionality, and outerwear should be robust enough to wear multiple times before they’re dry-cleaned.
The well-cut basics: Maggie Marilyn Somewhere 01 singlet in bone, $75
Not all basics are created equal. You’ll be surprised how much airtime these humble outfit foundations will have, so it’s worth investing in cuts and colours that best suit your shape and skin tone. The Maggie Marilyn Somewhere collection is a great place to start for a selection of chic cotton and merino tanks, tees and turtlenecks at reasonable prices. Shop
The knit dress: Wynn Hamlyn asymmetric ribbed knit dress, $525
This form-fitting beauty from Wynn Hamlyn offers the perfect foundation for an oversized blazer or thick white shirt worn open. It’s equally impactful worn alone with your favourite party heels – keep the accessories to a minimum and let the asymmetric neckline do the talking. Shop
The white shirt: Kowtow playground shirt, $269
One of the most versatile items you can own, a white button-down shirt pairs effortlessly with most pieces in your closet. Look for quality cotton and a collar with integrity when selecting the right shirt for you. Shop
Loose-fit trousers: Liam Benten Pant, $269
This wide-leg trouser silhouette is universally flattering, so it’s no surprise this shape is included in Liam’s newly launched Everything collection, which wonderfully caters to sizes 4-24. These trousers are great in the boardroom with a blazer, but equally as dynamic dressed down with sneakers and a white tee shirt. Shop
The soft trench: Joseph Cadance trench, $1545 from Net-a-porter
There is a reason the humble trench coat has been en vogue for a century. Lightweight, versatile and classic, it’s an item you’ll have in your wardrobe forever, so invest in quality. I’m partial to minimalist cuts when choosing a trench as I find this style can be elevated for the evening when need be. Shop
The boxy short-sleeve shirt: Sunspel short-sleeve shirt, $265 from Mr Porter
You’ll notice this 1960s-inspired shape everywhere this summer. It is widely cut through the body, with a just-above-elbow-length sleeve. Forget that 1990s bowling-shirt look; this time around, the style is hemmed on the beltline, which looks more polished and pulled together. Shop
The classic sunglasses: Moscot Lemtosh in blonde, $520 from Black Box Boutique
A great pair of glasses is the definitive touch that completes a man’s wardrobe and rounds off his personal style. Choose classic and good quality over anything too trendy, to aid longevity. Think Moscot, Persol or Ray-Ban in neutral tones. Shop
The leather loafers: Crane Brothers polished calf leather loafers, $595
Fashion trends have leant towards the chunky lug-sole loafers of late, but that doesn’t mean we should overlook the debonair original. Team with a white shirt and great leather belt for a well-groomed multipurpose ensemble. Shop
The chore coat: Marané button-down linen jacket, $300 from Matchesfashion
The style referred to as bleu de travail first appeared in late 19th-century France, created with physical work in mind and cut from heavy drills or moleskin. Today, you’ll find this shape is a fashion staple, with a myriad of fabrics, colours and finishes to choose from. A chore coat makes for wonderful trans-seasonal outerwear, and I prefer the more-minimal takes on this style, such as this lightweight number from Marané at matchesfashion.com. Shop
The grown-up overnight bag: R.M. Williams Saddler duffle bag, $895
Give travel a spruce-up and add a well-crafted leather carryall to your shopping list. It is a sophisticated accompaniment for overnight travel and will develop character with every journey as the calf leather softens over time. The Saddler duffle bag features twin zips with expanding gussets for extra room when needed – great for those who are partial to a holiday purchase. Shop
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