Navigate the basic corporate wardrobe

People have often asked me, “What clothes should I buy?” and to answer this question, I realize a structured approach is needed for the response.

You are best to divide your wardrobe into two groups: Professional and Personal. They should comprise of essential items that will see you through each week in these two distinct categories. In this article I will address the Professional wardrobe and what a man needs for a standard week in a professional environment (excluding socks and underwear).

1. A navy suit

This is a key item in every man’s wardrobe. The right navy-blue suit complements every dress shirt well and for a more casual look, can be paired with loafers. The versatility of the navy suit as a 'separate' will be of use to you. This is when you wear items of said suit, separately. You can wear the suit jacket with natural/ grey/ chino coloured trousers/ chinos for a new outfit; and the trousers can be worn with a sweater instead of the jacket.

2. Charcoal grey suit

I consider a two piece charcoal grey suit, an essential item for the professional wardrobe. A three piece charcoal grey suit, will ratchet up the sophistication of your look.

As mentioned before with regard to separates, you can wear the grey trousers of your suit with the navy suit jacket, and vice versa. Mixing of your suit pieces enables versatility giving you various outfit options for your look.

3. A pair of chinos

Chinos are a suitable alternative to jeans, especially if you don’t want to wear suit trousers. Ideally, a natural colour is best as they can be worn in either your professional and personal environment. Chinos can be worn with a shirt, jacket, t-shirt, etc – there are many styling options with other wardrobe items.

Fit is imperative when selecting and wearing a pair of chinos. Select a slim fit, but not tight. You don’t want to struggle to sit or be uncomfortable in those long meetings.

4. Button down Oxford shirts

A button-down Oxford shirt complements most items. It is naturally smart in appearance due to its collar, but also has a casual feel. It can be worn under a sweater, with jeans, even slim fit chinos with a statement belt – it is the most versatile item in your wardrobe. You should have at least five all-white button-down Oxford shirts.

Aside from white, other colours to consider to add or make up your 5 shirts: light blue and pale pink. Each of these colours or print will complement both suits and your chinos.

Go to asos for a wide selection of oxford shirts.

5. A pair of Oxford style shoes

Oxford shoes will ground your professional look. Whether you are heading to a job interview or attending a business meeting, Oxford shoes are a key element to your outfit. They are a classic essential, which is simple and understated. They can be worn with a suit, but its handsome design mean it can be worn with a tuxedo.

6. Monk Strap Shoes

A monk strap shoe, or a double monk strap shoe is considered the most advanced dress shoe. A brown monk strap shoe complements your suits, smart trousers, jeans and even a casual denim jacket for the weekends. These shoes will elevate any outfit.

7. A polo shirt

For the casual Fridays in the warmer months of the year, a polo shirt is a work appropriate dressed down option. A polo shirt can be worn with a suit jacket or blazer, chinos, and as the weather cools, worn with a sweater. You can go from the office, to the movies, or drinks, it's a comfortable option for most occasions.

You might already own a polo shirt, and you likely picked a very safe white, grey or navy colour. There’s nothing wrong with safe; however, consider bold or block colours. If it feels right, those other colours will show elements of your personality and convey your style.

8. Belts

Leather belts aren't just for keeping your trousers up, but are accessories for your outfit. I have plenty of belts, although I find myself rotating the same 2 or 3 during the week. I suggest as a minimum, have 3 good Leather belts.

Your belt choice will depend on the colour of your shoes try to match to have tone consistency in your look. During your work week, consider a tan cognac colour, medium-dark brown, black or grey canvas coloured belts for your wardrobe. Each of these colours will match your suits, chinos, shirts and shoes.

9. Dark denim jeans

Suitable for casual Friday, slim fit dark denim jeans will work with any of the aforementioned items.

Working double duty for your personal wardrobe, jeans are perfect for every day casual activities. Whether its running weekend errands, meeting friends for a meal, or your partner for after-work drinks, this casual go to works for most occasions and venues.

10. A watch

A watch is a functional timepiece to keep you punctual and perhaps considered old-fashioned, but a watch is still essential to finalise almost any look. It is the interchangeable accessory of the professional and private persona. Wear a watch that works for you or your lifestyle. Often the runner, diver or triathlete will wear their smart/ sports watch with business wear. Watches can express who you are outside of the office, and so, wear it proudly.