Men’s Wardrobe Essentials: 50 Items Every Guy Should Own in 2022
Men’s Wardrobe Essentials: 50 Items Every Guy Should Own in 2022
Start 2022 off right by freshening up your wardrobe-essentials. These 50 wardrobe staples will give you the foundation you need to look your best all year long. Whether you’re headed to the office, the bar, or your best friend’s wedding, these wardrobe staples will be there to help you create effortlessly stylish outfits every day.
1. Denim Shirt
A denim button-down shirt offers a cooler alternative to a crisp white Oxford. If you’re picking up your first denim shirt, go for a clean design made of high-quality denim that will only look better with time and natural distressing.
2. Classic Loafer
A classic pair of loafers in a neutral color will make you look put together in a snap. Dress them up or dress them down, then head out the door.
3. Sweats
Investing in a high-quality pair of sweatpants or joggers can make a world of difference. Choosing a new pair in a bright color can also give you a mood boost on those days spent at home.
4. Cotton Pants
A slim-fit pair of cotton pants is a workhorse piece you simply need in your wardrobe.
5. Versatile White Tanks
Adding a set of white tanks to your line-up is a no-brainer. Whether you want to wear them alone or layer up, fresh white tanks are a versatile essential you always want in your closet.
6. Anytime Sneakers
A pair of classic white sneakers will take you where you need to go in style. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to everyday kicks, but you can never go wrong with a classic from Adidas or Converse.
7. Stand-Out Track Pants
Get into one of the most fun trends of 2022 and pick up an eye-catching pair of track pants. Go printed, striped, bright, or all three. Find a pair that speaks to you and wear them with pride.
8. Oversized T-Shirt
A boxy, oversized t-shirt is a key item you need for those days when you want to curl up and lounge hard at home.
9. Pinstripe Sport Coat
Sport coats are transformative pieces that add tons of style to an outfit. If you’re hunting for a new sports coat this season, consider a pinstripe piece with throwback appeal.
10. Stylish Sneaker
A stylish sneaker is a must for streetwear enthusiasts and sneakerheads alike. Not sure which sneaker to sport this year? The Salomon XT-6 sneaker is an enduring favorite that both performs well and looks incredible.
11. A Well-Fitted Suit
No man’s wardrobe would be complete without a great suit. The key here is to make sure your suit is perfectly tailored. Expensive suits look cheap when they’re ill-fitted, while affordable suits can look like a million bucks if they fit you like a glove. Invest in a visit to the tailor. You won’t regret it.
12. Chore Jacket
A chore coat is inherently utilitarian, yet still clean-cut and fashionable. You just can’t go wrong with this practical, masculine style.
13. Feel Great Shirt
Every man needs a shirt that makes him feel like the hottest version of himself. Whatever that means for you–tight, tailored, sheer–make sure you’ve got something that fits the bill in your closet.
14. Fleece Zip Up
Warm and comfortable, a fleece zip-up is vital to have for chilly, dreary days. Choose a fuzzy fleece for a little extra style or go for a classic fleece if you prefer timeless staples.
15. Go-Anywhere Watch
A classic watch will help you get where you’re going on time– and make sure you look good doing it. If you aren’t ready to invest in a Rolex or Omega model, consider picking up an affordable alternative like the Seiko 5 or the Citizen Promaster.
16. Twill Chinos
Twill chinos are the business casual dad pants you need in rotation for 2022.
17. Signature Jewelry
Add polish and style to your casual wear by adopting a signature piece of jewelry. If you’re new to jewelry, signet rings and gold chains are both good places to start.
18. Open Collar Button-Up
Keep things relaxed with an open collar button-up featuring a cool pattern or print.
19. White Oxford Shirt
A white oxford shirt will ensure you look fantastic no matter where you’re headed. Whether you’re off to work or headed out on a date, an oxford is a reliably sharp option you need in your wardrobe.
20. Versatile Trousers
Step up your casual style with a pair of versatile trousers that are dressy enough for special occasions, yet comfortable and understated enough to go wherever your day takes you.
21. High-Quality Jeans
Every man needs a well-made pair of jeans that fits like a glove and looks good with everything.
22. The New Leather Jacket
This year we’ve seen the rise of a new leather jacket, one that’s less of a bomber jacket and more of an oversized blazer that offers a Matrix-esque edge.
23. Graphic T-Shirt
A long-sleeve graphic t-shirt is a casual outfit staple that never goes out of style.
24. Statement Socks
A pair of statement socks in a saturated color offers an easy way to add more visual interest to your daily attire.
25. Chunky Mules
Amp up any look by slipping on an on-trend pair of chunky mules or clogs.
26. Parka
This winter weather essential will keep you warm and make you look sharp if you choose a piece in a neutral tone that goes with everything you own.
27. Perfect White T-Shirt
A great white t-shirt is a layering basic that also looks amazing on its own. If you don’t already have a favorite white tee, spend some time trying on a few new fabrics and fits until you find the one.
28. Stylish Shades
An on-trend pair of sunglasses can take your outfits from blah to super stylish in an instant.
29. Sweater Vest
The ‘90s are alive in 2022. One of our favorite returning menswear trends from the era is the sweater vest, a versatile option to have on hand for your smart-casual and business attire.
30. Rugby Shirt
The rugby shirt is the polo shirt’s older, cooler brother. A rugby shirt in a heavyweight fabric is a must-have piece that will help you look effortlessly stylish all year long.
31. Silk Knit Tie
Having a silk knit tie at your disposal can step up your collared shirt game. Go with a silk knit tie in a neutral color for a can’t-fail option with maximum versatility.
32. Flannel Shirt
Rugged, practical, and easy-to-layer, a flannel shirt will serve you well no matter the season.
33. Puffy Slippers
Take your slipper experience to another level this year with a pair of puffy slippers in a vibrant hue that will add sunshine to days spent indoors.
34. Striped Button-Up
Sometimes, you want to have fun with fashion. Other times, you just want to look great with as little effort as possible. For the latter, make sure you always have a striped dress shirt on hand.
35. Hip Turtleneck
Look dressy without looking fussy by donning a unique turtleneck in a striking color.
36. Classic Corduroy Pants
Classic corduroy pants are a cold-weather staple that is a step up from jeans without looking too formal.
37. Quality Belt
A high-quality leather belt is a practical accessory that looks even better as it ages.
38. Cowboy Boots
Put your Chelsea boots to the side and try out cowboy boots for 2022. They’re fun, stylish, and just what you need whether you’re hitting the dance floor or heading out for a stroll around town.
39. Slouchy Topcoat
Topcoats are always a smart choice in the winter. For the most up-to-date topcoat silhouette, go for a slouchier style that offers effortless sophistication.
40. Neutral Hoodie
A hoodie in a neutral color will be your cozy companion while you’re lounging around the house or running errands around your neighborhood.
41. Skincare
If you don’t already have a skincare routine, now’s the time to put one in place. It doesn’t need to be anything complicated— you just want a routine that helps you look clean, fresh, and your best.
42. Knit Crew Neck Sweater
Pair a knit crew neck sweater with jeans, chinos, or slacks and experience instant outfit elevation.
43. Lace-Ups
Having a shoe that’s not as upscale as dress shoes but not as casual as boots will add versatility to your wardrobe. Lace-up oxfords are an ideal option that will stand up to years of heavy wear.
44. Business Tote
Briefcases are out and business totes are in. This more relaxed option will serve you well as you head to meetings, the office, or your favorite neighborhood coffee shop.
45. Suede Chukka Boots
Suede chukka boots look great with casual, smart casual, and business casual looks, making them the perfect finishing touch to almost any ensemble.
46. Underwear 
A list of the best men’s wardrobe essentials would not be complete without a great base. Underwear that fits well feels good, and looks good under clothes is a crucial foundation every man needs. When’s the last time you restocked your boxer briefs? If your underwear drawer is looking worse for wear, now’s the time to freshen things up.
47. Nautical Striped Shirts
Always a menswear staple, nautical striped shirts are particularly popular this year. The top trend for 2022 is colored nautical, but classic white and navy blue stripes are also making waves.
48. Classic Overshirt
A high-quality overshirt in a neutral color is a hero piece you’ll use endlessly in the colder months. If you don’t have a go-to overshirt, picking up one in black or navy is a smart move.
49. Beanie
Keep warm and look cool by having a basic beanie on deck. For maximum versatility, choose a beanie in a neutral color with minimal to no branding.
50. Cardigan
Knits like cashmere cardigans are an oft-overlooked men’s wardrobe essential that shouldn’t be neglected. They’re not only incredibly comfortable but also inherently stylish. If you don’t already have a high-quality cardigan, it’s time to finally take the plunge.
