Every Piece of Menswear You Should Own in 2026
When it comes to getting dressed, we often rhapsodize about the virtues of “wardrobe essentials for men” as if everyone knows what we mean. So, let’s actually talk about it.
On Maslow’s hierarchy of menswear needs, wardrobe essentials might begin the perfect white tee, a killer pair of jeans, and the shoes you can wear with them. But in compiling this list, our goal wasn’t simply to meet your needs—you are, frankly, a grown-ass man, and hopefully have those covered—but more to remind you of the fundamental pieces of menswear that have helped men look hotter and feel better for generations. And in a world of non-stop trends, we need these reminders now more than ever.
In aggregate, our essentials constitute the foundation of a rock-solid men’s basic wardrobe. Below, a highly specific starter pack of everything you’ll want—nay, need—to wear in the year of our lord 2026.
The Men’s Wardrobe Essentials Hit List
Studio Nicholson x Aaron Levine Burlington Slim Fit Herringbone Wool Suit Jacket
The Plain White T-Shirt
A plain white T-shirt can be worn as an undershirt, standalone with some vintage jeans, or—if you want to get DIY—screen-printed into a work of art. Looking for an indie version no one else has? Check out our guide to the best white tees.
Gildan
Gildan Hammer Adult T-Shirt
The Upgrade Undies
Slim, abbreviated trunks or boxer briefs that keep everything in place are the foundation of every rock-solid wardrobe—whether other people can see ‘em or not. Even if you’re in the minority that’s committed to boxer shorts, it pays to spend a little more on something that’s, you know, holding your balls all day long.
Skims
3″ Boxer Brief 3-Pack
The Crewneck Sweater
We love the zany knitwear options flooding the internet these days. But if we’re honest, there will always be a spot in our closets for a classic crewneck sweater. They’re timeless and endlessly style-able, even if you only manage to drape one across your shoulders.
Banana Republic
Cashmere Crew-Neck
The Go-To Jeans
There’s a reason that the Levi’s 501s is at the very top of our guide to the best men’s jeans: it has been, is, and always will be the jeans you come back to again (and again, and again). If you dig your denim light and a little looser, though, Gap’s Loose Jeans are a close second. Can’t think of what to wear? Here’s your answer, seven days a week.
Levi’s
501 Original Fit Jeans
The Failsafe Navy Blazer
If there’s another theme here, it’s that menswear essentials shouldn’t be unitaskers. They should be useful in a variety of situations, and when it comes to tailoring in particular, the navy blazer is a Swiss Army Knife. It works in almost any situation, from job interviews (with a tie) to weddings (someone else’s or your own). Bonus points if you opt for a double-breasted number with strong shoulders, brash peak lapels, and an unmistakable sense of what Italians—and menswear guys—call sprezzatura.
Studio Nicholson x Aaron Levine
Burlington Slim Fit Herringbone Wool Suit Jacket
