12 Best Brands for Menswear Basics
As somebody who literally scours the Internet for the very best menswear out there for a living, I've seen it all. And over the years, I've come to know a few brands as the trusty, reliable ones, the ones I can always turn to for basics that are infallibly chic, enduringly cool, and infinitely high-quality.
Really, having solid basics is the foundation of having a great wardrobe. I don't just mean "get a white tee that fits you well" (although you should have that)—I mean you should reach for brands that are producing garments you can wear and pair with anything, that are offering plenty of bang for your buck. As a style editor, the 12 brands below are the most reliable ones that I consistently turn to for menswear basics.
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Whether you need a great pair of jeans, some loungewear and performance gear, or versatile styles you can dress up and down throughout the week, the brands below have got you covered.
J.Crew
When it comes to chic, simple basics that expertly toe the line between casual and sophisticated, nobody is doing it like J.Crew. From expertly tailored blazers to some of the hottest pants on the market to clean, crisp button-downs, the retailer excels in easy, breezy basics that'll have you looking fresh off of a Hamptons yacht. When you reach for anything J.Crew in your closet, you won't have to think twice about it.
Baird McNutt Irish Linen Shirt
Ludlow Slim-Fit Unstructured Suit Jacket
Uniqlo
We've waxed poetic about Uniqlo before, and we'll gladly do it again. The Japanese retailer is all about damn good basics for a damn good price. Everything from puffer jackets to linen shorts to blazers are available here, and they're all durable, contemporary, and cool.
Supima Cotton Crew Neck T-Shirt
Premium Linen Long-Sleeve Shirt
Ultra Stretch DRY-EX Shorts (5")
Todd Snyder
Todd Snyder is all about basics (and some statements) for the modern man. Designer Todd Snyder (formerly of J.Crew fame) founded the eponymous label in 2011, and for over a decade, it's been taking the lead on handsome, refined staple pieces.
Long-Sleeve Knit Seersucker Polo
Slim Fit Lightweight Japanese Selvedge
Flint and Tinder
If you're the kind of guy who, when getting dressed, thinks How do I evoke that down-to-earth hotness that Pedro Pascal has?, then Flint and Tinder is for you. Exclusive to Huckberry, the brand is all about garments that can handle a bit of wear and tear, but don't skimp on style, either.
Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket
The American-Made Heritage Mill Pant
Western Chambray Short Sleeve Shirt
Buck Mason
For American classics straight out of California, turn to Buck Mason. Whether you want a heavyweight tee or a soft, knit henley, the brand adheres to a commitment of quality craftsmanship that you'll feel in every single piece.
Breeze Cotton Linen S/S Camp Shirt
Cos
For basics that are built to last and look good doing it, a healthy dose of Cos will do the trick. The brand excels in timeless staples with a bit of a European flair; a wide leg here, an asymmetric hem there. Anytime you want a minimalist garment that you can wear, rewear, and then wear again in a totally different way, this should be your very first stop.
Everlane
With a commitment to crafting its garments ethically, Everlane is the brand that does good and looks good. Jeans, chinos, polos, and pretty much anything else your heart desires can be sourced here, all with a cool, contemporary vibe.
Wrangler
Whether you're in your cowboy era or not, Wrangler should absolutely be on your radar. For sturdy denim that makes you look reaaaally good, you know what to do.
Wrangler Cowboy Cut Stretch Slim Fit Jeans
Wrangler Retro Slim Fit Straight Leg Jean
Wrangler Classic 5-Pocket Regular Fit Cotton Jean
Levi's
And while we're on the topic of denim, I'd be remiss not to include the icon that is Levi's. American jeans (and jean jackets, and tees, and more!) at their finest live here, so if you want that classic, cool, James Dean vibe, shop here.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Few things say "chic" like that iconic little Ralph teddy bear does. Or even the Polo horse, for that matter. If you want the basics in your wardrobe to always be elevated, stock up on PRL's polos, button-downs, chinos, and accessories.
Classic Fit Polo Bear Mesh Polo Shirt
Alex Mill
Twelve years ago, the founders of Alex Mill embarked on a mission to create the perfect shirt. They not only succeeded, but expanded. Now, Alex Mill has fresh, contemporary basics that include everything from summery striped T-shirts to retro swim trunks.
Reigning Champ
If you want to dress down (but not too down), Reigning Champ offers up a dope selection of laid-back loungewear and sleek sportswear. From sweats and hoodies to performance shorts and tank tops, this is how to look good even when you're just going to the gym.
4-Way Stretch Nylon Training Short
Stretch Warp Knit Coach's Pant
This story originally appeared on Esquire.com. Minor edits have been made by the Esquiremag.ph editors.
