THE BEST CLOTHING BASICS

At some point working with a guy either in-person or virtually online, they'll usually ask me a question about the innerwear basics like boxers, socks, etc.

So today, we're going to knock that out. I'm going to show you the best stuff that I personally use. Only working with guys, it makes it easy to recommend this kind of stuff.

Keep in mind I have tested a LOT of stuff both on myself and seen it on clients. These recommendations are based on that.

 
 



UNDERWEAR Uniqlo Airism Boxer Briefs

If you've been following our stuff for any amount of time, you know I'm a Uniqlo fan. The quality is insane for the price. These are no exception. And it's not just me... New York Magazine listed Uniqlo in the number one and two spot for boxers as well.

Make sure you're wearing boxer briefs. They won't bunch up like regular boxers.The Airism fabric keeps things breathable and smooth.


UNDERSHIRTS Spanx Men


In full transparency, I hardly ever wear undershirts. I find them unnecessary. However, when needed, this is great. In some situations, guys will come to find that their chest becomes overly visible in certain types of fabrics. This shirt helps to solve that.

Make sure whatever undershirt you do is tight, so it doesn't bunch under your clothing and make you ever warmer. It should be like a second skin and have moisture-wicking and stretch properties to it.


SOCKS Bombas

If you're tired of your no-show socks falling down, give these a go. Bombas started by only mastering socks, and now splintering off into other innerwear categories. They're a good company with a great return policy, and they donate socks to people in need. All of that is great, but what really matters is these things perform well. All my menswear friends worth their salt recommend this brand constantly as well.

For socks, you really only need no-show socks to be worn with lower profile shoes like loafers and sneakers, and then some calf-length socks for boots and dressier shoes like an oxford or derby.


BELTS Morjas


Belts should come from a company that does leather well. If you can, I like to find a local leather goods company and see what they have to offer. They can usually whip you up something custom too for a decent price, and I've done a few wallets this way.

The other option is to buy belts from good shoe brands, as they'll also do leather well, and it makes purchasing easier. If you're a made-in-the-USA fan, explore Allen Edmond offerings.

For belts, typically size 2 number up from you waist size you take in your pants (ex. I'm a 32 waist in jeans, and I wear a 34 belt) unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer.

There you have it, chief. Well-made basics to stock your wardrobe.

Hope it helps.

x Patrick

Patrick Kenger

Patrick Kenger is an award-winning menswear stylist and the founder of PIVOT Image Consulting. For the past 10 years, he has worked to shape the personal styling industry for men, making style easy and efficient for men across the globe. You can find him regularly in the WSJ, NBC, CNN, Men’s Health, and more.

http://www.pivotimage.com
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