Top 10 List for the Well Dressed Man

So let us shift gears, shall we? I spend soooo much time talking and teaching about fitness and nutrition that one would never know that I have an affection for men's fashion. I actually consider it a hobby. My clients are always shocked to find that out, because they only ever see me wearing sweats and other workout attire. However, when I'm not at the gym, I like to play dress-up. And I'd like to think that I'm pretty good at it. But some of you fellas...well...a lot of you fellas are not. No worries! I'm here to help.

I decided to compile a list of wardrobe must-haves for the gentleman who is need of jumpstarting his closet (or starting over from scratch for some you). Think of it as a top 10 list, if you will, of clothes your closet must contain at all times. Without further delay...

1. Suits. This is a somewhat of a "top 10" list within itself! First and foremost, pick up THE two essential 2-button suits, navy and dark grey. They're the most versatile, as they can be worn with either black or brown shoes and belts. Build from there with a navy or black pinstripe or a check patterned piece. A light grey suit is great for the spring and summer seasons. Don't forget that the jackets can also be coupled with jeans for a great dressed-down look.

2. Dress Shirts. A wise man (my father) once told me that a man can never have enough white dress shirts. Gotta listen to "Pops" on this one. A handful of white and pale blue shirts will go a long way. Try to get different textures and collar styles to add variety. Also, get a couple with French cuffs for added formality and elegance.

3. Ties. A great tie can make your suit. A bad tie can and WILL break your suit. Go for simple colors with simple and subtle designs and patterns. Leave the goofy cartoon characters that douchebag, Bob in accounting. And learn to tie a variety of knots to coincide with the width of the shirts' collars.

4. Jeans. So many fits, so many styles, so many brands... I believe in variety, but let's simplify it. Start with one or two pairs of straight-leg dark denims. After that, you can wear all of the studs, big logos, and rhinestones you want to. But keep a simple pair or two for when you want to be taken seriously.

5. Dress Shoes. You'd be surprised at how many woman initially judge a man based on his shoes. Essentially, you need two pair: brown and black cap toe or wingtip Oxford style shoes. Keep the soles low profile. Dress shoes aren't made for playing kickball in, so they shouldn't look like it. And yes, your belt should always match your shoes. Always.

6. Dress Socks. Your socks should match your pants. Save yourself the embarrassment and do NOT wear white athletic socks with slacks and/or dress shoes please.

7. Pocket Square. There can be some confusion as to how to wear them. Follow this simple rule and you can do no wrong: NEVER match your pocket square to your tie in pattern or texture! Stay away from the matching tie and pocket square sets. You'll look like a low-budget Steve Harvey. Start with a set of basic white and then build up to different colors, patterns, and textures.

8. Wristwatch. Try to have one for every style of outfit you'll wear. That doesn't mean to go out and buy a trashbag full of different watches. I only own three watches. One for when I'm dressed up. One for when I'm dressed down. And one for when I'm in athletic attire. Get the point? Keep in mind, you're not Jay-Z. So your watches don't need to look like his.

9. Sweater. Go for a subtle slim fit, just like your dress shirts. You can do no harm with a couple of cashmere v-necks.

10. Overcoat. Because why let the rain screw up your shiny new suits? A dark grey or navy car coat or pea coat should suffice. Best of all, they can be dressed up or down with ease.

Honorable Mention:

Fitted Polo Shirts. Classic. Versatile. Probably should've been on the list.

Leather Jacket. Because it's just f'n' cool.

Tuxedo. Because renting is for high school prom-goers. Which reminds me... If you don't already, learn how to tie a bowtie.

There's your list of must-haves, gentlemen. Sometimes a first impression is all you'll have. Why cock that up with crappy attire? So you might as well look your best. Besides, when you look good, you feel good. Can't beat that. Happy shopping!

Now, what are you going to do?

CAS