Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

22 clothing items every man should own before he turns 30

It might be time to go shopping.

Dennis Green
Wednesday 31 May 2017 10:27 EDT
Comments
22 things a man should own before he turns 30

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

When a man turns 30, he turns around and looks back at his life. But he should also turn around and look back at his wardrobe because, chances are, it's been neglected.

We've rounded up 22 of the most important essentials that every guy should have by the time he turns the big three-oh.

If you're approaching or over 30, it might be time to go shopping.


A full suit that is tailored and fits well.

Browne wears a grey suit pretty much every day
Browne wears a grey suit pretty much every day

There are no more excuses anymore. You're an adult now. You need at least one suit, preferably in navy or gray.

Really, you should have both by now. What have you been doing all this time?


A nice blazer to add some variety.

As American dress skews more informal, blazers have become more important than ever.

A nice blazer will make sure that you don't overwhelm a room with a full suit when the occasion doesn't call for it. But it can also separate you from the crowd a bit.


An expensive wristwatch for special occasions.

The Vacheron Constantin Ultra Slim
The Vacheron Constantin Ultra Slim

Even if you're not a watch guy, you should realise the importance of wearing a watch on occasion.

Drop a few hundred to have a timepiece that you can call your own.


Good leather dress shoes in black and brown.​

Quality dress shoes are always worth the investment. Make sure that you're set for the next decade by doing some research, and get some basic yet bulletproof shoes that you can wear with your suits.


A pair of chino shorts that fit.​

Though you seldom wear shorts these days, you should be prepared for the few times that you'll need them.

And we don't mean cargo shorts, either.


A quality and sturdy pair of boots.

Boots aren't just for lumberjacks anymore. They're an essential part of every man's fall and winter wardrobe.

A quality pair that can last your entire life is something that every guy should have at this stage.


A quality summer shoe.

Whether it's crisp white sneakers or a pair of trusty moccasins, you should have a signature summer shoe.


A winter coat that will actually keep you warm.

For colder climates, everyone knows that there's no substitute for a parka.


A winter coat for dressing up.​

(Joe Quigg )
(Joe Quigg ) (Joe Quigg)

A parka isn't always appropriate to wear, however, and a gentleman knows that.


A real umbrella.

Sure you can carry a collapsible around with you forever, but after 30 it starts to look a little silly.


A real duffle bag.

When you're 30, you should stop using your old college luggage and buy grown-up stuff. Because you're an adult now.


A grown-up work bag.

Because when was the last time you were jealous of a man who took a backpack to work with him?


A quality leather wallet.

If you're still using a Pac-Man wallet, then it's time to upgrade.


A belt that will last.

Instead of going through belts every year like usual, invest in an expensive one that you can wear for years.


A tuxedo.

Chris Rock hosting the 88th Academy Award clad in a white tuxedo
Chris Rock hosting the 88th Academy Award clad in a white tuxedo (Getty Images)

Never be unprepared for a black-tie wedding again.


A pair of dark denim jeans that fit like a glove.

Jeans are an important part of every man's wardrobe, and by this time, it's pretty important to have a trusted pair that you really enjoy wearing.


The perfect T-shirt.​

The perfect T-shirt is not a myth. You just have to find it.

A perfectly fitting T-shirt is something that every man should have before he leaves his 20s.


A casual jacket that you love.

It doesn't matter what style it is as long as it fits well and you absolutely love it.


A casual but interesting shirt that you've made your signature.

Maybe it's a henley. Maybe it's an Oxford cloth button-down. Maybe it's a sweatshirt.

Whatever it is, people have come to identify you by it when they see you on the weekends.


A swimsuit that you're not embarrassed to wear.

A bathing suit that is actually flattering is one of the biggest tell-tale signs that you've grown up.


A tie collection you actually like.

(AFP/Getty Images
(AFP/Getty Images (AFP/Getty Images)

Buy a few ties for yourself. When your collection isn't 100% gifts from family members, then you'll actually have some ties that you'll like to wear.


Eyewear that makes you look intelligent.

The wire-frame glasses that don't quite fit your face correctly aren't going to cut it anymore.

For help with finding the right shape for your face, check out our guide.

Read more:

• This chart is easy to interpret: It says we're screwed
• How Uber became the world's most valuable startup
• These 4 things could trigger the next crisis in Europe

Read the original article on Business Insider UK. © 2016. Follow Business Insider UK on Twitter.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in