The simplest things are often the hardest to get right. Anyone who’s ever searched (or is still searching) for that perfect tee or pair of chinos knows that shopping for basics can be a Goldilocks-ian affair. Neckline too high, neckline too low, fabric too thin, fabric too thick—and on and on. This is why when you finally find the one, it’s worth investing in. The hard part, though, is finding the one.
Thankfully, your friends at Matches Fashion have done the leg work for you. Launching on their website today, Wardrobe Foundations is a new category that combines plum picks of essentials from jeans and socks to blazers and bags. It’s a one-stop-shop for superlative iterations of the garments and accessories that guys rely on season after season, year after year.
We asked Matches’ head of menswear, Damien Paul, for his top picks to invest in this season. But more than just this season, these are the perennially stylish staples that well-dressed wardrobes are built on.
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Raey Linen-Blend Polo Sweater
Image Credit: Matches “This oversized, slouchy open v-neck knitted polo from Raey pulls influences from sportswear and is crafted from linen-blend piqué to give a soft, breathable handle. Made in Italy, it has a comfortable, effortless silhouette evocative of the label’s pared-back aesthetic.”
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Officine Générale ‘Armie’ Wool Fresco Suit Jacket
Image Credit: Matches “This lightweight Officine Générale jacket is perfect for spring—and flattering, as it’s tailored to the waist which elongates the leg. It’s shaped to a single-breasted profile with soft shoulders and is left unlined for a more natural frame.”
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Edward Green ‘Picadilly’ Grained Leather Loafers
Image Credit: Matches “Edward Green’s hand-crafted, grained leather loafers will look great with age. This classic penny style is hand-cut and stitched—a perfect wardrobe investment.”
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Lemaire Wool-Blend Twill Jacket
Image Credit: Matches “This Lemaire bomber with a high neck is so versatile. I love that the neck can be folded down into an open collar and the buttoned cuffs are a nod to shirting. It is perfect for spring and can be dressed up or down. The minimalist aesthetic would be chic in a tonal full look.”
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Jil Sander Elasitcated-Waist Wool Trousers
Image Credit: Matches “These Jil Sander dark navy trousers are a great example of minimalist ease—light structure and clean lines. Crafted in Italy from wool gabardine to a tapered silhouette, they have a great shape. So flattering, comfortable and timeless. Team with a roll-neck top, longline coat and boots to channel a contemporary mood.”
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Iris Von Arnim Cashmere Hooded Sweater
Image Credit: Matches “This Iris Von Arnim cashmere hooded sweater is a great layering piece. The brand’s decades of cashmere heritage is evident in this elevated yet casual hoodie.”
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Bottega Veneta Jacquard Cross-Body Bag
Image Credit: Matches “Bottega Veneta’s black cross-body bag is a modern twist on iconic intrecciato in jacquard. It’s understated, functional and will work hard in the modern man’s wardrobe.”
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The Row ‘Mickey’ Double-Breasted Cotton Coat
Image Credit: Matches “This grey cotton double-breasted coat defines The Row’s sublime tailoring. In a mid-weight cotton with structured padded shoulders, the pale grey is the perfect addition to the building blocks of the wardrobe. Sophisticated yet easy.”
