I never thought I’d be writing about men’s fashion here on With Love From Kat – but here I am!  I shared the pieces I bought for a wardrobe makeover on Instastory. So many of you messaged me asking for more details I thought I’d dedicate an entire post to it!  I approached shopping for Derek the same way I approach shopping for myself or any friend or family member.  I always start with the basics!  First I look and see if someone has quality basics in neutral colors. So think great fitting t shirts, button downs, slim fitting pants, a nice trench, a brown leather belt, etc. Then I go from there.

I get my inspiration for fashion in general by simply observing chic people I see out and about, flipping through magazines, looking at store windows, and street style photos on Pinterest. Honestly I would say that my #1 men’s style icon is definitely Johannes Huebl (Olivia Palermo’s husband). He’s got that euro chic sophistication down pat, and yet always has just a hint of “scruff” or a relaxed, roughed up element to his outfit which I LOVE.  I added a zillion photos of him and other stylish men’s outfits I’m digging to my Pinterest board “For the Boys” so be sure to check it out for style inspo!  Without further ado, here’s a round up of my top classic menswear picks!

Classic Cotton T-shirts

1 black henley, 1 white henley, 1 white v-neck, 1 black v-neck, 1 navy blue v-neck, 1 white crew neck, 1 black crew neck, 1 navy crew neck, and then I always like to add in a little color – with a periwinkle/royal blue crew neck, and a gorgeous army green crew neck.  The same applies to long sleeve as well!

Sneakers

Cool sneakers in white, black leather, and a sportier style
I just ordered these white sneakers from Banana Republic and Derek always wears these black leather sneakers which I love on him!  These Nikes are great for more active dates or to travel in.

Quality Dress Shoes

This pair of Alden dress shoes is beautifully crafted (FYI they run a bit big) and what I love about them – is they can be dressed up or down.  These are a great black loafer, and you can never go wrong with a boat shoe.

Button Downs

White (in classic, poplin, linen), Blue (classic, linen, chambray), and Plaid
I love a man in a clean white button down with the sleeves rolled up, and tucked into khakis with a braided leather belt and a pair of loafers.  Stylish and put together without being too preppy! Also J.Crew makes the best button downs in white and blue.  A chambray is a MUST in any man’s wardrobe – and looks good on anyone regardless or their style.  A nice plaid is great for a more casual weekend, brunch or to travel in.

The Five Jackets Every Man Should Have…

A denim jacket, a Barbour jacket, a black wool coat, a trench coat and an army jacket.

Luggage

A modern briefcase, a weekend duffel, and a toiletry bag
I bought Derek this Filson weekend bag for summer travels after seeing all of the well dressed men in NYC walk around with it.  The same brand makes a cool AF brief case that’s ideal for someone who doesn’t work in a super corporate job – I personally love it in the tan color. Also this toiletry bag is essential – throw some Kiehl’s products in there while you’re at it (men love this stuff.)

Suits

A black suit, a dark blue or grey suit, and a casual summer linen suit
Every guy I’ve ever dated has said that they love the way Hugo Boss suits fit them.  And I must agree.  They run on the slimmer side and require minimal tailoring.  They’re pricy, but not outrageous and worth the investment for a suit you’ll wear again and again.  J.Crew also makes nice suits – and if you and your man live in NYC – make sure to stop by their men’s speciality shops in Tribeca called; The Ludlow Shop and The Liquor Store for all of the coolest suits and casual wear.  Both spots are a bit more elevated and niche then the regular J.Crew.  And while you’re in Tribeca – pop over to The Armoury – a dreamy high end men’s suit store based out of Hong Kong – that is right across the street from The Ludlow Shop for some major fashion inspiration and maybe a fabulous houndstooth, custom jacket!

Simple Pants

Simple pants in 2 lengths; short and long, and 2 colors; tan khaki and navy. I bought this pair from J.Crew and they fit so well.

Jeans

Jeans in 3 colors; dark wash, light wash, and black. 7 For All Mankind fits really well as do Joes Jeans.  One thing with jeans is – encourage them to spend $15 on alterations to get their jeans hemmed according to their height.  This makes a world of a difference – when jeans are too long and baggy around the ankles it looks bad.

Accessories

Watches, Belts, Bracelets and Sunglasses
I love this Daniel Wellington watch (great price point), this Shinola watch, and of course you cannot go wrong with a vintage Rolex – classic.  Ray Bans in the Wayfarer style and Clubmaster style look good on everyone.  And as far as belts go – they should have a dressy black belt, a dressy brown belt, and a casual brown braided belt.  Miansai makes the “it” bracelets for men and women – I swoon every time Derek wears this one!

Sweaters

Cashmere v-neck and a chunky knit cardigan
My dad lives in these cashmere v-necks from J.Crew.  They are beautiful quality, and look great worn alone or with a white button down underneath. Also I suggest buying them in; black, navy and grey.

And last but not, least my favorite men’s stores!

J.Crew, Banana Republic, Hugo Boss (available at Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Saks), East Dane, Mr. Porter, and Rag & Bone.  If you’re in NYC – stop by Barney’s, The Liquor Store, The Ludlow Shop, The Armoury, Miansai, and Shinola.

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