2021 Men's Wardrobe Essentials: 20 Items You Need to Have

January 29, 2021 5 min read

2021 Men's Wardrobe Essentials

Sometimes it's hard for men to balance their wardrobe. Your closet and bureau could be full to the brim, and you may only wear a small fraction of your clothes on a regular basis. When you open your closet doors, you may have so many options that you have trouble deciding what to wear for the day. If this is you, then you're in need of a men's wardrobe essentials checklist.

What clothes do you need in your wardrobe? In a world where fashion keeps changing, here are some must-have men's clothing items in 2021. 

1. Blue Jeans

Start with one of the most essential items in any man's wardrobe — a solid pair of blue jeans. Blue jeans give you a durable pair of pants that can go with almost any shirt and pair of shoes or boots. Get yourself a timeless pair of blue jeans like Levi's® classic straight-leg style or great pair of stretch jeans from Wrangler.

2. Black Jeans

A pair of black jeans can give your denim life some variety. Black jeans offer a darker tone that can make other clothing items stand out for some contrast. Wrangler dark denim stretch jeans are a great option for comfort and style. Or buy a pair of classic black jeans from Levi's® for a tried-and-true solution for your black denim needs. 

3. Casual Khakis

Every man needs a pair of khakis for situations where jeans are a little too casual. A pair of Bill's plain khakis are perfect for when you want to show some extra effort in your appearance. Combine them with a buttondown shirt, a brown belt and some nice shoes for a classic yet comfortable look.

4. A Nice Pair of Slacks

When it's time to get a bit fancier, you'll need a pair of slacks for the occasion. Flat front pants from Dockers are some of the best slacks you can choose for this purpose. Iron them with a crease down the middle to achieve a crisp appearance. With colors like dark brown, light brown and black, you're sure to find a pair of slacks that fit your style. 

5. Shorts for Any Occasion

When it comes to shorts, look for a pair that rest just above or at your knees. Savane flat front shorts are a great option because you can wear them with any top, from t-shirts to polos. They're a great look for any warm-weather event. 

6. A Couple of T-Shirts

T-shirts are a must-have in every man's wardrobe — just stay away from graphics, and avoid buying too many. Keep it simple by purchasing one light-colored and one dark-colored short-sleeved t-shirt. Wear them on their own or under a button-down. Either way, you'll look great. You can even get a V-neck t-shirt from Robert Barakett to change things up once in a while. 

Short Sleeved Button Down Shirt

7. A Short-Sleeved Button-Down Shirt

You need a short-sleeved button-down shirt in your wardrobe in 2021. These shirts strike a balance between the casual and the formal. Since they fall somewhere between the two, take some more liberties when choosing yours. The maroon Star Sailor from 7DIAMONDS will add a splash of variety to your look every time you wear it. 

8. Short-Sleeved Polo

You should always have a short-sleeved polo on hand. They breathe a casual air into any fancy get-together while still looking the part. They also add a touch of formality to even a simple night out with friends at your favorite bar or restaurant. The Nautica Deck Shirt is the perfect choice to get you started. 

9. Flannel or Other Long-Sleeved Button Down

Your wardrobe should contain a casual long-sleeved button down for any occasion. There's no better choice than a classic flannel shirt like the options from F/X Fusion. Perfect for the colder months, flannel provides warmth while keeping you looking your best with a pair of jeans and nice boots. 

10. Guayabera

Keep a guayabera from Penner's in your wardrobe to set you apart as a man of style and culture. Guayaberas originated in South America, but now they're popular all over the world. They feature tiny pleats across the front and back, one to four pockets and even adjustable vents on the side to keep you cool. 

11. Light-Colored Dress Shirt

A light-colored dress shirt is essential in every man's wardrobe. Great for any formal occasion, they pair well with black slacks and dress shoes. They also offer needed contrast when wearing a dark suit jacket. The white Luchiano Visconti dress shirt changes the formula with subtle color accents on the buttons, cuffs and collar. 

12. Dark-Colored Dress Shirt

Your wardrobe isn't complete without a dark-colored button-down dress shirt for formal gatherings. Having both dark and light dress shirts gives you variety when choosing your outfit. This is especially crucial if you find yourself at formal events on a regular basis. 

13. A Full Suit

For the fanciest occasions, like weddings and fundraisers, you need a full suit. This includes slacks and a jacket to pair with a well-fitted dress shirt, tie, belt and clean shoes. Make sure you choose a suit that is custom-tailored to your exact size so you can look your best. 

Sport Coat

14. Sport Coat

You can't go wrong with a sport coat in your wardrobe. Look great at a fancy dinner by pairing it with dress slacks. Or you can wear your sport coat with a nice pair of jeans for any casual yet upscale event. Choose a dark-colored sport coat for easier matching capabilities. 

15. Black Boots

A solid pair of black boots can enhance any outfit. They pair well with jeans, slacks, button-down shirts and even short-sleeved t-shirts. When regular shoes won't cut it, you need a pair of black boots, like the Stacy Adams Madison Cap Toe Boot

16. Casual Footwear

You need a pair of casual footwear to use for any occasion. When you live an active lifestyle where you'll be walking around a lot, you need to make sure you go with an option that is both comfortable and stylish. Dark shoes with white soles go well with any casual outfit. 

17. Dress Shoes

Keep a pair of dress shoes in your wardrobe for formal events. They'll look great with freshly ironed dress pants and a button-down dress shirt. Penner's sells a wide variety of dress shoes, so choose a pair that fits your style and the rest of your wardrobe. 

18. A Sturdy Pair of Work Boots

It's a good idea to keep a pair of sturdy work boots on hand. You never know when you might need them. And if your line of work deals with manual labor on a regular basis, then you know you'll need them every day. Choose a pair that is both functional and fashionable. 

19. Sandals

Instead of going through several pairs of cheap flip flops and sandals every summer, buy a pair of high-quality sandals. They come in several styles and fashions, so you're bound to find a pair to last you several years of relaxing by the pool and walking on the beach. Wear them with a pair of shorts, and you'll look great at parties and get-togethers all summer long.  

20. A Hat

Sometimes, a hat is a perfect complement to a high-quality outfit. Check out Penner's selection of hats to find one that suits your preferred style. If you haven't worn many hats throughout your life, remember that it's never too late to give it a try.

Upgrade Your Wardrobe at Penner's

Upgrade Your Wardrobe in 2021 by Shopping Penner's Quality Men's Clothing

Penner's has been providing quality men's clothing in San Antonio, Texas since 1916. With over 100 years of experience, we know how to help you assemble your wardrobe. If you want to fill your closet with high-quality clothing in 2021 and beyond, Penner's is the men's clothing store for you. 

We're also one of the nation's largest sellers of authentic guayaberas which make the perfect shirt for the hot San Antonio summers. For more information, give us a call at 210-226-2487 or contact us online today. We look forward to helping you assemble a stylish wardrobe to meet life's every occasion.