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Ultimate Investments
We're making a plan this year to invest in the best items we can. Value has always been something that we've prized here at Valet. That doesn't necessarily mean something has to be inexpensive. It means that the item is valuable—worthy of the cost. Because to buy well means that you've bought something that will serve you for years to come. Welcome to the “Ultimate Investments”, a week-long roundup of the best buys for 2023 and beyond.
Menswear Staples That Will
Never Go Out of Style
The list of clothing that will serve every stylish man isn't all that long, really. Sure, there are those pieces that are “having a moment,” or the ones that are fun for a season or two but you know will likely fade out of fashion. But then there are those simple pieces that routinely serve a man well. Timeless, high-quality items that epitomize the “buy less, but buy better” mantra. We've pulled together ten investment pieces that are well-crafted, comfortable and suited to complement any man's personal style, while forming the foundation of any successful wardrobe.
1
Hard-Wearing Jeans
If you're like us, there's not an item in your wardrobe you wear more than jeans. And when it comes to denim, one brand remains the first and last word—Levi's. If you want the utmost quality and craftsmanship, opt for a pair from the Premium Levi's line. This pair, based on a 501 fit from 1993, is stonewashed for an authentic look and feel with a comfortable, slightly boxier silhouette.
501 '93 jean,
$98 by Levi's Premium
2
Classic Cashmere Sweater
There's a reason cashmere is king—it's the strongest, warmest and softest form of wool there is. Which is why they make such swanky sweaters. And when it comes to such an all-time preppy classic, you can't go wrong with Ralph Lauren. The proportions are just right, because the brand has made and remade this navy crewneck hundreds of times. This version of the wear-with-anything sweater has been specially treated for easy care, while maintaining its breathability and sumptuous texture.
Cashmere crewneck,
$298 by Ralph Lauren
3
A Suede
Jacket
A leather jacket is a classic piece, but can sometimes feel a bit extreme. It takes some confidence to pull one off. But if the jacket is actually suede, leather's less shiny side, it's somehow easier to wear. And more comfortable and breathable too. A good one is definitely going to cost you, but a suede jacket doesn't need to convinece you to buy it, it just sits back and waits to improve your style—because it always does. And there's no better one, in our opinion, than Todd Snyder's Dylan jacket. Which might be why so many of Hollywood's leading men have worn it here and there.
Suede Dylan jacket,
$998 by Todd Snyder
4
A Simple
White Shirt
For special occasions, the office and anytime you don't know what to wear. When choosing the fabric, we like a refined twill or oxford cloth—both of which travel well and have a nice texture without drawing too much attention to itself. Keep it pressed and keep it clean. It's as easy as that.
Twill dress shirt,
$260 by Eton
5
A Camel
Coat
A soft, luxurious long coat in a warm shade of tan? It's a classic color and a versatile piece of outerwear that isn't going anywhere anytime soon. If you're looking for an investment, this version from French label Sandro, is the perfect fit, length and feel. It looks good dressed up with a suit or thrown over a hoodie and some jeans.
Wool Apollo coat,
$790 by Sandro
6
Navy
Trousers
A pair of navy trousers that toe the line between dressed up and down are most definitely a wardrobe must-have. Wear them to work or a wedding with a pair of lace-up shoes and a proper blazer. And then again the next day with a pair of loafers and a denim jacket on a weekend date. Danish label NN07's dapper twill pants are inspired by classic trousers but have a touch of stretch for comfort and a more contemporary silhouette.
Clement cotton twill trousers,
$255 by NN07
7
The Perfect Sweatshirt
Maybe there's no such thing as the “perfect” sweatshirt. Because they can be so many things, from super-heavy and oversized to breezy and tie-dyed. But if you want one that will last you, that will always be in style and never let you down, you'll want to invest in a John Elliott sweatshirt. Specifically, his oversized crew in a custom knit French terry material. It's ridiculously soft and cut to be comfortable and still flattering to the body.
Oversized pullover sweatshirt,
$188 by John Elliott
8
A Denim
Shirt
A vintage Levi's denim shirt is never a bad look, but they can take some time and money to track down. This one, from J.Crew, is a really great option that's ready to go. Made from sturdy 10-ounce denim that's suitable for year-round wear, it's fitted with two chest patch pockets and cut in a comfortable fit that works both tucked and untucked.
Heavyweight denim workshirt,
$118 by J.Crew
9
Adaptable Chore Coat
A few years ago, a blazer would certainly have been on this list. But in 2020, an adaptable chore coat will serve you a whole lot more. Because a good one, like Taylor Stitch's Ojai jacket, can serve as a modern replacement for a navy blazer because it's cut from a handsome double-sateen cotton. But it also works as off-duty outerwear, thanks to the rugged ring-backed buttons, slanted side-entry pocket openings and durable double-needle stitching throughout.
Ojai jacket,
$188 by Taylor Stitch
10
Better Underwear
Tom Ford famously said that a man should always change up all of his underwear and socks every six months. That might be a bit extreme, but there's something to be said for fresh underwear. And when a garment sits against your skin for the better part of a day, shouldn't it be of the most uncompromising quality?
Boxer brief,
$89 (for 3-pack) by CDLP