SIX WARDROBE ESSENTIALS EVERY MODERN MAN NEEDS

Trends come and go but genuine elegance is forever. Here are the must-haves of the modern male wardrobe that will suit any occasion. Don't let their formality intimidate you and work your way into it by starting from the perfect staples. After all, nothing is less elegant than feeling uneasy in one's clothes.

 THE BLAZER

Versatile and elegant, a blazer works equally well in the office and in more casual contexts. Opt for classic navy to make the most of it.

 THE WHITE SHIRT

President Obama sports it with neither tie nor jacket. A white shirt is a garment you can always rely on, even when you've skipped your appointment at the barber's.

 THE GRAY SUIT

A gray suit speaks at once of discipline and progress. Channel "Mad Men" chic and turn it into your new office staple.

  CHINOS

A declaration of elegance in true American fashion. The modern chino fits like a pair of jeans, with no pleats at the front.

 LACE-UP SHOES

A worthy investment, they suit every occasion. Avoid square-toed and pointy designs and opt for a style that complements the shape of your feet.

THE LIGHTWEIGHT COAT

Worn over a jacket, the right overcoat should be lightweight. Alternatively, wear over a crew neck tee with a dose of nonchalance for a sharp everyday look.

WEEKEND GETAWAY

WHEN TRAVELING, OPT FOR LAYERS AND EASY ELEGANCE.
Sartorial staples for the globe-trotting generation. Whether for business or leisure, we're all frequent travelers. For short trips, it's all about packing light. Find the perfect weekend bag and opt for comfortable outerwear. Pockets and cases are essential to keep your devices and documents in perfect order. Over your jacket, wear a waterproof coat in case you need to brave the elements. Go for earthy tones and add a touch of print. Ideally, bring a single pair of lace-up shoes or a suede loafer in a spicy hue.

ON THE ROCKS (Shaken Not Stirred)

FOR COCKTAIL PARTIES AND LOUNGE visits, UPDATE YOUR EVENING-WEAR WITH A TOUCH OF EFFORTLESS CHIC.A strong cocktail might make heads spin but so will your dapper elegance. Evening-wear comes with a strong set of rules and allows for only a few touches of fantasy. Opt for a statement jacket, such as a tuxedo style with skinny lapels, or go for an evening-appropriate double-breasted number, to be worn undone over a t-shirt. Shirts can either be white or gray, possibly with origami pleating. The collar should be small, almost invisible. Accessories are essential: a silk tie or scarf, shiny leather shoes and the all-important cuff-links.

“Dress Code” Doesn't Mean “Boring”

Urban elegance.

Here I come...