Being well-dressed can make all the difference in a man’s work and personal life.

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Read on to find out what we have unearthed to be men’s professional wardrobe essentials in 2021.

Undoubtedly, the modern professional man has more options than in previous decades to express himself; here we are going to take a quick look at how men’s fashion has evolved into the looks that we know and look to for inspiration today.

Men’s fashion has taken some drastic changes, although there are some elements that we can still see today, paying tribute to the smart dressers our ancestors were. For example, the simple work shirt has been around since the Victorian era, often dressed in a waistcoat, tailored trousers and the occasional top hat.

Looking at the last 50 years in men’s fashion alone we can see the influences in modern work clothes. From the love of patterns and paisley in the '70s, power dressing and full shoulders of the '80s, the baggy revolution of the '90s to the slimmed-down opposite in the '00s – each era has what men wear today.

10 Men’s Professional Wardrobe Essentials

There are some classic pieces that every professional man should own. To make it easy for you, we have created a men’s wardrobe essentials checklist below to get started.

1. White Shirt

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A crisp white shirt is essential for any professional Whether you are in a busy office or heading to after-work drinks, a white shirt is a clean slate and something that you can easily style with accessories.

2. Khaki Pants

Having a pair of khaki pants in your wardrobe means that you are covered no matter the event. If you are heading to a smart casual event or meeting, team them up with a shirt. For a more casual look, switch for a polo or T-shirt.

3. Plain T-shirt

A plain t-shirt is perfect for chilling out but still looking stylish, or you can pair it with a jacket or blazer to give it a little more of a smart casual look. Look at getting a few colours so you can have some variety.

4. Jeans

It sounds simple, right? But a good pair of jeans can make or break an outfit. Look into a pair that fit well, are comfortable and can be worn with a range of different style tops. When it comes to jeans, see them as an investment piece.

5. Coat

As the colder months set in, you are going to need a decent coat. Gone are the days where waterproof coats will make you look like a walking marshmallow! You can find coats that look stylish while also keeping you warm and dry. Top tip: a black coat will go with all of your outfits.

6. Polo Shirt

The polo shirt may have started on the pitch with a horse in tow, but now it is a comfortable addition to the professional wardrobe, appropriate for dress-down days or a relaxed event.

7. Sweater

Another winter warmer for you – a sweater can easily be paired with any kind of trouser whether you prefer khaki pants, chinos or jeans a decent sweater will work with them all. This can also be your opportunity to have a little bit of colour in your wardrobe. Consider a blue, green or red sweater – give it a go!

8. Shoes

These boots were made for walking, after all. Whatever your style choice investing in a pair of shoes that will not only look good but are comfortable to wear is a smart choice, it is something you will wear every day so it is worth spending a little more where you can to get the right shoe.

9. Belt

Make sure you are covered with a belt that you can trust to keep your outfit in one piece. It is also an excellent accessory. Do not forget – make sure you match your belt and shoes and avoid the fashion police.

10. Blazer

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A blazer can be a game-changer and allows you to introduce a pattern or some colour into your outfit without going too over the top. So why not try something a little different, perhaps a checked pattern that you can mix up with different colour shirts or trousers.

You are now ready to add those essential pieces to your wardrobe that will make you look professional, while also feeling confident. Go get them!

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It’s said that a gentleman called Beau Brummell started the suit we know and love today in the early 1800s.