Button down shirt
Why you need it: This wardrobe staple works in most situations, from the business-casual workplace to bar-hopping with friends.
Where to get it:
Uniqlo's Men Slim Fit Long Sleeve Shirt ($29.95)
Crew neck sweater
Why you need it: This wardrobe staple is diverse. It can be worn alone, or layered with a button-down shirt.
Where to get it:
Gap's Merino Crewneck Sweater ($49.95)
Henley shirt
Why you need it: the henley has the comfort level of a t-shirt, but you'll look more put-together while wearing it.
Where to get it:
H&M's Henley Shirt For Men ($49.95)
Banana Republic's Heritage Contrast Trim-Textured Henley ($49.50)
Lacoste's Pima Cotton Henley via Nordstrom ($69.95)
Cardigan
Why you need it: The cardigan is both versatile and fashion-forward. You can layer it over almost any shirt.
Where to get it:
Express' Space Dyed Cardigan ($69.90)
J. Crew's Cotton-Cashmere Cardigan ($74.50)
Basic jeans
Why you need it: A pair of dark jeans that fit correctly are invaluable to any wardrobe. Buy the right pair, and you'll want to wear them every day. Try a slim, tailored fit to look put-together.
Where to get them:
Gap's 1969 Slim ($59.95)
Slim-fitting chinos
Why you need it: These pants are as comfortable as jeans, but have a more dressed-up look.
Where to get them:
ASOS Slim Chino ($40.94)
Banana Republic's Aiden Slim-Fit Chino ($59.50)
Polo Ralph Lauren's Slim-Fit Stretch Chino ($125)
Trendy sneakers
Why you need them: These sneakers are as comfortable as your gym shoes, but look much more polished with jeans.
Where to get them:
Generic Surplus Wellington Hi-Canvas (via Zappos) $59.99
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Double Zip Hi Vintage (via Piperlime) $65
Cole Haan 'Bergen' Wingtip Sneaker (via Nordstrom) $145
Chukka boots
Why you need them: These are the closest thing men get to rain boots. They're more weather-proof than your sneakers, but still appear somewhat dressy.
Where to get them:
Watch
Why you need it: A watch can pull together a casual outfit.
Where to get it:
ASOS Watch with Vintage Look $36
Fossil's Grant Chronograph Leather Watch $105
Marc by Marc Jacobs Men's Chronograph Olive Leather Strap (via Macy's) $250
Peacoat
Why you need it: A peacoat provides essential outerwear that looks better than your average down coat.
Where to get it:
H&M's Double-Breasted Peacoat ($99)
Gap's Wool Peacoat $148
Kenneth Cole Reaction's Melton Peacoat (via Nordstrom) $250