From timeless white t-shirts and button-up shirts to versatile leather jackets and crewneck jumpers, the best men's basics are the essential building blocks of a stylish and functional wardrobe.
These go-to pieces are what fashion editors, stylists, and everyday dressers alike rely on to create a look that works from casual weekends to smart casual settings.
With so many brands and options on the market, we've narrowed down the top 10 basics brands that deliver serious bang for your buck. Think affordable price points, quality fabrics, and cool, understated style.
Whether you're refreshing your closet or building it from the ground up, these are the staple garments every man should own in 2025.
What To Consider When Choosing The Best Basics For Men
When it comes to building a wardrobe that lasts, it all starts with quality basics. These are the pieces that provide the foundation for nearly every outfit you wear.
Whether you're dressing for the office, a weekend getaway, or a long-haul flight, the best men's basics blend timeless style with functionality and comfort.
Fabric
Fabric matters. The right fabric ensures durability, breathability, and comfort. Look for natural materials like cotton, wool, and merino blends, which offer softness and resilience.
Stretch fabrics also add flexibility, particularly in underwear and jeans, helping you stay comfortable throughout the day. On laundry day, you'll be thankful for garments that hold up well to repeated washes.
Fit
The best basics should fit your body well. You want a white t-shirt that hugs your chest without clinging to your stomach, jeans that sit comfortably at your waist, and underwear that doesn’t ride up.
Tailored or slim fits offer a more polished silhouette while relaxed fits provide laid-back comfort. Always consider your body type and how the fit will complement your shape.
Colour
Stick to neutral colours like grey, navy, black, and white; these versatile styles go with pretty much anything in your closet. A wardrobe built around these tones makes mixing and matching easy, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
Once your basics are covered, you can experiment with pops of colour to enhance your look.
The 10 Best Men's Basics To Add To Your Wardrobe
1. The Best Underwear: Calvin Klein Cotton Stretch Boxer Briefs
Price: £54 for a pack of 5 on Zalando (sale price)
Underwear is the unsung hero of your closet. Calvin Klein delivers a classic pair that gets it absolutely right. These boxer briefs are crafted from ultra-soft 100% cotton with added stretch for comfort.
The contoured pouch supports without constriction, and the mid-thigh cut ensures no bunching under pants.
Whether you're hitting the gym or navigating a busy workday, this quality pair stays breathable, supportive, and maintains shape after dozens of washes.
Pros
- Soft stretch fabric
- Durable through washes
- Supportive contoured pouch
- Maintains shape and fit long-term
- Breathable and sweat-wicking
Cons
- Slightly pricier than other basics
2. The Best T-Shirt: Abercrombie Relaxed Essential Tee
Price: £18
The perfect white t-shirt is a must-have, and Abercrombie’s Essential Tee fits the bill. Made from durable 180g cotton, this relaxed-fit tee offers comfort with a touch of structure. The longer sleeves and straight hem make it ideal for layering or wearing alone.
This tee is a cool, casual staple, whether thrown on with denim or under a leather jacket.
Pros
- Available in various colours and lengths
- Comfortable, durable fabric
- Versatile style for layering or solo wear
- Relaxed fit suits most body types
Cons
- The roomier silhouette won't suit every body type
3. The Best Leather Jacket: AllSaints Cora Leather Snap Back Collar Jacket
Price: £429
A classic leather jacket never goes out of style, and AllSaints nails it with the Cora.
Crafted from 100% sheep leather, this jacket offers a sleek silhouette with snap collar detail and subtle hardware. It’s the perfect layer to throw over a shirt for an effortlessly sophisticated look.
Pros
- Premium soft leather
- Timeless and versatile style
- High-quality construction
- Great for smart and casual outfits
Cons
- Higher price point
4. The Best Crewneck Jumper: Uniqlo Lambswool Crew Neck Jumper
Price: £34.90
Made from pure lambswool, this Uniqlo jumper is a warm, soft addition to your basics collection. It's a regular fit that's great for layering under jackets or wearing solo.
Offered in nine neutral colours, it’s a wardrobe essential perfect for cooler months.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Soft and warm wool
- Range of neutral colour options
- Ideal for layering
Cons
- Hand wash only
5. The Best Men's Polo Shirt: Polo Ralph Lauren Tailored Fit Performance Mesh Polo Shirt
Price: £119
Nothing says classic like a Ralph Lauren polo.
This tailored fit version features stretch cotton fabric, a rib-knit collar, and the iconic embroidered pony logo.
It’s sleek enough for dressier occasions and relaxed enough for everyday wear. The tailored fit hugs the biceps and tapers through the waist, giving it a polished silhouette.
Pros
- Timeless style
- Comfortable tailored fit
- High-quality cotton blend
- Versatile for dress or casual outfits
- Embroidered logo adds signature detail
Cons
- Higher price point
6. The Best Jeans: 501® Levi's® Original Jeans
Price: £90
A good pair of jeans is essential, and Levi’s 501® delivers with iconic status. These straight-fit, non-stretch jeans are made from 100% cotton and constructed using Water<Less™ technology, offering sustainability and durability.
Designed to sit at the waist and cut in a regular fit through the thigh, they provide a timeless base for any casual look.
Pros
- Classic fit and look
- Sustainable production
- Iconic denim style
- Pairs well with most basics
- Long-lasting and durable fabric
Cons
- No stretch, may need break-in period
7. The Best Men's Trainers: Everlane Tread Bare Sneaker
Price: £128
Lightweight and low-impact, Everlane's Tread Bare Sneaker is the definition of sustainable style. This pair feels barely there with a recycled cotton canvas upper and natural latex sole while offering support and longevity.
At only 4.78 kg CO₂e per pair, they have one of the lowest carbon footprints of any pair of trainers on the market.
Looking for a more statement pair that won't break the bank? Check out our guide to the best Adidas Samba dupes and alternatives.
Pros
- Eco-friendly materials
- Ultra-light and versatile
- Minimalist design fits any outfit
- Low carbon footprint
- Comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Minimalist design may not appeal to everyone
8. The Best Men's Dress Shoes: ECCO Men's Citytray Plain Toe Tie Oxford
Price: £88 - £140 on Amazon
For occasions when denim won’t cut it, the ECCO Citytray Oxford steps in. With premium leather, FluidForm arch support, and a refined silhouette, it’s a comfortable and polished shoe for work and events.
Unlike many dress shoes, this pair doesn’t require a break-in period, delivering instant comfort and flexibility.
Pros
- Immediate comfort
- Dressy yet versatile
- Supportive and durable sole
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Suitable for formal and smart casual wear
Cons
- On the higher end price-wise
9. The Best Socks: Pairs Scotland Merino Everyday Neutral Collection
Price: £35 for a pack of 4
Socks might not be flashy, but a soft, temperature-regulating pair like this from Pairs Scotland makes all the difference.
Made from 60% Merino wool, these are breathable and durable with neutral tones to suit any outfit. They're naturally moisture-wicking, making them ideal for work, weekends, or taking on trips.
Pros
- Merino wool comfort
- Stylish neutral shades
- Temperature regulating and soft
- Long-lasting fabric
- Great for daily wear
Cons
- Slightly premium pricing for socks
10. The Best Button Down Shirt: Charles Tyrwhitt Button-Down Collar Non-Iron Twill Shirt
Price: £29.95 (sale price)
This Charles Tyrwhitt shirt is a button-down essential. With a non-iron twill weave, split yoke, and back pleats for comfort, it's a reliable go-to for both the boardroom and casual Friday.
Available in both slim and classic fits, it offers style with convenience. The crisp, structured look makes it perfect for dressing up without the hassle of ironing.
Pros
- Wrinkle-free convenience
- Sharp yet comfortable fit
- Great value for price
- Machine washable and easy to care for
- Comes in classic and slim fits
Cons
- Limited colour options
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