What Every Man Should Own
The Updated List
When I first made this list a few years back it was the most popular newsletter I’d written. People were curious! I refined it last year (people were still curious). And now I’d like to do it again through a slightly different filter.
Yes, you should have an unstructured sport coat, a line-up of shirts you like and a smart tuxedo. But this time let’s think about upgrades, more rarefied options and the ideal version of what we all know you need.
1/ A Soft Tweed Coat. I’m all for the secondhand Harris tweed jacket; I own many. But a more tailored, soft tweed (even a cashmere blend) can enter your rotation in a big way. This is a slightly dressier jacket that would be at home with grey flannel trousers. Finding the right one is worth the journey, but Ralph Lauren is a good place to start since they’ve mastered the art.
2/ Dress Shoes for an Occasion. The party line here is that every man will be happy with Alden suede loafers. This remains true. But when you dress up (you’ve got a suit you love, right?) then you need something a little loftier. You don’t need to wear these every day and probably shouldn’t. I’ve praised my beloved Crockett & Jones Westfield oxfords before. The Berkley from Edward Green would also do the trick. If you’re not feeling spendy then look for Polo shoes on eBay produced in England—these can be very good and are often made by Crockett & Jones.
3/ A Better Overcoat. A good overcoat is a wonderful thing. It elevates everything you wear in winter. It also makes a statement about your intent (ambitious) and reveals a welcome indifference to cost/benefit analysis. The better overcoat should take a stride away from default grey and blue and can certainly be double-breasted. At the very least it’s good to remember that unless you’re summiting Everest never arrive anywhere serious in a parka.