Spring is a transitional, full of uncertainty and weary optimism after the misery of a harsh winter. Taking that into consideration, it makes sense for your wardrobe to reflect such a period with versatile clothing that will keep you warm when it needs to, but workable on a nicer day. It's also a great time to do some cleaning and get rid of excess in your wardrobe to get back to the basics, so without further ado here are 25 of our favorite essentials for this season.
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A Guide to Men's Spring Style Essentials
The Basics of Men's Spring Style
Men's fashion is in a great place right now, with two dominant styles at the forefront. On one hand, we have the ever practical gorpcore look, chock full of cargos and Gore-Tex shells, and on the other we have the new wave blend of street and prep that has gripped the pockets of many. Both are great and immensely versatile, so we made sure to pick a healthy combination of the two for you to choose from.
1. The Tank Top
The steady return of the tank top into the world of fashion has been earmarked by luxury brands' latest shows, of which about half included them in some capacity. Wife beaters, or as we like to call them, wife pleasers, are an essential for anyone as they can be used as an underlayer to keep from dirtying a nice shirt, or worn with an unbuttoned shirt to show off those chest hairs you've been working to grow. There's no need to get fancy with these, so grab some from Amazon.
2. The Shades
The clouds are disappearing, and with that it's about time you got yourself a pair of sunglasses to protect those beautiful gems sitting in that face of yours. These chunky shades from Bonnie Clyde are sure to work on most face types, and are available in a wide range of colors to boot.
3. The Running Sneaker
A nice runner needs to be in your wardrobe, and there's no better starting place than the dad shoe gods over at New Balance. Their comfort is matched only by their versatility, making them suitable for spring as you start to get those legs moving again.
4. The Linen Shirt
It's time to toss those stuffy wool shirts in the closet in favor of the delicate touch of a nice linen. Thank me later, when you've been out and about all day and there's hardly a lick of sweat soaking itself through your shirt, making it clear to everyone that you know your fabrics. These one's from Uniqlo offer amazing quality for their price, so be sure to cop up before everybody else gets there first.
5. The White Sneaker
Level up your white shoe games with one of the hottest shoes of late, the Adidas Samba. We've been loving the low profile look, with added bonuses like the extended tongue and suede toe box. It gives off the same vibe as your average white shoe, but has those extra elements of visual interest to give it the edge over your average Stan Smith.
6. The Carry All Tote
A carry-all tote is an absolute necessity as we head into the warmer months, whether it be for a picnic at the park or shopping for the rest of your spring/summer essentials. This one from Engineered Garments comes in a beautiful olive ripstop material, with the added bonus of adjustable straps and an extra handhold if your shoulders get pooped.
7. The Shell Jacket
The three months that make up spring equate to the most unpredictable weather possible, so you better make sure you're ready for any occasion. Should you run into a surprise shower, reach for your Arc'teryx Beta LT, which is made from premium Gore-Tex material and folds up on itself for ultra-easy storage.
8. The Loafer
The prep wave of 2021 shows no signs of slowing down, so with that in mind it's about time you got yourself a pair of clean loafers. They can be dressed down with a pair of faded jeans and a varsity jacket, or dress them up on a nice day with shorts and a camp collar shirt. G.H. Bass's Weejuns have been a classic through the ages, just ask JFK.
9. The Trucket Hat
The trucker hat is all business in the front, and party in the back. These lightweight hats are easy to throw on when needed, and are sure to keep your head cool on a warm day with their foam and mesh construction. Just, please, for the love of god, don't get a Bass Pro Shop hat. Instead cop this one from Western Hydrodynamic Research, a brand that's been making waves in the streetwear community for the past few years now.
10. The Mule
Look, if you don't have a pair of Birkenstocks by now, just get them. Yes, they're hyped, yes they're everywhere, but people love them for a reason. Birks offer unparalleled comfort with their iconic cork soles, and the classic Boston chops the heel for easy access. Screw the tiger, it's the year of the mule.
11. The Bucket Hat
It would seem that hats go in and out of fashion at a breakneck pace, but we firmly believe that they will always have a place in the fashion world. Grab yourself one of the classics, or shake things up with this bell-shaped knit bucket hat from Stussy.
12. The Spring Scent
Now that the sun's out, yes, we can smell you. You might look the part, but without a fragrance to tie it all together it could be all for naught. Plus, there's nothing quite like that smug feeling when somebody asks you why you smell so damn good. Santal 33 from Le Labo is a classic, and makes a great starting point if you're just getting into the vast world of cologne.
13. The Perfect Jeans
This may seem obvious, but it would surprise you how many people don't have a classic pair of jeans. These 501's from Levi's are easily the most quintessential jean out there, but if they run you a little tight feel free to opt for a 505 in favor of a little thigh room. If you don't already own a pair, what are you doing man?
14. The Baggy Cargo
If you haven't been living under a rock, you'll know huge pants are the "it" thing right now, and Needles have you covered on that front. The bagginess is great for letting air in and out so you never feel too sweaty, but the material is sturdy enough to protect from a reasonable chill. Tie the bottoms for a cinched look or let them hang for maximum bagginess.
15. The Cardigan
The cardigan is no longer the territory of the 85-year-old country clubber sipping on his iced tea after slogging through a 4 hour 9-hole. Quite the contrary actually. Spice up a classic streetwear look with this cardigan from Acne and add a little prep swagger.
16. The Casual Flannel
Flannels are perfect for adding a little bit of flavor to an otherwise mundane fit. Layer it with a jacket, wear it on its own, the possibilities are truly limitless. This one from John Elliot matches quality with a beautifully light pattern that can fit seamlessly into any wardrobe.
17. The Going Out Shirt
Warmer weather means more nights out, so you better look the part. Go for a classic camp collar, or splurge on one of Bode's signature short sleeved shirts. Super lightweight and with a flattering boxy fit, these shirts could make a pig look good. You can opt for a simple look, or add a little flair with this lobster motif.
18. The Straight Leg Trouser
Dickies 874's are the quintessential straight leg trouser, and work with literally anything from sneakers to boots. Wear them cuffed to show off the nice white accents in the seams, or let them break perfectly over a pair of loafers. At just thirty bucks, they're simply unbeatable value.
19. The Lightweight Short
Thighs are in guys. There's no question about it, the 5" short reigns supreme, and Patagonia has absolutely perfected the design. With a nice mesh liner and breathable material, these shorts are perfect for those refreshingly warm spring days.
20. The Chore Jacket
Chore jackets have been enjoying a massive uptick in popularity of late, and with good reason. They hit that perfect middle ground between a heavy work jacket and a nice shirt. This one from Everlane makes for a perfect layering piece or top layer, so experiment and have fun with it.
21. The Fleece Pullover
Spring's unpredictable weather makes the fleece arguably the best layer of the season. Light and breathable while keeping you warm when it needs to, the Patagonia Synchilla is an absolute classic.
22. The Denim Jacket
There's no ifs ands or buts about it. You need a denim jacket. Great ones will last you a lifetime, aging and fading like a fine wine. They're also a fantastic for a little personalization, with pins and patches being common additions. Check out some of the fantastic options on sale now at Gap.
23. The Fitted Cap
A quality fitted cap should be a mainstay in everyone's closet. They're super versatile, adding a pop of color to any outfit in your wardrobe or adding a casual touch to an otherwise preppy outfit. They also have the added advantage of fitting your head perfectly, ensuring a snug and comfortable wear. Grab one of these classic fitted caps from Aime Leon Dore.
24. The Down Vest
We're leaving sleeves in winter, but we know you're still attached to your Nuptse that's served you well through those tough times. With that in mind, it's just a sidestep to The North Face's Nuptse vest, which comes with all the trimmings to keep your torso warm while you let those guns get some air.
25. The Go-to Hoodie
A great hoodie is a necessity year round, but the sweatshirt's ideal conditions are on a spring day where you can layer it at your leisure or just wear it on its own. Grab this one from our friends over at Seventh, who have perfected the fit of their sweatshirt for maximum comfort and ideal proportions.