The Four Investment Pieces You Need


Scenario: You've liberated a genie from a lamp—because anything is possible in 2017. Instead of wishes, however, he's offering four items for your wardrobe, and he's willing to splurge, too. What do you tell him? We got you. Here are four essentials for every closet, so you're ready for this fateful day.

Stitch Fix Men’s cream crewneck pullover, grey polo and navy blazer hanging on grey rack, with light button-down shirts folded and tan leather sneakers on grey shelves, next to brown chukkas on the floor.

Here’s a rundown of four must-have investment items for every man’s closet.

Waxed-cotton jacket

If a genie’s buying, then you definitely want to consider a waxed-cotton jacket. Made popular by British heritage brand Barbour, the weatherproof coats are a mix of rugged outdoorsman-meets-English countryside manner. The rumpled quality of waxed cotton contrasts well with formal wear, and can soften the look. Of course, a Beaufort or Bedale will always look good with casual or workwear, so go ahead and get outside.

Stitch Fix Men’s black wax jacket.

And remember: there’s scads of function behind that form. Short of wearing a yellow PVC slicker raincoat (and we do not advise that), there’s nothing that keeps you drier on a damp day. Waxed cotton acts as a thermal insulator, so even a thin layer is effective at warding off cold.

Navy blazer

Like influenza and land sharks, semi-formal events can strike when you least expect it. Two days before an office party, you remember the invite’s ominous directions: “snappy casual.” You consider a suit—too James Bond. How about a sweater? Too Carlton Banks. Enter the blazer.

Stitch Fix Men’s navy knit blazer.

Dark is good and navy is gravy. The deep blue is sure to match anything in your closet and it’s not as stuffy as black or grey. A smart-fitting blazer is a piece that straddles the line between casual and formal, between evening and day-wear, and between business and party. Everyone needs a dependable threshold garment, and this is one.

Dark denim

Dark jeans are the blazers of the pants world. They can dress you up or make an outfit more casual. And because dark is more neutral, these jeans can go places regular blue jeans just can’t. They’re like denim with a diplomat passport. Dark denim works well with a T-shirt or casual button-up or pretty much anything you can throw at it.

Stitch Fix Men’s dark wash straight-leg jeans.

Oh, and did we forget to mention that jeans are hella comfortable? We did. Choose dark denim before you shell out for semi-formal slacks. These will never go out of style.

Shawl-collar cardigan sweater

Now hear this: cardigans are cozy. They are comfy. They are warm. And they look good. There is absolutely no outfit that a cardigan can’t improve. Add a neutral cardi to a T-shirt and jeans for that instant “trustworthy adjunct professor” look.

Cardigans can also take the edge off a too-formal look. Scenario: Man walks up to you wearing a jacket and tie. “Is he selling me index funds?” Replace that jacket with a friendly, shawl-collar cardigan in a warm shade: “Is this man going to offer a beer and want to bro-down?” Yes, he is.

Stitch Fix Men’s brown shawl cardigan.

The cardigan is a dependable layer that’s easy to toss in a backpack and unleash when you need it. Layering adds complexity to an outfit, and a button-up sweater is an easy and quick way to add a daub of character to your ensemble.

Are you ready to invest in wardrobe essentials that go the distance? Take your style quiz, and an expert stylist will curate a Fix for you with trend-proof pieces you’ll reach for year after year. Keep what you love and return the rest. Shipping is always free.

Style Advice, Anytime

Get expert fashion advice without the expert price.

Get a personal stylist

Get articles and style advice—straight to your feed.

Follow Us