• The Five Suits You Need in Your Closet
" Make sure you have these three collar types in your business wardrobe. And know how to pair them. Not all suits and ties go with all collars. "
• The Button-Down Collar
Very American. This is the least dressy collar choice; as such, you may want to look for a shirt cut from broadcloth (like the one shown here) rather than oxford cloth. You don't want a shirt that looks too casual for your business suit. This type of collar works best with medium-width ties.
• The Straight-Point Collar
Always a safe choice. The collar's narrow stance means it tucks nicely into high-cut three-button suits. Good for narrow-to-skinny ties.
• The Spread Collar
The most dashing, confident collar out there. Best with a medium-to-wide tie. And go for a traditional four-in-hand knot[1]; it's okay for a bit of the tie to show around the collar. And with a smaller spread collar, you'll want to keep your tie knot on the tighter side.
• Choosing a Shirt Cuff
" Know these three types. Make sure they fit correctly. And have your suit sleeves tailored so they show a quarter inch of cuff. "
• Single-Button Standard
The most common type of cuff, which you'll find on most moderately priced dress shirts. When fitting properly, it should reach the hinge of your wrist.
• French
The dressiest, most formal cuff choice. But you don't have to wear flashy cuff links and (after work) a tie with them. Try an open collar and more creative links.
• Two-Button Barrel
For the guy who wants a shirt with as much flair as his British- or Italian-made suit.
• The Perfect Shirt-and-Tie Wardrobe
" You can't have too many blue, white, or blue-and-white-striped dress shirts in your business wardrobe. They work with everything, but especially with our selection of modern ties. Build on these versatile basics. You can mix and match them at will. That's the key to a perfect business wardrobe. "
• Shoes That Work
" The right pair of shoes can bring your look together; the wrong pair can wipe out all of your best intentions. Don't blow it when it comes to your feet. And whatever shoes you choose for the office, add toe and heel taps to the soles, and use shoe trees when you're not wearing them. You'll significantly increase the shoes' life span. "
• Cap-Toe
You need at least one pair of slim black lace-ups for your business wardrobe. They work with every imaginable suit. Try these—the cap-toe detailing strikes a classic, professional look.
You should also own a pair of brown lace-ups, but when it comes to those, remember this basic rule: Brown shoes work with everything except a black suit.
• Plain-Toe
If you want something sharper and sleeker, go with a slim plain-toed lace-up. It's dressier than a cap-toe and can be worn with a tuxedo to formal events. But you can also wear it on the weekend with jeans and a blazer.
• Wingtip
The ultimate business shoe. Its intricate old-school detailing signals maturity and prestige. And don't worry about looking too banker-like—wingtips are back in fashion these days.
• Loafer
A dressier version of these casual classics adds flair to your wardrobe. In the warmer months, try them with a khaki business suit. And if you're feeling adventurous, go sockless.
• Socks for Suits
" Opt for over-the-calf ribbed business socks. You don't want to show any leg when seated. Don't get carried away with bold colors or patterns—keep it classic. And match the color of your socks with your suit, not your shoes.“
The Finishing Touches
• Pocket Squares
A cotton pocket square can add a dash of elegance to a business suit. Just keep it simple: Stay away from patterned silk ones, and wear yours square, not puffy or multipeaked. And never buy a matching tie-and-pocket-square set.
• To Belt or Not to Belt?
Like pant cuffs, belts are a personal preference. Slimmer suits or trousers with side tabs don't require a belt. If you are going to wear a belt, keep it slim and tasteful for the office. And generally speaking, it's preferable to match your belt to your shoes when dressing for business.
• Cuff Links
You'll need these when wearing a dressy French-cuff shirt. Just choose ones that are tasteful and refined—you don't want to be too flashy. And no, your links don't need to match your watch.
• Watches
As we've insisted all along, less is more. Nothing should attract a disproportionate amount of attention—you want a clean, balanced, and classic look. All of these timeless watches will help you strike precisely that. They're slim, and they fit right under the cuff of your dress shirt.
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