How To Put Together a Casual Men’s Outfit

Casual clothes boast comfort and style. While many men will just throw on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, you can still create a fashionable look that doesn’t feel like you just rolled out of bed. True casual style has a wide canvas of opportunities for expression and is easy to put together without coming with all the formality of a suit.

If you’re unsure how to put together a casual men’s outfit, MondoUomo is here to help. We aim to cover the essential elements of a casual wardrobe, from shirts to pants, as well as layering and accessorizing opportunities.

Select a High-Quality T-Shirt

T-shirts are one of the most comfortable and versatile options for an outfit. The shirt should lightly skim the torso without being restrictive or excessively loose.

Pay attention to the shoulder seams, which should align with the edge of your shoulders. High-quality cotton varieties offer superior softness and durability compared to standard cotton. It’s a good idea to have a small collection of neutral-colored T-shirts in white, black, and navy. These allow you to wear them on their own, but open the opportunity for numerous outfits.

Choose Your Trousers

Jeans are a classic option, but you can use a pair of simple slacks as a slightly more polished alternative. Pants come in a wide range of colors from traditional black or khaki to a nice burgundy, and it’s easy to dress them up or down depending on your preferences.

For a more relaxed feel, consider trousers made from linen or lightweight cotton during warmer months. Regardless of the style you choose, a good fit is the most important element. A slim or straight cut provides a nice clean line from your hip to your ankle. With pants, it’s usually a good idea to avoid anything overly baggy or uncomfortably tight.

Layer With a Simple Shirt

An addition you can make with a T-shirt is a layered shirt on top of it. These are frequently short-sleeved, button-up shirts with a simple plaid or striped pattern that pair nicely with the color of the T-shirt beneath it.

When layering, the outer shirt should be slightly looser than the T-shirt to allow for comfortable movement. Roll up the sleeves to just below the elbow for a more relaxed yet deliberate appearance.

Add a Sweater

External factors are important when considering how to put together a casual men’s outfit. If the weather is brisk, consider throwing on a light sweater, which adds warmth and texture to the ensemble. A crewneck or V-neck sweater in a fine-gauge knit, like merino wool or cashmere, offers a sophisticated layering option over a T-shirt or collared shirt.

For a more casual and textured look, a chunky knit sweater made from lambswool or a cotton blend works well. Neutral colors, including charcoal, navy, and tan, provide the most styling options, pairing seamlessly with a wide range of trousers and jackets. Try to find a sweater that fits comfortably over the base layer without adding bulk or clinging too tightly around the body.

Incorporate a Casual Jacket

A jacket is the final layer that ties an entire outfit together. This piece not only provides protection from the elements but also adds a fun style element. A classic denim jacket is a timeless choice that pairs well with chinos or non-denim trousers.

Bomber jackets in nylon or suede are popular options and pair well with many types of shirts and pants. Another versatile choice is a field jacket or chore coat, which brings a utilitarian edge to your look. Finding a jacket that fits comfortably over the layers and allows you to move around without feeling restrictive is key.

Select Stylish Footwear

Footwear is an important element that can tie the rest of the look together. Minimalist leather sneakers in white or black are incredibly versatile, grounding the outfit. For something slightly more elevated, consider desert boots or chukka boots in suede or leather.

Loafers, either penny or tassel, offer a sophisticated yet relaxed option that pairs well with chinos. Avoid worn-out athletic shoes, unless you’re aiming for a sporty aesthetic. Try to keep your footwear clean and in good condition, as the shape of your shoes can impact your overall presentation more than you realize.

Coordinate Colors

A cohesive color palette is crucial for a luxurious outfit. Start with a neutral base for the large pieces, such as the trousers and jacket. Gray, black, navy, beige, and olive provide a solid foundation. You can then introduce color and contrast with your shirt, sweater, and accessories.

A monochromatic look is another approach. It involves wearing different shades of the same color for a sophisticated, modern effect.

Alternatively, you can use complementary colors to create a more dynamic and eye-catching ensemble. Limiting an outfit to two or three main colors generally results in a more cohesive, intentional appearance.

Accessorize Thoughtfully

Adding some nice accessories to your outfit can help you keep the casual vibe, but still stand out. For example, consider wearing a leather belt that coordinates with your shoes. It’s a simple addition, but it’s one that shows genuine care in outfit coordination. A classic wristwatch adds a touch of sophistication and utility. During cold weather, scarves add warmth and texture to the whole outfit.

One of the best and most iconic accessories for a casual look is a good pair of sunglasses. The guiding principle for accessorizing is subtlety; each piece should complement the outfit without overwhelming it. Choose a few key items that enhance your look rather than distract from it.

Assemble One Amazing Outfit at a Time

Creating a stylish outfit is a matter of mastering fundamental principles. By building a wardrobe of high-quality, versatile pieces and paying close attention to fit, color, and maintenance, you can consistently put together refined, comfortable looks.

If you’re searching for high-quality, comfortable clothes for your wardrobe, look no further than MondoUomo. We have curated wardrobe essentials and amazing accessories from top brands, like John Varvatos, to make you stand out. Check out our online catalog today and learn how we can help upgrade your fashion choices.