Spring’s 20 Essentials for Your Wardrobe Update

#1 Sport Coat.
Why is it a Find? The linen/cotton fabric and soft construction of this Michael Kors navy blazer make it a wonderful Find once Spring and Summer weather hits. The soft construction creates a casual feel that is still completely appropriate for a day in the office or an evening out. It’s going to be the only blazer you’ll need to pack for a casual business trip or vacation - it’s that good.
Wear it with: Whether you choose your favorite twill pants or a stylish pair of dark jeans, this blazer will look just right. Add a solid white or patterned shirt – you can even play with some Spring color. And if you want to create a professional look for a meeting, this blazer looks great with a tie.
Fit Tip: The contemporary fit is trim, but the style’s soft construction keeps it from being too trim.
Alternatives: For an easier, modern fit, Robert Graham has a equally dapper tan sport coat.

#2 Pattern.
Why is it a Find? Patterns using bold color combinations are a must-have this season, and this red and blue plaid is one of our favorites. Michael Kors designed this shirt with a soft spread collar that offsets the crisp feel of the colors for a relaxed feel that is just right for a casual work or night out look.
Wear it with: This shirt easily stands on its own, whether you choose to wear it with dark jeans, neutral tan or grey twill pants, or a stylish pair of white jeans. The beauty of the strong pattern is that it will also add interest to your basic grey sweaters and pop any navy blazer.
Fit Tip: The modern fit is meant for “everygent” – it’s not too trim and can be worn untucked without looking sloppy.
Alternatives: Robert Talbott offers a similar color combination if you prefer an easier fit.

#3 White.
Why is it a Find? The color white is actually a trend this season, gents wore it head-to-toe on the runways. Whether you’re ready for that or not, Vineyard Vines’ linen button up shirt is an easy interpretation that will fit into your wardrobe for seasons to come. The shorter spread collar creates a business casual attitude that also works for any casual look.
Wear it with: The beauty of white linen button up shirt is that you can wear it with anything. Tailored pants or dark jeans make it suitable for a relaxed work day, broken-in jeans give a cool and nonchalant vibe, shorts create the perfect vacation look.
Fit Tip: The easy, modern fit works with the relaxed style.
Alternatives: If your size is already sold out through the 'shop it' button, Vineyard Vines sells it on their own site, too. Instead of linen, J.Crew offers a trimmer, contemporary fit alternative in a washed oxford fabric that is equally laid back.

#4 Spring Sweater.
Why is it a Find? Cardigan sweaters have become a key item for a polished office or evening out look – especially in the warmer weather when a sport coat can feel stuffy. The black and grey micro pattern of this truly luxurious cotton zip cardigan from Hugo Boss is simply amazing. Every detail is well-appointed, including the 2-way zipper, stand collar, and contrasting black ribbed trim.
Wear it with: Because this sweater has that subtle pattern, it easy to wear with charcoal and black wool dress pants, whether you choose dressier wool ones or more casual cotton versions. The tight pattern can be worn over a dressier small pattern button up, and of course, looks so dapper over a crisp white or blue shirt. Add a tie for a finishing touch.
Fit Tip: The fit is contemporary to create a trim and polished look, ensuring this won’t take on too casual of a feel.
Alternatives: For an easier fit and classic look, Polo Ralph Lauren’s black linen cardigan still has quite a polished feel.

#5 Stripes.
Why is it a Find? While always a staple, stripes are bigger than ever this season. This lightweight sweater from Billy Reid is a perfect way to add them to your weekend wardrobe. The heathered navy bar stripes step it up from the ordinary, with a lived-in look that you’ll reach for all the time.
Wear it with: Keep it casual by layering it over a white t-shirt with dark wash jeans, solid shorts, or even navy or grey joggers.
Fit Tip: The fit is modern, meant to easily skim the body. If you prefer an easier fit, you can size up.
Alternatives: Brooks Brothers Red Fleece collection offers a slimmer fit, contemporary take on this look that is also a great weekend look.

#6 Utilitarian.
Why is it a Find? Modern cargo pants continue to be both a fashion and functional item. This version from Brooks Brothers has a sleek, updated look with a slimmer leg made of a textured fabric that has a touch of stretch for style and comfort. It makes them just right for the office and the weekend. The pale grey color is “the” neutral this Spring.
Wear it with: The light grey color gives these cargos a much more polished look than your typical olive and khaki versions, so you can wear it with a white button up, and even a blazer. They are still cargo pants though, so a simple t-shirt or pullover sweater and stylish sneakers look great, too.
Fit Tip: These pants are part of Brooks Brothers Red Fleece collection so they are more contemporary and slim in fit than typical Brooks Brothers pieces – but still not overly trim, so you don’t need to worry that they’ll look too trendy. It’s just a solid, updated look.
Alternatives: For a truly contemporary look and feel, AG’s version has an elastic banded bottom to play up the athletic inspirations of the season.

#7 Denim.
Why is it a Find? A chambray or denim button up shirt is a must-have piece in a gent’s wardrobe, and that is as true as ever this sesason. Instead of your typically casual version, Peter Millar offers up a dressier take, with a spread collar, and beautiful 2-ply cotton denim that offers you truly endless versatility.
Wear it with: The rich, even color and contrast stitch detailing creates the yin and yang that gives this shirt such flexibility. You can wear it under a sport coat or sweater – while still working with all of your casual bottoms, too.
Fit Tip: It has an easy, modern fit that looks good on most every gent.
Alternatives: : If you prefer a contemporary fit, J.Crew’s slim fit button up is an ideal alternative.

#8 Muted Color.
Why is it a Find? Pastels like soft blue and pale pink are always popular once the weather warms up, but there is also a new trend of muting bolder colors for a really masculine take on Spring color. Billy Reid’s fresh salmon red color is one of our favorite interpretations, taking a deep red and making it completely appropriate for the Spring weather. The classic sweatshirt details mix with the rich textured cotton fabric to create a statement sweater that you can wear to the office and to meet up with friends at your favorite local watering hole.
Wear it with: The softer shade of red gives this sweater adaptability so you can wear it with khakis, jeans or cotton pants in any shade of neutral from grey to navy blue. The casual details make it easy to layer over a t-shirt, while the high-quality cotton makes it luxe enough to wear over a pattern button-up, too.
Fit Tip: The fit is modern and great-looking on most every gent.
Alternatives: Peter Millar’s awesome pop of pink in a cotton/cashmere v-neck is a great alternative for a polished office look.

#9 Core T-shirt.
Why is it a Find? Every gent needs to make sure their t-shirt wardrobe is fully stocked up heading into Spring. This heathered grey pencil striped t-shirt from J. Crew will add the latest look of stripes to your wardrobe. The cotton jaspe fabric is so soft and comfortable, and will hold up to many, many washes.
Wear it with: You know, your basic t-shirts look great with all your broken-in jeans, shorts and casual bottoms. It’s great as a layering piece under a solid button up, cardigan, or sweatshirt, too.
Fit Tip: The traditional J.Crew fit which is modern but good for most gents, so you can go with your regular size. For an easier fit, size up.
Alternatives: It is also offered in a heathered navy color combination through the ‘shop it’ button, and they’re both worth having in your rotation.

#10 Lighter Wash Jeans.
Why is it a Find? Lighter colors, particularly pastels, are a great reason to get a new pair of jeans this season. Now, gents, we understand that traditional pastels, like pink, might feel a little out of your comfort zone. This fresh sage green color is done is a cool resin rinse that is so masculine and subtle. Joe’s Jeans adds a touch of whiskering at the knees for subtle attitude that can be easily dressed up or down.
Wear it with: This color is the perfect foil for a white top, so wear it with a white washed oxford button up shirt, t-shirt or sweater. Heathered grey and navy look great, too. And gents, if you’re worried about what shoes to wear – a medium color brown or broken-in pair of black oxfords will dress them up, while a great pair of street style sneakers complete the casual vibe with ease.
Fit Tip: The Brixton fit is Joe’s most popular. It is modern with a narrower straight leg and plenty of waist, seat and thigh room for most gents.
Alternatives: For the contemporary fit gent, who likes a trimmer look, Joe’s offers some great soft colors in their Slim Fit model.

#11 Timeless Sport Shirt.
Why is it a Find? This button up shirt from Peter Millar takes a gent’s basic blue shirt up a notch, using a rich blue color and modern micro dot pattern. Simply put, it’s a perfect shirt for the office or a night out.
Wear it with: Since the pattern is small and subtle, treat it like any solid blue shirt and wear it with sport coats and sweaters, or on its own with flat front twill pants and dark wash jeans.
Fit Tip: The fit is an easy modern fit that won’t get blousy when tucked in, but isn’t too trim.
Alternatives: For a contemporary fit guy, this Hugo Boss micro dot shirt is just right.

#12 Bold Color.
Why is it a Find? Bold, saturated colors are refreshing for gents and work really well with white and the pale neutrals of the season. The bright ocean blue silk and cotton Peter Millar sweater perfectly captures the upbeat feel.
Wear it with: Tone it down for the office with tan khakis and a white button down collar shirt. Pairing it with dark jeans and a white t-shirt makes for great weekend outfit. And really, it looks awesome with anything white…pants, shorts, or over your favorite white button up.
Fit Tip: It is a modern fit that easily layers over a button down or t-shirt without looking too trim.
Alternatives: This sweater is available in an assortment of great colors through the ‘shop it’ button. For a contemporary and trim fit, UNIQLO’s cotton/cashmere v-neck is a perfect shade of strong orange.

#13 Weekend Essential.
Why is it a Find? What’s not to like about getting TWO pullovers for the price of one? This Tommy Bahama quilted zip neck is shown here with the black side showing, and click through the ‘shop it’ button to check out the awesome heather grey side. You’ll see each side has contrast trim, using micro suede for a more upscale feel.
Wear it with: Throw this on with any of your weekend favorites.
Fit Tip: Tommy Bahama’s fit is made for every true gent – relaxed and easy for true comfort.
Alternatives: It is also offered in a smoke grey heather color that reverses to an off white through the ‘shop it’ button that highlights the paler colors of the season.

#14 Joggers.
Why is it a Find? If you haven’t gotten on board with the whole athleisure trend yet – or you’re already a fan – these J.Crew joggers work for the novice and the expert. They take your weekend sweats to modern streetwear, by adding details usually found in your favorite casual pants, like front patch pockets and a buttoned back pocket. Contrast taping detail and an outside drawstring complete the stylishly casual look.
Wear it with: The great thing about joggers is that you can wear them with t-shirts, like you would any pair of sweats. But they can also be worn with casual button up shirts and sweaters, too. In the truly warm months, you can throw on your flip flops, but any cool pair of sneakers will always look good – from simple, white Converse to a colorful pair of Nike’s.
Fit Tip: The cut is J.Crew’s typically modern fit, and not meant to be too over-sized or relaxed. Size up if you prefer an easier fit, but we suggest going with your normal size to get the right jogger look.
Alternatives: They are also available in a great dark navy color through the ‘shop it’ button.

#15 Weekend Sweatshirt.
Why is it a Find? Gents are always looking for a comfortable and easy to wear weekend top. Playing on the athleisure trend, UNIQLO’s all cotton color block sweatshirt solves all your problems with an up-to-date look that is far more interesting and current than the old football logo'ed shirt you are probably wearing. It is pre-washed to give it a vintage look and the heather grey color mix steps it up from “couch only” attire.
Wear it with: Wear it with jeans, joggers, or shorts…anything casual, in any color, will be a no-brainer.
Fit Tip: The fit is contemporary, not meant to be too over-sized. It is available sizes XS - 3XL so there is a size to fit every gent. If you like your sweatshirts more relaxed in fit, size up.
Alternatives: It is also available in an equally versatile navy color block combination through the ‘shop it’ button.

#16 Sneakers.
Why is it a Find? Hi-top sneakers that can be worn not only on the weekends, but also to a casual office and out on evenings, is an increasingly popular option for gents – continuing to play into that athleisure trend we’ve been talking about. These navy leather hi-tops from New Balance, for J.Crew, are way too nice to wear to the gym. The clean lines give them such a polished feel, you almost forget they’re sneakers – but your comfy feet will remind you.
Wear it with: The contrast white rubber sole and smart navy colored leather work with dark wash jeans, and even those twill pants that are so often an office staple. Of course, on a truly casual day, they’re easy with your favorite broken-in jeans and new joggers, too.
Tip: Keep your sneakers clean and protected with this spray from Jason Markk.

#17 All-Weather Spring Jacket.
Why is it a Find? This dark navy, waxed cotton, anorak will keep you dry and comfortable throughout the wet and chilly Spring season. The epaulettes, snap flap-and-zip pockets, and attached hood provide timeless style and all-purpose function. From Barbour, they developed waxed cotton fabric over 120 years ago and still make the finest all weather jackets. This will hold up for years and wears to come, worth every penny.
Wear it with: The length is just long enough to go over a sport coat for the work week and is easy over jeans and a sweater on the weekend, so you’ll always be able to throw it on when they skies turn grey.
Fit Tip: The fit is modern and a great fit on most every gent.
Alternatives: Brooks Brothers’ water resistant bonded cotton twill jacket offers a similar look in a more relaxed, gentleman’s fit.

#18 Slip-on Shoes.
Why is it a Find? Slip-ons stay strong this upcoming season, and what’s not to like about that? Easy to put on when you’re running out the door, these canvas Timberlands have a clean, timeless look that is right for the season. Besides the good looking contrast white sole, they are made with an all-important odor-wicking OrthoLite footbed. Gents, you know what a savior that can be when you’re not wearing socks.
Wear it with: Wear them with jeans, shorts and any casual cotton or linen pants.
Fit Tip: As Nordstrom notes through the ‘shop it’ button, we’ve found they run a bit large. If you are between sizes, size down.
Alternatives: The “bungee cord” grey color we’re featuring here is a perfect neutral, working with greys, tans, and blues (not to mention, any pops of color). But there are 3 other neutrals through the ‘shop it’ button that are just as good-looking.

#19 Desk-to-Dinner Coat.
Why is it a Find? A trench coat for Spring is a must-have. The shorter length of this one from Brooks Brothers pairs with the otherwise classic styling for a good-looking and functional must-have. It’s made of lighter weight Italian cotton fabric that is water resistant, with zip and button front will keep you dry in an unexpected downpour.
Wear it with: The khaki color is timeless and a true neutral. The length is long enough to wear over your suits and sport coats for the workday, and with all your dressier casual outfits on evenings and weekends.
Fit Tip: It is cut in Brooks Brothers’ traditionally relaxed, gentleman's fit.
Alternatives: Hugo Boss offers a trimmer, contemporary fit for a sleeker version that is equally modern.

#20 Briefcase.
Why is it a Find? Update your briefcase with this sporty and seriously durable version from Tumi. The size, industrial look and functionality are spot-on. The ballistic nylon is basically indestructible, just like any good Tumi suitcase. The blue fabric with the brown leather trim is a refreshing alternative to a gent’s standard black bag and gives it a lighter feel for the Spring season – though completely appropriate all year round.
Wear it with: While more casual in attitude, feel confident bringing it to all your important business meetings.
Fit Tip: The more compact size makes it easy if you're often on the move, but it is still has plenty of room for a 13” laptop in a padded compartment. It even has a specially designed compartment for a Kindle or IPad. All your essentials are covered.
Alternatives: If you just have too much stuff to haul, take a look at Tumi’s roomier alternative.