If you’ve a taste for the finer things, you’ve come to the right place.
But we’re not talking unattainable luxury like an archive Hermes Birkin or a Rolex which probably costs more than your house deposit.
Instead, we’re talking refined versions of wardrobe essentials. It could be a pair of penny loafers handcrafted by Italy artisans, or a t-shirt that’s made using a super-fine, ultra-soft cotton – either way, it’s the supercharged takes on everyday pieces which will make you feel good every time you pluck them from the wardrobe and slip them on.
Sure, they’re a little more expensive, but they’re worth the cost. Not only will they feel good, but they’ll last for much longer too. When you’re prepared to invest a little more in quality textiles and craftsmanship, the pieces you buy tend to hold their shape and colour for longer, rather than looking worse for wear after a few spin cycles - think bobbly jumpers, misshapen jeans, shrunken t-shirts, and so on. They also tend to be more thoughtfully designed using finer finishing details, be it a split hem, a boxy fit or elegant mother of pearl buttons.
When you’re shopping online, though, it can be hard to discern which pieces actually tick the boxes versus those that look the part in well-lit photos but don’t hit the mark when you’ve got them in your hands.
How to tell the difference? When you’re browsing, take a moment to check out each brand’s manufacturing process and textile sourcing to ensure you’re buying quality. Generally speaking, it’s good to look out for natural fibres like cotton, wool or leather which look better, feel nicer against the skin and will fare much better in the long run.
Or, you could use our handy cheat code below to find brands and pieces that you can trust every time.
Happy shopping!
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David Gandy Ultimate Crew Tee
There’s a lot to be said for a quality T-shirt. The fabric’s better, the fit is next level and it will retain its shape and colour for much longer than something second rate.
Enter: David Gandy’s Ultimate tee, which ticks all of these boxes, and then some. The only downside? You’ll want all eight colours.
Buy now £38.00, David Gandy
Wax London Jeans
Can you think of a pair of trousers that are more vital to a healthy wardrobe than a great pair of jeans? Wax London’s selection is one of the best, with straight, loose and slim fit options, all of which are made using top-tier organic cotton denim.
Price £110 - £120
Buy now, Wax London
Collars & Co The Maranello Contrast Collar Polo Navy
A navy polo neck is a must-have. Whether you opt for a classic cotton piqué or a luxury knitted take, like this one by Collars & Co, they’re easy to wear with denim, trousers or even shorts when summer hits. An easy win across the seasons.
Buy now £98.00, Collars & Co
JAK Royal Hi White Sneakers
High tops are nothing new (did someone say Converse All Stars?), but why not give your basketball-coded canvas a smarter upgrade with this leather design by JAK? They’re a great alternative to a court shoe in the colder months and the triple white leather is just as versatile. No wonder it’s one of the brand’s best-selling styles.
Buy now £210.00, JAK
London Sock Company Simply Sartorial Socks
A man’s choice of sock says rather a lot. White sport socks with trainers work for casual settings, while formal events call for black dress socks with smart shoes, and novelty socks are always a firm no. But, for day-to-day wear, our number one pick would always be a simple ribbed design – and The London Sock Co. has one of the best colour selections on the market.
Buy now £14.00, London Sock Company
CLAE Bradley Sneakers
Though court shoes are particularly popular right now, it’s a silhouette that’s been around for years - for good reason. They work with all types of trousers and, if you go for plain white or black, they’re easy to pair with just about anything. CLAE’s Bradley fits the bill perfectly.
Buy now £140.00, CLAE
Meller Kessie Sunglasses
It’s not easy finding great sunglasses for an affordable price – until you’ve heard of Meller, that is. The Spanish eyewear label has a selection of on-trend and timeless styles, and this time, we’re going for the latter.
My tip? Never buy them full price because there’s nearly always a two-for-one offer available.
Buy now £49.00, Meller
Void Watches V03D Watch
When you’re shopping for watches, it’s best to go for designs you can see yourself wearing, ahem, time and again.
I’m talking black, brown or metal straps, silver or gold hardware, a white or black face and a low-profile silhouette that could fit under a shirt cuff. Void Watches’ V03D is the perfect fit.
Buy now £166.25, Void Watches
London Sock Company Simply Sartorial Socks
A man’s choice of sock says rather a lot. White sport socks with trainers work for casual settings, while formal events call for black dress socks with smart shoes, and novelty socks are always a firm no. But, for day-to-day wear, our number one pick would always be a simple ribbed design – and The London Sock Co. has one of the best colour selections on the market.
Buy now £14.00, London Sock Company
Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekend Bag
For classic luggage, Carl Friedrik’s your best bet. From suitcases to backpacks and crossbodies, the London-based label offers minimal takes across all categories so you’re covered no matter what your preference. Our favourite is the leather Palissy Weekend Bag – but, as a general rule, it’s always best to avoid tan and go for darker hues like black or chocolate.
Buy now £745.00, Carl Friedrik
Steele & Borough The Weekender Bag
For luxurious holdalls, it’s Steele & Borough you need on your radar. Our top pick? The monochrome Weekender with leather details and a water-repellant canvas body. Even the zips are monogrammed with the brand’s logo for an extra elevated flourish.
Buy now £130.00, Steele & Borough
Roderer RFID Blocking Wallet
Though it doesn’t look like it, this leather wallet boasts the same RFID and NFC communication blocker as an aluminium card holder, meaning your bank cards can’t be hacked by unscrupulous passers-by. Instead, it contains the metal case inside to deliver a sleeker and elegant finish without compromising privacy protection.
Buy now £65.00, Roderer
The Resort Co Swim Shorts
If you’ve seen the most recent season of The White Lotus (and at this point, who hasn’t?), you’re bound to have tailored swim shorts on your wishlist.
Though the pair worn by Patrick Schwarzenegger in the series are by Oliver Cheshire’s brand, Che, The Resort Co offer a great alternative. You can choose from block colours, stripes or patterns, all in the brand’s signature tailored shape.
Buy now £156.00, The Resort Co
Myrqvist Solvik Black Calf
When it comes to sandals, few styles beat a classic leather criss-cross. Our favourite this season is by Scandi label Myrqvist. From the full-grain calf leather to the ergonomically moulded cork footbed, these offer equal parts comfort and style. A win-win.
Buy now £169.00, Myrqvist
