27 Classic, No-Nonsense Clothing Pieces

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A pair of Levi's you might just mistake for your old, broken-in favorites from the very first wear. They're loose but not baggy, with a straight leg that hits just right over your shoes. The wash is perfectly faded, and the denim has that rigid, no-stretch feel that actually gets better over time. Just easy, everyday jeans with zero fuss.
Promising review: "This is the real deal. I wear these for line dancing. Nice comfortable fit. True to size!" —RopeManGet them from Amazon for $59.99 (available in sizes 28 x 30–44 x 36 and eight washes).
A Lacoste polo that proves classics never go out of style. Forever the blueprint, this one is made with a breathable piqué cotton, a sharp collar, and finished off with that unmistakable crocodile. It's the kind of shirt that works just as well at a backyard BBQ as it does under a blazer.
Promising review: "I love the Lacoste men's short-sleeved pique polo shirt. The fabric is soft and feels great. That said, the shirt adheres to more 'European-style' sizing, so if you're between sizes, I would order a larger size. Also, the shirt shrinks in the dryer, so either air-dry or order a larger size to account for shrinkage." —Geoffrey C. TodebushGet it from Amazon for $98 (available in sizes XXS–4XL and 30 colors).
A pack of heavyweight tees made to feel like they've already lived a long, good life right out of the bag. Soft washed and garment dyed, they're giving that perfectly broken-in feel from day one. AKA the kind of shirt you'll end up buying in several because one just won't be enough.
Promising review: "It is hard to find good T-shirts. These are thicker cotton than the big-name brands, and they seem tough. I like the colors, which look a little faded, so they don't look brand new or too bright." —Amazon CustomerGet a two-pack from Amazon for $16.30 (available in sizes S–4XL and 45 colors).
Or, a Buck Mason ToughKnit tee that feels like your favorite vintage find but holds up like a modern-day workhorse. Heavyweight, structured, and made at their own knitting mills in Mohnton, Pennsylvania, this tee doesn't just look good — it's built with real intention. It's the kind of piece you'll wear on repeat, not just because it's reliable, but because it quietly flexes that you know your stuff.
Get it from Buck Mason for $55 (available in sizes XS–XXL and four colors).
A pair of Wrangler carpenter jean shorts with a hammer loop and pockets for days, because sometimes more is more. These are the bottoms you reach for when you want room to move, have stuff to carry, and don't need any unnecessary nonsense. Durable, roomy, and ready for work (or not), they're a reminder that fashion CAN be functional.
Promising review: "The material is durable and legit denim, large pockets, fits to size, and quite comfortable. The price is reasonable for the quality. Good jorts!" —Andi HokansonGet it from Amazon for $27.05+ (available in sizes 30–54 and five colors/washes).
A Flint and Tinder waxed trucker jacket made famous by Pedro Pascal's character in The Last of Us. Flannel-lined, weather-resistant, and made in the USA, this cult-favorite jacket is built to age like fine whiskey and tell a story with every wear. Throw it on, and suddenly you're not just walking to the store — you're surviving in style.
Promising review: "I've wanted one of these jackets for a long time and was not disappointed. Besides looking rugged and super cool, the fit is perfect, and the inside feels like a warm blanket. I take it out of the coat closet with reverence each time I wear it." —Kenneth G.Get it from Huckberry for $298 (available in sizes XS–3XL, including tall sizes, and four colors).
Or a Carhartt Detroit jacket that's as iconic as it is indestructible. It's like workwear with main character energy. With its rugged duck canvas, blanket lining, and corduroy collar, this jacket has been worn by everyone from actual tradespeople to Hollywood's finest. It's warm, it's tough, and it breaks in beautifully with age.
Promising review: "I have purchased this same Detroit jacket from Carhartt several times over the years because it is a really tough work jacket with a warm blanket lining, and it's a nice jacket length for working in the shop or for driving. The heavy canvas material cuts the wind nicely on cold days. I love this coat. You can't beat it for the price, and it is one tough work jacket." —MJ SmithGet it from Amazon for $109.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and two colors).
A no-frills work shirt built to last and somehow always look good. It's the kind of shirt that works just as well on a job site as it does layered over a tee on the weekend. Simple, sturdy, and surprisingly versatile.
Promising review: "Dickies' quality is always impressive. My current couple of utility shirts have lasted around 12 years before the material started to run thin. I fully expect the new ones I just ordered to last just as long." —A_AndGet it from Amazon for $18.74+ (available in sizes S–5X, including big and tall sizes, and 14 colors)
A rugby shirt equal parts heritage and hangout. This Lands' End classic has that sturdy, old-school feel with its thick cotton elbow patches, and a collar that actually stays put. It's relaxed but not sloppy, and the kind of shirt that makes you look like you know what you're doing, even if you're just grabbing coffee.
Get it from Amazon for $89.95 (available in sizes S–M and two colors).
A lightweight Oxford that's breezy enough for the boat, but ~buttoned-up~ enough for the boardroom. If you're looking for one shirt that can do it all this summer — this is it.
TLDR: This is the kind of shirt that ends up in heavy rotation all summer long. It's lightweight enough to wear on a boat with swim trunks (as in it almost feels like linen), but structured enough to throw on with a blazer for a wedding or graduation (some serious range). I've worn it with jeans, dress pants, shorts — you name it. The fabric has a subtle texture that almost feels like linen, which gives it a laid-back, breezy vibe without sacrificing polish. Honestly, Buck Mason makes the kind of clothes I want my whole wardrobe to feel like: unfussy, well-made, and timeless. This shirt is exactly the kind of piece that this roundup is allllll about.Get it from Buck Mason for $138 (available in sizes S–XL and five colors).
A Dickies Eisenhower jacket that looks like it could handle a minor apocalypse — or just your morning commute. Inspired by military workwear and made to last longer than most trends (and maybe some relationships), this timeless layer brings no-nonsense vibes to whatever you're doing, whether that's fixing stuff or just looking like you could.
Promising review: "I recently picked up this Dickies Eisenhower jacket for the coming autumn season, and I really like it. It's made of a sturdy polyester and cotton blend, which makes it lightweight but heavy enough for somewhat bad weather. I would suggest that if you'd like to get a more slim, tapered look, size down. This may also help with the length of the sleeves... this work jacket is business up front and a party in the back." —Phill the Thrill Get it from Amazon for $56+ (available in sizes S–5X, including tall sizes, and 11 colors).
A Hanes hoodie you won't think twice about throwing on, whether you're lounging at home, running errands, or layering up for a chilly morning walk.
Promising review: "Quality is very good, as is the price. After buying one and liking it so much, I bought another in a different color. Very comfortable. To maintain size, I never put it in the dryer after washing. Just air-dry." —Alvan M.Get it from Amazon for $14.05+ (available in sizes S–5XL and 32 colors).
A Ben Davis heavyweight tee that'll have you well on your way to *building* a better wardrobe. Boxy, durable, and thicker than your average ego boost, this tee doesn't cling, sag, or quit. It's a staple for folks who care more about quality than flash, and who know a good pocket tee when they see one.
Promising review: "As many reviewers have commented, the fit is generous and consistent with American workwear. Otherwise, this is a durable heavyweight tee that will stand up to rigorous situations. Perfect for a day on a construction site or in a commercial kitchen, and everything in between!" —Tim Just TimGet it from Amazon for $15.24+ (available in sizes S–3XL and nine colors).
A Lee loose-fit chore coat guaranteed to have you looking like you inherited it from your mysteriously cool and handy uncle. With a roomy cut, reinforced construction, and enough pockets to skip the bag, this jacket is made for layering, working, and generally looking put-together without trying. Bonus points if it gets a little beat up — that's when it really shines.
Promising review: "This is a sturdy denim coat with outdoor style. The fit is generous but not sloppy. I expect this coat will live to tell great tales of fun times." —C&LWGet it from Amazon for $59.75 (available in sizes S–XXL).
A Brooks Brothers button-down shirt that's been doing the job since 1900 and never quit. It's crisp but not stiff, classic without being boring, and works just as well with jeans as it does under a blazer. A true wardrobe workhorse that earns its keep.
Promising review: "What is there not to like about a superior product? Reliable and classic. Will buy more." —David C. RasmussenGet it from Amazon for $75.52 (available in sizes XS–3XL).
A Filson waffle-knit thermal so good, I literally wrote a love letter to it. Made from Peruvian cotton and designed to hold its shape (and warmth) wear after wear, this is the kind of heavyweight base layer that makes you want to cancel plans just to stay cozy. It's an investment, sure — but one that pays dividends.
I wore this thermal alllll winter long, and it's now a staple in my wardrobe. You can read my full review of the Filson Waffle Knit Henley here.Promising review: "Tough, warm shirt. Great utilitarian piece that can be worn for work or a casual night on the town. Excellent for layering or wearing alone on cooler days, and the color is awesome. Has held up well after several washes and seems to only be getting better with time. 10/10." —Juan C. Get it from Filson for $115 (available in sizes XS–3XL and two colors).
A black linen button-down here to check every box: lightweight, breathable, and has that relaxed-but-refined vibe that just works. Heading to the farmers market or out for dinner, this is a closet staple that's as easy to wear as it is to rewear.
This shirt punches way above its price point. The linen feels high-end, the cut is spot on, and I've worn it with everything from shorts and sandals to trousers and loafers. It's the kind of piece that makes getting dressed in the summer a whole lot easier, IMO.Get it from Gap for $62 (available in sizes XS–XL, including tall sizes, and 14 colors).
A pair of khakis that work as hard as you do. These Dockers are crisp enough for the office but comfy enough for the weekend. The stretch cotton moves with you, and the wrinkle-resistant finish means you look sharp all day.
Promising review: "Why should you buy these over other pants? This particular model from Dockers is above all others. It holds its creases well, and it is quite wrinkle resistant, and comes out of a normal load of laundry ready to wear. The weight of the fabric makes them perfect for fall and winter, keeping you warm. Past that, after wearing these for a while, they show no signs of wear at the seams. They drape well, and I am quite satisfied." —Brennan Bailey Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes S–4XL).
A pair of linen pants you might think are pajamas because of how comfortable they are, but they'll still make you look like you made an effort. The slim, straight leg keeps things sharp, while the drawstring waist means you can skip the belt. They're the kind of pants you'll wear to brunch, the beach, and everywhere in between.
Promising review: "These linen drawstring pants from Faherty are perfect for what I need. A casual, yet stylish pant with no surprises... just what I wanted. The fit is good and the color is just enough olive to be neutral and work with many other things." —Mark FGet them from Faherty for $168 (available in sizes XS–XXL and three colors).
A matching J.Crew suit set in Japanese denim that proves rugged and refined aren't mutually exclusive. With its relaxed fit and washed denim fabric, this jacket-and-pants combo lets you show up polished without pretending you're someone who likes to wear traditional suits.
I just picked this up myself to wear to a wedding in Northern Michigan this summer. The dress code is semi-formal to formal, and I'm going to dress this up with a nice shirt and tie and some black derbies. I'm equally as excited to get use of the jacket and pants on their own, too. Get the pants from J.Crew for $248 (available in sizes 28x30–38x32) and the blazer for $498 (available in sizes 34S–46L).
A rain jacket you won't have to worry about taking up too much space (it folds down neatly into a pocket), but will also absolutely save your day when the weather turns. Through downpours, muggy hikes or city commutes, this thing will have your back time after time.
Promising review: "I've owned this jacket for close to 10 years, and really tested it in different weather conditions. It is so good that I just bought the same jacket as the inner lining that makes it waterproof was failing (after 10 years, I feel this is pretty acceptable). It is light, comfortable, the hood packs fold and pack easily, and the hand/cuff area is easy to adjust to keep water cold out. Very well designed." —Agustin CRGet it from Amazon for $91.75 (available in sizes S–4XL, including big and tall sizes, and 11 colors)
A swim trunk sharp enough for the beach and sturdy enough for your weekend errands. These Bather trunks are made from quick-dry recycled nylon with a soft mesh lining and a 5.5-inch inseam that hits just right.
Get it from Bather for $90 (available in sizes XS–XXL and 21 colors).
A Pendleton wool shirt that's been cool since the Beach Boys wore it (and still is). It's warm but breathable, structured but easygoing, and the kind of layer you'll keep reaching for, from chilly nights on the beach this summer to all the fall activities come September.
Promising review: "This is a high-quality, well-designed, and manufactured shirt. It runs somewhat large, but overall, the fit, comfort, and quality are outstanding. Great shirt that always looks great. No shrinkage after cold wash and low-temperature dryer. Highly. recommend." —PesachGet it from Amazon for $169 (available in sizes XS–L and five colors).
A pair of boxer-style shorts (with pockets) that are completely acceptable to wear out of the house on their own. These unisex shorts somehow walk the line between laid-back and pulled-together, but embody comfy-cool style for days.
I found these at the One DNA shop in Nickel's Arcade in Ann Arbor, MI (shoutout to my alma mater, go blue!) and honestly haven't stopped wearing them since. They're playful and a little cheeky, sure, but also surprisingly timeless and wildly practical. The pockets alone make them a game changer. I wear them lounging around the house, running errands, grabbing coffee—basically anytime I want to feel comfy and put-together. They're the kind of piece you don't expect to reach for as often as you do… until you do.Get them from One DNA for $59 (available in sizes XS–XL and
A pair of watercolor camo pants made with a relaxed fit and double-knee construction, blurring the line between workwear and wearable art. Whether you're actually in a studio or out camping in the wilderness, they're proof that function and flair can absolutely coexist.
Promising review: "The fit and finish on these pants are awesome, and they are just flat-out well made! I especially love the integrated belt. I've owned a lot of nice pants, but these just seem to be a step above the rest." —Kaden O.Get it from Grease Point Workwear for $299 (available in sizes XS–XXL).
A zip-off pant that'll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about zip-off pants. Aaron Levine's aren't your middle school hiking pants — they're sharp, grown-up, and built with serious attention to detail. The fabric is luxe and the design is just as thoughtful whether you're wearing them full-length or zipped into shorts. A rare find indeed.
Get them from Aaron Levine for $448 (available in sizes 30–38 and two colors).
An Alex Mill cotton-linen popover with a perfectly rumpled texture and half-button silhouette here to give you some polish without sacrificing comfort. It's ready to be your spring-to-fall uniform — especially when paired with beat-up jeans and zero pretense.
Get it from Alex Mill for $165 (available in sizes XS–XXL and three colors)