THE JOURNAL
3 MINUTE READ
The New Look: Five Essentials That Every Man Should Own In 2022
Words by Emma Pradella
Photography by Mr Jack Johnstone
Styling by Ms Otter Hatchett
15 March 2022
What does essential mean today? It’s a question we’ve asked ourselves regularly over the past few years and the answer has, unsurprisingly, changed dramatically. If sweats and loungewear were a must for working from home, as we cautiously step out of what seems like a never-ending pandemic, the joy of dressing up again (or just dressing) has reentered our lives. Changing times are inevitably reflected in our wardrobes and these are changing times indeed. There are certain items, however, that transcend trends and seasons, exceptionally versatile items that truly earn the name “essential” and are some of the wisest investments a man can make. Here, we’ve constructed an outfit from five of them.
01.
The denim jacket
No discussion about contemporary menswear would be complete without the workwear-turned-casualwear staple par excellence, the denim jacket. The first denim jacket dates back to the early 1900s (and was designed by denim specialist Mr Levi Strauss). This modern reincarnation by A.P.C. captures the garment’s hard-wearing spirit.
03.
The proper jeans
From slim-fit to wide-leg, from selvedge to open-end and ring-spun, a good pair of jeans belongs in every man’s wardrobe. And since you’re bound to wear yours often, it’s worth investing in a pair that will last, such as these. Constructed in the Japanese plant Betty Smith, it takes seven workers and 10 sewing machines to make each pair of Mr P. jeans.
04.
The classic sunglasses
Choosing the right pair of sunglasses to suit your face shape can be a tricky business. There are so many aspects to consider, from the frame to the material and the lens, but there’s one tried-and-tested style that has garnered the title of “classic”’. Combining endlessly wearable aviator-style frames with a lightweight yet durable material and UV-protecting lenses, you can see why Ray-Ban’s Wayfarers never get old.
05.
The smart-casual loafers
For a shoe that was originally worn by Norwegian fishermen, the loafer has come a long way. First adopted on elite college campuses as a pillar of the mid-century Ivy Look before being elevated to the height of style with Gucci’s horsebit model in 1953, it remains a trend-defying classic. For a timeless take, you can’t beat Edward Green. Every shoe is made in Northampton following the same exacting craftsmanship standards that were put in place when the company was established in 1890.
