The Raw Denim Path

Jeans is probably one of the most popular and yet most difficult to buy items of clothing in most people's wardrobe. After a sad period of time in the late 1990s - early 2000s where people went all ridiculous with their falling-to-pieces ripped and over-designed jeans (Rock & Republic: I am talking to you!), the raw denim trend was a welcoming change where jeans return to their basic roots.

I personally have many pairs of jeans but only a few of them get worn very often. My favourite is still the raw denim Nudie Slim Jim I purchased 2 years ago. They are of great quality Japanese denim and have soften over time as they get worn. Other than Nudie, I also have tried Dr. Denim, Cheap Monday, Naked and Famous but none has fitted me as nicely as Nudie does.

Whatever brand of raw denim you buy though, there are few key things to remember. I came across this guide here that would be of great help if you want to get the most out of your raw denim. Give it a try and whatever you do, try to hold off from washing in the first 6 months (I was able to exceeded 6 months before my first wash - Don't judge me!).

Photo courtesy of ssense.com

Classics Every Man Should Have

As a lot my friends are making the transition from the student to professional lifestyle, many have asked me about what to buy if they like to take that first step in upgrading their wardrobe. So if you are one of those people who like swap your Abercrombie/American Eagle polos and sweatshirts (no judgement - I used to wear them too) for a more professional and classic look, I got a simple solution to you.

Step 1: Print out this list below.

Step 2: Set a budget. This will dictate the brands and quality you will be looking at and buying. Remember you don't have to spend a lot of money right away. You can always upgrade these to ones of better quality and higher price points later.

Step 3: Know your SIZE. This might be the most important thing to watch out for. If you get the fit wrong, you might as well flush your money down the toilet.

Step 4: Buy EVERYTHING on this list unless you have them already.

You can also make slight modifications to better reflect your personal style and body shape as long as you know what you are doing. For example, I would probably go for slim fit jeans instead of straight legs, solid colour polos instead of stripe ones, etc.

Happy Shopping!

Photos courtesy of Details Men's Style Manual, Daniel Peres