Are you a man looking for easy style solutions? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. One of the quickest and most reliable methods of upgrading one’s wardrobe is by identifying the right brands and fashion labels.
With so many clothing options available on the market today, it can sometimes feel quite overwhelming when considering which ones are right for you.
After all, not all brands are created equal. Even visiting your local mall or shopping district, you’ll be struck with a multitude of questions, such as “is this brand’s clothing good quality for the price?” and “will this brand’s collection stand the test of time?”
It can be pretty confusing to evaluate various men’s clothing brands based on factors such as quality, price point, accessibility, and longevity.
Which is why we’ve compiled a simple, comprehensive list of 10 brands that’ll never steer you wrong – for just about every budget.
Whether you’re just looking to get some affordable, quality basics or some elevated pieces from somewhere reputable, look no further. Allow this list to serve as a fundamental guide for brands to look out for, especially if you’re just starting out your menswear journey, and ones you’ll be able to rely on for years to come.
#1: Uniqlo
You’d be hard-pressed to find a better source of quality basics at this price point. Largely intended for the budget-minded consumer, this japan-based retail giant is known for frequently solid collections that offer some serious bang for your buck.
Many have long praised their Uniqlo U Airism Tees as among the best tee-shirts you can find for around $20. They’re also known to keep up with trends – albeit in a subtle, tasteful manner.
Uniqlo often serves as an easy and accessible way to try out the latest silhouettes and fits at a competitive price. Trying to hop back on the cargo pant wagon? Unqilo makes it real simple – for under $50, too.
The retailer also often releases exciting clothing collaborations with some of the biggest pop culture powerhouses, frequently coming out with cool new graphic tees inspired by film, music, art, and more.
Don’t sleep on their heattech thermal wear for the cooler months, and be sure to check out their sock selection. They offer great deals and a brilliant variety of colors. All in all, let Uniqlo be one of your first stops for classic and basic clothing while shopping on a budget.
#2: J.Crew
Founded in 1947, J.Crew has long been a supplier of reliable clothing infused with timeless style – albeit often with a preppy twist.
However, despite their successful history, the famous “mall brand” retailer stumbled a bit in the 2010s, with somewhat stagnating styles and even filing for bankruptcy during 2020. But today, the brand has impressively reemerged as a menswear titan.
The last several years have seen J.Crew go back to their roots, referencing and drawing inspiration from their classic collections of decades past.
Many attribute their latest success to taking on Brendon Babenzien as their new creative director in 2021, and the brand is now a one-stop destination for quality basics such as chinos and oxford shirts – as well as an excellent selection of suiting options made from quality fabrics.
J.Crew’s style is inherently preppy, and its ivy style associations can be seen in many of their pieces. But they keep on trend, too, releasing popular items over recent years such as their “Giant Fit Chinos” (they’re big, but don’t be intimidated!) and branching out into roomier suiting options such as the Kenmare suit, a more relaxed fit compared to their iconic Ludlow suit.
With new, quality collections for every season, you can rely on J.Crew to keep you looking clean-cut and cool. A bonus tip – don’t miss out on their frequent sales events! You can snag some excellent deals on some truly solid stuff.
#3 Buck Mason
One of the newer brands on this list, don’t underestimate Buck Mason’s prowess on the men’s fashion scene. Founded in 2013, Buck Mason delivers uncompromised American style classics and terrific quality for the price.
Their pieces often lean into the look of american heritage and other workwear aesthetics – sometimes even with a western twist (the brand is from California, after all).
Many have praised their Japanese Loomstate Selvedge denim – especially their now-iconic “Full Saddle” jean. It serves as an excellent gateway into the world of selvedge denim and is essentially the perfect starter pack to all of your modern cowboy dreams.
Also hugely popular is the brand’s “Slub Classic Tee,” a well-constructed tee shirt with a subtle texture, flattering fit, and incredibly soft to the touch.
Don’t forget to pay attention to their other offerings, though. Buck Mason produces some absolutely dashing, rugged outerwear, as well as some of the coolest casual suits in the game.
#4: Todd Snyder
Despite being acquired by American Eagle in 2015, Todd Snyder has had a rich and impressive run in the men’s fashion world since its debut at Bergdof Goodman in 2011. The man behind the label himself, Todd Snyder, had previously worked with other clothing giants such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap, and J.Crew.
In fact, many have often described Todd Snyder as feeling somewhat evocative of J.Crew and Ralph Lauren classics – however with its own elevated, contemporary twist.
Todd Snyder offers a wide range of menswear pieces for just about every occasion. From rich, textured tailoring to comfortable shorts, delightful denim, and more, the quality of their collections is something to be admired. Many of their pieces go together almost effortlessly, making it even easier to build an outfit at one destination.
While certainly not the cheapest of the brands listed here, you get a lot for what you’re paying. Whether that’s some of the sleekest Irish linen trousers on the market, iconic sportswear courtesy of their ongoing collaboration with Champion, or the perfect knit polos for your next pool party – Todd Snyder packs a punch.
#5: Madewell
Okay, maybe this one is sort of considered cheating, seeing as the brand is owned by J.Crew – but we couldn’t leave it off the list.
Madewell produces some of the cleanest pieces with a somewhat laid-back vibe. Don’t miss out on their knitwear during the winter, but their spring and summer collections are oftentimes on a whole different level.
Their knit polos, camp collar shirts, and graphic tees are absolute must-haves for warmer climates, as are their workwear-inspired pants and their selection of shorts.
#6: Abercrombie & Fitch
You might be thinking, Wait, I know this one, but if you haven’t visited an A&F store in five years or so, you might be surprised at how different the brand is nowadays. Long gone are the dark, heavily-scented stores from your youth.
Now, their stores are pleasantly bright, so that you can actually see the price tags – and for what they’re offering, they’re not bad!
Abercrombie and Fitch has switched up their style quite a bit, too. Today, it says a lot less “surfer dude” and a lot more “classic style.” Some of their pieces even lean a bit into the much sought-after “old money aesthetic”, but at a much nicer price.
Hot tip: Don’t miss out on their beautifully embroidered shirts!
Their denim selection remains incredibly well-rounded, with a good fit for just about everyone. Currently, their “Loose Fit” has taken men’s fashion influencers by storm, and are some of the coolest jeans you can snag for under $100.
#7: Scott Fraser Collection
Scott Fraser Collection is a sartorial haven for those who appreciate heritage craftsmanship and classic men’s style. The Britain-based brand displays a unique fusion of vintage-inspired aesthetics and modern elements. It isn’t the most affordable – but the clothing articles themselves are of impeccable quality.
From finely tailored suits and shirts to rugged outerwear and accessories, Scott Fraser Collection exudes a distinct character that resonates with men who appreciate classic style.
Among their most popular mainstays are their Perforated Tank Tops and their brilliantly high-waisted, pleated trouser selection.
With its blend of heritage-inspired aesthetics, contemporary flair, and commitment to sustainability, Scott Fraser Collection is not just a brand; it’s a testament to the enduring allure of thoughtful, well-crafted menswear.
#8: Ralph Lauren
You probably don’t need us to tell you about Ralph Lauren. You know who he is. And likely, all about the brand. But we’d like to point you in the direction of the best labels within the men’s fashion powerhouse that is the Ralph Lauren brand.
Polo Ralph Lauren is arguably best known for, well, their polos. But there is so much more to this iconic label. For one, their outstanding tailoring. You’ll find some of the very best suiting options here, from classic worsted wool business suits to rich flannel wools, to fine linen sport coats, trousers, and more.
Another Ralph Lauren label worth noting is the western-inspired RRL, which offers pieces that replicate iconic American heritage clothing and rugged menswear from previous decades.
And for the very best of the best – there’s Ralph Lauren Purple Label. We’re not gonna sugarcoat it – this is damn near as expensive as it gets. But the quality and timeless style of this sub-label is a testament to Ralph Lauren’s mastery over menswear.
All in all, you can’t really go wrong with anything by Ralph.
#9: Spier and Mackay
Often touted as “the best value in menswear,” we might have to agree with this one. Few brands can compete with the quality-to-price ratio offered by online retailer Spier and Mackay.
Based on their superior understanding of quality fits, fabrics, and tailored garments, the brand is able to offer both a selection of fine ready to wear and made-to-order suits, sportcoats, trousers, and more.
They place an extra emphasis on using quality fabrics and materials, and while their styles are undeniably classic and contemporary, there’s a lot to like about what they have to offer.
For many, Spier and Mackay are a reliable source of high-waisted trousers featuring side-tab adjusters – a favorite of many menswear enthusiasts.
#10: Drake’s
This London-based brand has operated since 1977, and is something of a cult among many who are passionate about menswear and classic men’s style. One of the most expensive options on this list, Drake’s cannot be left out of the conversation due to their powerful presence on the menswear scene.
Often well-regarded for their selection of suits, sportscoats, and ties, Drake’s offers all of that – and then some. From top-notch chore coats, to some of the highest quality knitwear around, to perfect oxford shirts with an even more perfect collar roll, there’s almost no brand that can compete with Drake’s unmatched understanding of classic style.
Much of their collection often leans into ivy style, but they offer their fair share of workwear-adjacent items as well. Their denim is especially notable, with tasteful washes and quality, rugged construction.
If you have the budget for it – you won’t regret a purchase from Drake’s.
