The Only Basics Brands You Need
The Only Basics Brands You Need
Fashion
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The Only Basics Brands You Need

The focus of the seven brands featured here is basics, but their execution is exceptional. They have achieved greatness with every foundational piece from the boxer to the white tee. Load up from one of them and you will soon find life getting a bit more comfortable…
Images: Merz B. Schwanen; @CDLP; @SunspelClothing

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

Merz B. Schwanen

You might know it for that white tee (the 215) from The Bear, but there’s more to this German label. Its history features a lost textile industry in the Swabian Alps, abandoned loopwheel machines, a defunct brand and an enthusiastic pair of German designers. You get the gist. Using only natural fabrics, it offers 11 takes on a crew-neck tee, as well as socks, sweaters, jackets, trousers and underwear for all your essential needs. If you’re still after Carmy’s tee, you need to work on your reaction time – it always goes quickly out of stock.

Visit MerzBSchwanen.com

@CDLP

CDLP

This Swedish brand has achieved the trifecta of being cool, eco-conscious and silkily comfortable. Recent collaborations with Jon Kortajarena, Robert Stilin and Grand Hôtel Stockholm have caught the eye, but its core products are unchanging. Tencel Lyocell is the defining fabric of CDLP – it’s a sustainable silk alternative made from wood pulp transformed into fibres. The result is high-quality, enduring and luxurious undergarments and clothing.   

Visit CDLP.com

Organic Basics

A Danish brand that does what it says on its elastic waistband. Dealing only in organic, recycled and plant-derived fabrics, it has built a range of foundational men’s clothing that spans t-shirts, boxers, briefs, tanks, sweatshirts, pants and socks. Plus, the prices aren’t astronomical when purchasing in bulk. 

Visit OrganicBasics.com

@sunspelclothing

Sunspel

If someone asks for a white t-shirt recommendation, it’s almost a cliché to suggest Sunspel. In this case, it’s a cliché for a good reason. The British brand has spent a century fine-tuning its lightweight crewneck. Premium minimalism also defines its chinos, overshirts, lambswool knitwear, socks, briefs and, of course, the Riviera polo once worn by Daniel Craig as 007 in Casino Royale. 

Visit Sunspel.com

Derek Rose

First famous for its pyjamas, Derek Rose has become an all-round powerhouse of underwear and nightwear. Take note of its cashmere sets – whether you go zip or non-zip hoodie, they exude the brand’s signature combination of panache and luxury.

Visit Derek-Rose.com

COS

If you are looking for basic menswear with a subtle infusion of current trends, COS is your spot. The Scandi brand’s range of tones, fabrics and styles makes it a reliable launchpad for elevating your personal style. But if you pop in for a new roster of white tees, don’t be alarmed if you walk out with a cuban shirt and a leather jacket under your arm as well.

Visit COS.com

Colorful Standard

If you feel like you need more than Colorful Standard’s 50 t-shirt colour options or 32 sock tones, it might be time to reconsider your priorities. Another basics brand whose name tells you a lot, it prioritises ethical production by manufacturing in Portugal and using planet-friendly dying methods.

Visit ColorfulStandard.com

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at [email protected].