Men's Capsule Wardrobe: T-Shirts, Casual Shirts & Trousers
A practical men's wardrobe adapted to your climate needs only a handful of well-chosen pieces: several breathable cotton tees, two or three polos, a few casual shirts, two pairs of chinos and one or two pairs of cotton trousers or jeans. Choose medium-weight cotton, neutral colours and a fit that allows movement in the heat.
Last reviewed: 27 October 2026
A starter capsule
| Item | How many | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Plain crew-neck t-shirts | 4–6 | Combed cotton, around 160–200 GSM, neutral colours |
| Polo shirts | 2–3 | Piqué cotton, firm collar that doesn't curl |
| Casual shirts | 2–3 | Oxford or cotton poplin; linen blends for summer |
| Chinos | 2 | Cotton with a little stretch, khaki and navy |
| Trousers / jeans | 1–2 | Mid-weight denim or cotton twill |
| Shorts | 1–2 | For home and gym |
T-shirts and polos that last
- Check fabric weight (GSM). Very thin tees lose shape quickly; see our GSM guide.
- Look for ribbed collars with even stitching that lies flat.
- Pre-shrunk or 'bio-washed' cotton shrinks less.
- Polo collars should be firm; flat-knit collars curl after a few washes.
Getting the fit right online
- 1
Measure chest
Lay a well-fitting shirt flat and measure armpit to armpit; double it for chest circumference.
- 2
Measure length
From the highest point of the shoulder to the hem.
- 3
Check trouser rise and inseam
Waist size alone isn't enough; rise affects comfort.
- 4
Compare with the chart
Size charts vary between brands; local and international sizing can differ.
Care that extends life
- Wash inside out in cool water to protect colours.
- Avoid hanging heavy knits; fold them.
- Dry in shade; strong sun fades dark colours quickly.
- Iron at the temperature on the label, especially for blends.
Frequently asked questions
Cotton or polyester blend for summer?
Cotton breathes better and feels cooler. Blends dry faster and wrinkle less, which suits travel and sport.
How many shirts do I really need?
Enough to cover a week between washes. Fewer, better pieces usually outlast many cheap ones.
Want to judge t-shirt quality from a listing?
Read the GSM guide