All about Fashion Archives - Malebasics blog

5 Men’s Wardrobe Staples You Should Be Willing To Pay More For

Though we love a good bargain, there are a few clothing items that we believe all men should be willing to pay a bit more for. From a tailored suit to a quality pair of jeans, check out the 5 wardrobe staples we recommend men splurge on.

Jeans

High-quality denim can last years or even decades if cared for properly. Since jeans don’t require frequent washing, a good quality pair is built to last. Another reason to splurge on jeans? Denim is not a particularly forgiving fabric, meaning that it’s obvious when it’s low quality. Invest in a more expensive pair of jeans and you won’t regret it. A classic dark wash, straight cut style is our recommendation.

A Tailored Suit

All men should own at least one nice suit. Whether you wear them to work regularly or not, there comes a time in every man’s life when a suit is necessary. When this time comes, you’ll want to wear one that fits you well, which is why going to the nearest H&M isn’t an option. Instead, we advise you to invest in a quality suit that is tailored to your exact specifications. After all, there is nothing less attractive than an ill-fitting suit.

Winter Coat

If you live somewhere with cold winters, then you’ll likely wear a winter coat on a daily basis for several months on end. As such, this is an item you should be willing to pay more for. Plus, winter coats are one fashion item that are as functional as they are pretty. Therefore, if you splurge a little, you’ll likely be getting a coat that will keep you warm rather than something thin or flimsy that doesn’t offer any real protection against the elements. As something you’ll wear for a good chunk of the year, we recommend choosing a timeless style and colour, such as a grey or black wool peacoat.

Underwear

Given that underwear is something you wear on a daily basis, it’s surprising that few men invest in quality underwear. Sure, you can buy a 10-pack of briefs at a big box store for a nominal fee, but they’ll likely wear out in a matter of months. Whether they quickly develop holes, start to sag, or the fabric pills, the bottom line is they won’t last long. Quality men’s underwear on the other hand will not only be more durable but will look and feel great. Men’s underwear that is slightly more expensive (but still nowhere near breaking the bank) is typically made of thicker, softer fabric that offers far superior comfort and support than those of lesser quality.

Dress Shoes

A pair of men’s dress shoes will last you a very long time if cared for properly. While the cost of a new pair of leather Oxfords might seem like a lot of up front, when you consider how many inexpensive pairs you’d go through in the same amount of time, you’ll likely find that it’ll save you money in the long run. As this is an investment piece, we recommend choosing a classic colour that goes with everything, such as black or brown.

The Best Men’s Underwear Styles For Every Body Type

Wondering which underwear style is best for your body? You might be surprised by the results. Keep reading to discover the best men’s underwear styles for every body type, from those with athletic builds to slim men.

Briefs

Briefs are the ideal underwear style for those with muscular bodies, especially men with larger thighs. Typically boxer briefs or trunks don’t tend to work for men with bigger thighs because they’ll ride up. Briefs are also a great way to show off your body, which you may be particularly inclined to do if you’re muscular. Another body type briefs are perfect for is short men. Briefs allow you to show off more of your legs, making them appear longer. So if you’re looking to add a few extra inches to your physique, look no further than classic briefs.

Boxers

We’re going to work backwards for this one. Rather than telling you the body type best suited to boxers, we’re going to tell you which body type should avoid them: slim men. The looseness of boxers will only accentuate your thin body, and as such, we recommend a more snug-fitting pair of underwear like trunks or boxer briefs.

Further, if you have an athletic build but aren’t comfortable in briefs, then boxers are a great go-to. Unlike snug-fitting boxer briefs or trunks, a loose pair of boxers will be able to accommodate extra muscle in the thigh, without riding up. Boxers are also a great option for sleeping as they are extremely breathable.

As the loosest fitting style of underwear on this list, a pair of cotton boxers makes a great addition to your underwear drawer, no matter your body type, as they’re extremely comfortable and will keep you cool in the evening.

Boxer Briefs

Boxer briefs are the universal style that are compatible with pretty much any male body type, though they are particularly suited to taller men and men with larger posteriors. The higher waistband of many boxer brief styles is ideal for tall men who find other underwear styles too short or prone to slipping down. Boxer briefs are also well suited to men with large posteriors who find a classic pair of briefs doesn’t provide enough coverage in the rear.

Trunks

The ideal body for trunks is slim men. A hybrid between a brief and a boxer brief, the high-thigh fit is best for thinner men, as men with larger thighs will likely find these ride up when they walk. Plus, because of how snug this underwear style fits, slimmer men won’t have to deal with extra fabric bunching up and making them appear thinner.

6 Life Skills All Men Should Master

Having life skills is an important part of succeeding as an adult, and there are a few we feel all men should have once they’re grown up. From knowing how to cook a delicious meal to learning when to prioritize your mental health, check out 6 life skills all men should master.

How To Fix a Drink

We all know how to pour a beer or a glass or wine, but knowing how to make a cocktail (even a basic one) is a surefire way to impress your guests. You don’t need to know every cocktail under the sun, but having a handle on one or two will definitely serve you well (think a Moscow Mule, a Martini, or an Old Fashioned). Plus, being able to fix a drink isn’t solely about following a recipe, it also speaks to your ability to play the role of host.

How To Invest Your Money Wisely

Knowing how to invest your money is another skill all men should master, especially if they want to get the most out of their savings. Do some research into financial management to ensure you’re making the smartest decisions for your wallet. You may consider hiring a financial planner to help you. Having a good handle on your finances and understanding the basics of investing will only serve to grow your savings in the long run.

How To Properly Care For Your Underwear

This should go without saying, but unfortunately many men do not understand how to properly care for their underwear (or know when to throw it away). Ideally, men should purchase new underwear once a year and aim to have between 15 and 20 pairs in their underwear drawer at any given time. If underwear starts to sag, stretch, pill, or develop a hole, it should be tossed out. Further, when it comes to washing your undergarments, the most important consideration is the fabric. Cotton underwear can be washed and dried regularly, but those made of microfibre or delicate materials like lace or mesh should be washed in cold water and hung to dry.

How To Cook A Delicious Meal

You don’t need to be Jamie Oliver in the kitchen, but knowing how to cook at least a few meals well is an important skill that will take you far in life. Not only will it ensure you don’t rely solely on takeout, but it is a skill that will surely impress your partner, friends, and family. If you don’t know where to begin, invest in a decent cookbook (or find an online blog you like) and experiment. You’ll only improve your cooking skills with practice.

How To Prioritize Your Mental Health

The final life skill all men should master is prioritizing your mental health. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and should be treated as such. Just as you might go for a run or hit the gym a few times a week, you should incorporate positive mental health habits into your weekly routine. Whether it’s as simple as carving out some “me time” to read a book, take a bath, or watch television, or as involved as attending a therapy session, yoga class, or meditating. There are plenty of ways to de-stress and re-centre, just make sure you’re taking the time to engage in activities that bring you joy.

How To Buy Men’s Underwear Online

Shopping for underwear online is no easy task. That is why we’ve put together a few tips on how to buy men’s underwear that will make your online shopping experience a breeze!

Consult the Sizing Chart

It’s no secret that in men’s and women’s fashion, universal sizing does not exist. As such, we recommend consulting the sizing chart of each new brand you’re considering buying from. You may even want to search the brand name and sizing to see what customers have said. Though we wish sizing was more straightforward, a pair of large boxer briefs from one brand may be the equivalent of a medium or even an extra-large at another.

Confirm the Fabric Type

When shopping for men’s underwear online, don’t simply look at style or colour. Instead, take the time to scroll down and view the fabric type. Fabric can tell you a lot about what the underwear will feel like, which is especially important when you’re not there to feel it in person. Different fabrics have different textures, properties, and care instructions. For example, microfibre is moisture-wicking and fast-drying but should be hung to dry, while cotton is soft and breathable but non-wicking.

Read the Reviews

Are the reviews positive or negative? And beyond that, what are the reviews saying? Are there several reviews all complaining about the same thing? Beyond simply looking at the rating, it’s important to read the reviews to figure out what people’s concerns are. If one of the most frequent comments is that the underwear isn’t true to size and fits smaller than other brands, this is an indicator to size up. When buying anything online, it’s a good idea to see what other people have said. (Though remember to take all reviews with a grain of salt as more often than not, people who leave reviews are doing so because they are angry or dissatisfied in some way.)

Check the Return Policy

Once you’ve found a pair of underwear you want to buy, there’s one last tip we suggest following. Before hitting the “Place Order” button, check the brand’s return policy. Return policies vary, but some companies will not offer returns on undergarments for hygienic reasons. It’s important to be aware of this before you place your order, especially if you’ve never ordered from this brand and are unsure of the sizing. However, there are lots of underwear brands that not only only accept returns but make the return process quick and simple. In our opinions, easy returns and free shipping, like those offered by Malebasics, are a must when it comes to online underwear shopping.

6 Wardrobe Basics Every Man Should Have

We’re here to inform you that there are a few wardrobe basics all men should have. From quality outwear to tailored jeans and a classic white button-up, the six essentials below are not only versatile but stylish.

Trenchcoat

The first essential item every man should have in their closet? A quality piece of outerwear. Trenchcoats are effortlessly chic and suited to a wide variety of weather. They are also versatile. You can dress them up or down; wear it to work, wear it on a date, or wear it on a casual weekend running errands. When the weather gets too cold for a trenchcoat, we recommend switching to a wool peacoat, another versatile and stylish jacket that also happens to be timeless.

Dress Shoes

Every man should have a nice pair of dress shoes. Why? Because even if the dress code at your office is casual, there is inevitably going to come a time in your life when dress shoes are required. From job interviews to social events, such as weddings or funerals, black or brown dress shoes are an essential piece of footwear.

Tailored Jeans

Many people fail to realize the benefits of tailoring, even by the time they’re well into adulthood. Tailoring is the difference between an ill-fitting pair of jeans and a pair of jeans that fits perfectly. And as an adult, the latter is a must. Every man should have a pair of high-quality denim jeans for casual social occasions. For a classic, timeless look, find a pair of straight-leg jeans in a darker wash. Even if you think they fit well, we recommend taking them to a tailor and seeing what they suggest. Chances are they will be able to improve the fit, whether it be the length or width of the pants.

White Button-up Shirt

The white button-up is a classic for a reason – it looks great and it goes with everything. Wear it underneath a suit, with a pair of jeans, or even tucked into a pair of shorts in the summer. There’s no better way to look casually cool than with a simple white button-up.

Watch

The ultimate men’s accessory? A watch. Watches instantly make a man look more put-together. And don’t think you have to splurge on a watch to reap the style benefits. Even inexpensive or casual watches will elevate your look. Strap one on, roll up the sleeves of your button-up, put on your tailored jeans and you’ve got yourself a look no one will be able to resist.

Boxer Briefs

One last basic all men should have? Underwear. Specifically, boxer briefs. Boxer briefs are the perfect everyday underwear. They’re supportive, comfortable, and they come in all prints and fabrics, meaning you’ll be able to find ones that work for the gym, the boardroom, and the bedroom. Boxer briefs also come in a wide variety of lengths, so whether you’re looking for something that hits mid-thigh or upper thigh, you’ll be able to find it. Shop Malebasics men’s boxer briefs today.

Underwear For Every Occasion

We’re huge proponents of men having multiple kinds of underwear in their drawer. Why? Well, beyond variety being the spice of life, each type of men’s underwear has its own unique benefits. Some underwear styles and fabrics are better suited to certain activities. For example, microfibre underwear, known for its moisture-wicking properties, is ideal for working out, while a sexy lace thong is a surefire way to impress your partner in the bedroom. You see where we’re going with this? Keep reading to learn the best type of men’s underwear for every occasion.

Day at the Office

A day at the office requires a pair of underwear that’s comfortable and supportive. To us, there’s nothing better than the timeless boxer brief. Boxer briefs, or even just briefs, are classics for a reason. They’re flattering, fit snugly, don’t look bulky under dress pants, and they’re comfy as can be, even if you spend eight hours a day sitting in them at your desk. When it comes to everyday boxer briefs, we highly recommend choosing a breathable fabric like cotton.

Gym Sesh

Workouts require a specific type of underwear. While everyday cotton underwear is great for home or work, they simply won’t do at the gym. When exercising, you should always look for breathable underwear with moisture-wicking properties. This is the only way to keep cool and dry throughout your workout, and to prevent chafing or humidity down south. While any microfibre underwear will do, we recommend the Malebasics Titanium line, designed specifically for high intensity workouts, such as CrossFit. Titanium is made of a tri-blend of fabrics, engineered to be breathable, fast-drying, and supportive. When it comes to performance underwear, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Date Night

Unlike a day at the office or a gym sesh, date night calls for a different kind of underwear entirely. To us, there are only two styles that come to mind for a sexy night in: thongs or jockstraps. These sultry styles leave little to the imagination and are sure to wow your partner in the bedroom. And when it comes to date night underwear, the sexier the better. While thongs and jockstraps are inherently sexy owing to their barely-there silhouettes, we also recommend choosing a seductive fabric. Malebasics has thongs and jockstraps made of mesh, lace, and fishnet.

Lounging Around

Picture this: It’s Friday night, you’ve just gotten home from work, and you have no plans for the weekend other than laying in bed and catching up on Netflix. What kind of underwear are you wearing? We don’t know about you, but for us it’s a no brainer – boxers. Whether you prefer loose-fitting boxers or a pair of form-fitting trunks, this mid-thigh men’s underwear style is as comfy as can be. Pair your favourite boxers with a cozy, cotton tee and you’ve got yourself the perfect lounge outfit.

14 of the Best Sexy Men’s Underwear Campaigns

Though underwear businesses are dedicated to producing comfortable, quality underwear, the true shining stars are the models in their ads and campaigns. For years, big and small brands alike have been showing the world drool-worthy men in underwear, and we’re ready to talk about our favorites.

Vintage Male Underwear Ads

It’s no secret that male underwear ads have changed over time, as have photo and video technology. This being said, many love the ‘vintage’ aesthetic, and we can’t help but love it, too. Here are our favorite vintage male underwear advertisements:

Tom Hintnaus

Tom Hintnaus was featured in Calvin Klein’s first male underwear ad in 1982. To this day, this shoot remains one of the best. Not only is the photo itself great in terms of the color and angle, but Hintnaus’ stance and awareness of his body takes this shot to the next level.

Antonio Sabato Jr.

There may be some debate as to whether or not this is vintage, but the style is undeniable. Sabato’s 1996 Calvin Klein shoot was simple, and one of the company’s highest selling campaigns to date. Sabato was also featured alongside Hintnaus in Calvin Klein’s first men’s underwear shoot in 1982.

Famous Men in Underwear Campaigns

Men in underwear campaigns is already a win in our book, but that win is elevated when your favorite celeb partakes in a shoot. Whether that celeb is an athlete, actor, or musician, we’ve considered them for the sexiest underwear campaigns with famous men. Here’s our final list:

Athletes

Seeing professional athletes shirtless may be nothing new, but these campaigns will have you reacting like you’ve never seen a man in his underwear before.

Odell Bechkam Jr. – Calvin Klein

As part of the #mycalvins IRL campaign in the fall of 2019, Odell Beckham Jr. delivered an assortment of sexy shots. This series included edited, studio photos in Calvin Klein underwear, as well as unedited, “IRL” photos, taken while lounging at home.

David Beckham – Armani

There isn’t a person in the world unaware of who David Beckham is, but you may be unaware of his campaigns with the brand Armani. Beckham is a frequent model for Armani, but this shoot exceeds all expectations.

Cristiano Ronaldo – Armani

Cristiano Ronaldo is a world-revered athlete, and his physique definitely shows us that. In his shoot with Armani, Ronaldo delivered the perfect combination of mystery and expression that leaves you wondering why he hasn’t pursued a modeling career full time.

Actors

Actors have a lot of experience in front of the camera, which should make modeling easier. While this is not the case for every actor-turned-model, it’s certainly the case for these ones.

Nolan Funk – Versace

Noah Funk’s 2014 Versace campaign can be described in a few short words–decadent, outstanding, and marvelous, to name a few. Funk was consistently playing in main roles at this point in his career, and this campaign made major waves with his fans.

Jamie Dornan – Calvin Klein

After his role as Christian Grey, seeing Jamie Dornan in his underwear is nothing new. This Calvin Klein shot from Dornan’s time as a model takes us back to 2009 and reminds us that while Dornan shirtless may be nothing new, it is still something to be excited about.

Musicians

Musicians are performers at heart, and that may be what makes them so comfortable in front of the camera. These men don’t only put on a good show on stage, they put on a pretty good one in these underwear campaigns, too.

Justin Bieber – Calvin Klein

Bieber collaborated with Calvin Klein during their #mycalvins campaign, and was a hit with consumers everywhere. Coined the ‘Bad Boy Bieber’ collab by countless headlines and articles, this shoot garnered Justin and Calvin Klein a lot of attention, though not all of it was positive. There was a lot of debate online over whether or not Biebers ‘package’ had been enhanced.

Joe Jonas – Guess

Amidst his return to the music industry, Joe Jonas was featured in a Guess campaign that had his previous fans drooling and new fans pooling in. Though Jonas was featured fully clothed as well, his underwear shots from this campaign are the most popular of the set by far.

Shawn Mendes – Clavin Klein

Mendes was featured in the fall 2019 installment of #mycalvins, and sent the internet into a whirlwind with his intimate pictures and six-pack abs. This was Mendes’ first underwear shoot, but the success of this shoot means we may get more in the future.

Calvin Harris – Armani