Men’s Apparel Guide
Many clothing styles for men are considered classics or timeless. There are also many seasonal trends and other unique ways that help express one’s individual style. This guide will help break down and explore a mix of those timeless looks and some new trends for both business and casual.
Function & Fashion
Tops
You need clothing that is versatile and able to move with you from workday through the night. Or you may need a shirt for that extra-special occasion. Regardless, here is a complete rundown of the different styles of tops to pick from.
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Types of Shirts
The workplace for many has recently been evolving. What was once more business casual, is now quickly becoming an emphasis more on the casual. Casual shirts are an essential part of a wardrobe whether it be for work or play.
Henley
A lightweight, collarless pullover with a round neckline and buttons that make it versatile for mild weather.
Polo
A collared shirt, typically made of thicker knit with short sleeves and buttons at the top.
Crewneck
Shirt or sweater with a round neckline. This helps create a square frame with your body and shoulders.
V Neck
Type of shirt with a pointed neckline that forms a V-shaped neck to help give a more slim look to any physique.
Button-down
Button-down fronts give this a dressier look. But when worn untucked, it can provide a more casual look.
Active
Sleek and sporty look for at the gym or working out due to the lightweight, moisture-wicking material.
Tank Top
Sleeveless design that helps complement the shoulders. These are great for those warm temperatures.
Hoodie
Typically made of thicker material and has a hood to be worn when needed. A great option for colder weather.
Find Your Fit
Certain shirts can be worn tucked in or with an untucked look. It’s important to consider the fit and how you will be wearing a shirt since different cuts are designed to be worn specific ways.
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Untucked Slim Fit
Shorter sleeve length with a straight body design and tapered sleeve openings.
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Standard Fit
Comfortable armholes with a straight body design and standard sleeve openings.
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Standard Untucked Fit
Comfortable armholes and relaxed body design with standard sleeve openings and shorter in length.
Bottoms
Pants or shorts. Seems like an easy choice before you consider the many different options within the two categories. Here is a full-length rundown of all the different bottom options to pick from.
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Types of Pants
The pants you choose to wear can tell others things like who you are, what you do for a living and where you are from. As the saying goes, “dress for how you want to be addressed.”
Joggers
More form-fitting option made of a more lightweight material and has a cinched ankle and banded hem.
Dress
Great option for a suit jacket or can stand alone with a nice button-down top to still give a more formal look.
Casual
A broad category that is more focused on comfort and also comes in many different colors and fabrics.
Athletic
Slim fitting and relaxed in areas that allow for movement. Made of comfortable, more breathable materials.
Cargo
Made of durable or thicker materials with pockets at the hip and extra utility pockets on the side.
Golf
Dressier look with added activewear technology like UPF sun protection or moisture-wicking materials.
Khaki
Thicker cotton twill with a flat or pleated front. These range from light yellow to dark beige.
Sweatpants
Thickest of materials with an elastic band or drawstring for increased comfort and warmth.
Jeans
Each style of jeans is cut slightly different and therefore what may work for some body types, may not fit or feel right for everyone else. Here are the different cut types and how each will fit differently.
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Classic
Sits at the waist and has a relaxed fit though the hip and thigh with a traditional leg opening.
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Loose
Sits just below the natural waistline and has extra room in the thigh and knee with a loose leg opening.
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Regular
Sits below the natural waistline with a closer fit through the hip and thigh while having a straight leg.
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Relaxed
Easier or looser fit from the waist and hips through the thigh and a straight fit through the leg.
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Skinny
More form fitting than a slim fit and tighter in the seat and thigh that continues down to the leg and opening.
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Slim
Slightly more form fitting than the classic fit with tighter material in the seat, thigh and down the leg.
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Straight
Closer fit at the waistline and thigh that continues down with a standard-fit leg opening.
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Bootcut
Sits below the natural waist with a straight fit from the thigh to the knee while being more loose at the bottom.
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Athletic
Sits below the natural waistline with a more relaxed fit in the seat and thigh with a tapered leg.
Leg Openings
Calf comfort is key and pants come in a variety of leg openings. The most important consideration here is the type of shoes you will be wearing and possibly the size or shape of your calf muscles.
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1
Bootcut
Looser leg opening to allow for wider calves or larger shoes or boots.
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2
Skinny
Tighter fit throughout the leg and extending down to the opening.
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3
Straight
Even or straight fit through the entire leg and opening.
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4
Tapered
Legs are wider at the top and gradually narrow towards the ankle.
1. Bootcut
Looser leg opening to allow for wider calves or larger shoes or boots.
2. Skinny
Tighter fit throughout the leg and extending down to the opening.
3. Straight
Even or straight fit through the entire leg and opening.
4. Tapered
Legs are wider at the top and gradually narrow towards the ankle.
Shorts
There are two seasons: shorts season and weather too cold to wear shorts in. While it's easy to know the time of year, finding the right shorts may be a bit harder given all of the different options to pick from.
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Denim
Partial-length trousers made of jean material are a timeless look and continue to be trendy.
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Cargo
The standard length extends to just above the knee and include additional large side pockets.
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Linen
Made from lightweight, breathable material to give a laid-back and comfortable feel for those warm days.
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Athletic
Most lightweight option and can include an elastic or drawstring waist and moisture-wicking technology.
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Flat Front
Provides a classier look to make them great for both work and casual looks.
Shorts Inseam
The inseam is the inside measurement where the four seams meet, down to the tip of the leg opening. The most common inseam of seven inches falls just above the knee.
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5 inch
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7 inch
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9 inch
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11 inch
Dress Clothing
You may only dress up for special occasions or might need to wear dress clothing to work. Regardless of the occasion, finding dress clothes that fit you best is important. You will need to have accurate body measurements to find the fits best for your exact body type.
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Measuring for a Dress Shirt
Typically men’s sizes are small, medium, large, etc. Dress shirts are sized differently with two measurements: your neck circumference and the length of the arm.
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Measuring Your Neck
Find the height where your collar typically sits and measure all the way around. Make sure your tape measure sits comfortably with two fingers of space in between.
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Measuring Your Sleeve Length
Starting at the center of the back just below the neck, run the tape measure over the shoulder and down towards the arm and stop an inch past the wrist bone.
Dress Shirt Fit
Some men prefer a little more room in a dress shirt for added movement or comfort throughout the day, while some may enjoy a more form-fitting option that helps complement their physique.
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1
Extra Slim
Most form-fitting option in the chest, waist, shoulder and arms. The back is pulled in to highlight your silhouette.
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2
Slim
More form fitting in the chest and waist, while also having tapered sleeves and slightly higher arm holes.
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3
Modern
More broadly cut in the shoulders and slimmer in the waist to help to draw attention to your shoulders.
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4
Classic / Regular
The emphasis is mostly on comfort here with ample room in the chest, waist and arms.
1. Extra Slim
Most form-fitting option in the chest, waist, shoulder and arms. The back is pulled in to highlight your silhouette.
2. Slim
More form fitting in the chest and waist, while also having tapered sleeves and slightly higher arm holes.
3. Modern
More broadly cut in the shoulders and slimmer in the waist to help to draw attention to your shoulders.
4. Classic / Regular
The emphasis is mostly on comfort here with ample room in the chest, waist and arms.
Dress & Suit Pants
Knowing how to shop for dress and suit pants is very important as it can save you a trip to a tailor. Dress pants are a more versatile option that can be worn when dressed up and also pair well with just a collared shirt or polo. Suit pants are meant to be worn with a matching suit jacket.
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Extra Slim
Closest of fits with a very noticeable taper through the leg.
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Slim
Tight fit through the legs with a small leg opening.
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Tailored / Modern
Sits just below the natural waist and tapers on the way down.
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Classic
More room in the thigh and seat with a straight leg.
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Straight
Closer fit at the thigh and more loose at the leg opening.
Suit Coats, Sport Coats & Blazers
A good sport coat or blazer can not only be worn with suit pants, but also pairs well with jeans or khakis to give a casual look. Suit coats are meant to be worn only with matching suit pants.
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1
Extra Slim
Closest fit near the shoulder and torso while hugging the body. Armholes are higher with trimmer sleeves.
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2
Slim
More form fitting in shoulders and torso. Armholes are a bit deeper with relaxed sleeve.
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3
Tailored / Modern
Close fit through shoulders, torso and along the body. Armholes are higher with trimmer sleeves.
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4
Classic / Regular
More natural fit through the shoulders and torso with higher armholes and trimmer sleeves.
1. Extra Slim
Most form-fitting option in the chest, waist, shoulder and arms. The back is pulled in to highlight your silhouette.
2. Slim
More form fitting in the chest and waist, while also having tapered sleeves and slightly higher arm holes.
3. Modern
More broadly cut in the shoulders and slimmer in the waist to help to draw attention to your shoulders.
4. Classic / Regular
The emphasis is mostly on comfort here with ample room in the chest, waist and arms.
Ties
A tie is often the first thing someone notices when you wear one. Ties are a great way to showcase one’s individual style with endless colors, patterns and designs to pick from.
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Skinny
Worn best with a single-breasted suit with one or two buttons. Helps to give a more slimming look.
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Regular
The most common modern necktie. Ties typically come in a standard length about 58 inches long.
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Long
Slightly longer in length for taller individuals. Also helps if tying complex knots like a double windsor or balthus.
Collar Types
There are many collar types with each varying just slightly. When picking out a shirt with a collar, it’s important to consider what kind of neckwear you will be wearing.
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Button Down Collar
Buttons on the bottom front of the collar to help secure a tie from moving around.
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Spread Collar
Wider collar points that angle outward instead of pointing down to give a modern look.
Sport Coat & Blazer Measuring Guide
The quickest way to tell how well a suit fits is how the top button closes. When measuring for a suit, you will need to measure a little differently than you normally would for other clothing. You’ll need the following three measurements:
1. Sleeve
Slightly bend your elbow and measure from the center of your back along the outside of your arm.
2. Overarm
If you have a fuller upper body, you should measure over your arms at the fullest part of your chest.
3. Chest
Measure the fullest part of your chest. If the difference between the chest and overarm is more than 7 inches, move up a size.
The Perfect Fit
Use the following guidelines to help find your perfect fit when shopping for dress clothes and formal wear.
1. Shoulder
Should naturally contour your shoulder with fabric not extending past or falling short on your shoulder.
2. Torso
The top button should close with 2 fingers of room between your jacket and shirt.
3. Tie
Extends down to just lightly touch the top of the beltline.
4. Dress Shirt
Tuck into the pants and wear with a belt to keep a neat look while moving.
5. Sleeve
Shirt should have about a ½ inch showing while the arm is in a resting position.
6. Crotch
Should line up near the bottom of the jacket without restricting movement.
7. Front of Pants
Typically the hemline will touch just the tip of your shoes while standing.
How to Tie a Tie
It’s a milestone event in nearly every young man’s life where they need to scramble to figure out how to tie a tie before an important event with no one nearby to help. Here is the easiest, most common way to tie a necktie.
Four-In-Hand-Knot
After each step, be sure to pull and hold each side as tight as you can with nice and crisp folds.
Technology
Your grandpa likely starched and pressed his shirts every day before heading to work. Today, dress clothes have technology within the material to help reduce and eliminate wrinkles without additional care.
WRINKLE RESISTANT
Constructed from breathable fabric enhanced with innovative anti-wrinkle technology that is designed to resist wrinkles throughout the day.
WRINKLE FREE/NON-IRON
No iron or wrinkle-free fabric technology that helps prevent wrinkling and requires little-to-no ironing after washing.
Big & Tall
Big & tall clothing has added material in the areas you need it most depending on your body type. But, there are also many other benefits to help with sizing that are more than just additional fabric in the waist or added length.
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What is Big & Tall?
Typically men over 6 feet in height will need to shop in the tall section. Men with a waist measurement wider than their chest will need to look for clothing in the big section.
| BIG |
|---|
| Larger arm holes |
| Larger, deeper pockets |
| Increased neck opening |
| Wider cuffs and sleeves |
| Increased give or stretch to material |
| Additional belt loops |
| Durable reinforced seams |
| Comfort enhanced waistbands |
| Extra width in chest |
| TALL |
|---|
| Added buttons that are proportionally spaced |
| Longer pockets |
| Extended rise in the legs |
| Longer sleeve length |
| Longer torso |
| One inch longer inseam in shorts |
| Two inch longer inseam in pants |
Big & Tall Categories
Kohl's has you covered no matter what challenges you may face in finding your right fit. Many clothing options come in extended sizes to fit everyone’s needs for both style and comfort.
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Pants
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Shorts
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Tops
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Dress
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Active
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Swimwear
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Outerwear
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Outdoor
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Pajamas
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Underwear
Coats & Jackets
Finding the right amount of layers is more than just figuring out the weather for the day. Some outerwear options include additional technology like wind resistance and waterproofing, while others focus on being more fashionable.
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Jacket Types
From thin and packable options for protection only when you need it, all the way to thick and fluffy options that keep you warm all day, there are endless types of coats and jackets to pick from.
Anorak
Hip-length waterproof jacket with a hood.
Bomber
Tight cuffs with elastic waistband and wraparound collar make it great for transitional weather.
Car Coat
Oversized dressy style with buttons up the front with a collar and is shorter than an overcoat.
Military
Medium length jacket with 4 pouch pockets with snap closures in the front and button cuffs.
Motorcycle
Zippered front with waterproof design from leather or faux leather and has reinforced seams.
Overcoat
Heavy dress coat to protect from cold weather with a button-up front, large side pockets and oversized collar.
Parka
Versatile insulated jacket for cold weather that provides a more casual look.
Peacoat
Short double-breasted wool coat typically in navy blue or black that gives warmth and a dressed-up look.
Puffer
Quilted pattern of insulation pockets separated by stitching that give a high level of warmth.
Shirt Jacket
Designed to appear like a shirt but with thicker material and more relaxed fit. Great for mild weather.
Ski & Snowboard
Insulated longer jacket that is waterproof and breathable to protect from snow.
Track Jacket
Lightweight and breathable material with zipper enclosure that can be worn with multiple layers.
Vest
Completely sleeveless coat with armholes that hug the body and available in varying levels of thickness.
Windbreaker
Provides shield from wind in cool, dry conditions. Lightweight and easy to pack away if no longer needed.
Construction of a Coat
Some coats are meant to keep you dry while other coats will keep you warm. Some will do both. Here are the different material types and the level of protection each type provides.
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Rain
Polyester or nylon material that offers the best level of protection for keeping dry.
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Fleece
Cotton or synthetic fiber that is designed to retain heat while also wicking away moisture.
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Leather
Extremely durable fabric that offers excellent warmth and protection from the elements.
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Denim
Extremely durable and easy to clean fabric that is wrinkle resistant and low maintenance.
Warmth Rating
There are a few thickness ratings for jackets. It’s good to have at least one of each in your wardrobe to ensure you are covered no matter what the season will bring in terms of weather.
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Lightweight
Made out of light fabrics ideal for mild to slightly cooler temperatures and also windy weather.
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Midweight
Some additional insulation for colder but not freezing climates as well as casual situations.
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Heavyweight
Thickest and most insulated option. Typically includes a hood to withstand the coldest of temperatures.
Technology & Features
You’ll have a wide range of technology and material types to choose from. Some materials have added benefits that help keep you warm or dry.
WATER RESISTANT
Tightly woven material designed to provide protection against outside moisture.
WATERPROOF
The highest level of protection from outside wetness and moisture accomplished with a membrane on the inside.
PACKABLE
Includes a pouch or pocket designed to tightly store the jacket when not in use.
MOISTURE WICKING
Pulls wetness away from your body or inner layers to help keep you cool and dry.
WIND RESISTANT
Special reinforced seams and coated nylon or polyester to stop air from penetrating.
Swimwear
When the weather is warm the water seems to just start calling. Whether at the beach or a pool, swimsuits are a relaxation piece and there is no need to stress as you sort through the various sizes, prints, fabrics and styles that are available.
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Swim Trunks
The most noticeable difference in swim trunks is the cut or length of the inseam. Find the right length that gives coverage from the sun while allowing for maximum comfort.
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1
Short
Square cut and runs a little tighter. They fit more like boxers and provide the least protection from the sun.
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2
Classic
The most common suit type with a slightly looser feel and has a mesh liner inside.
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3
Long
Extends down to just above the kneecap with a looser feel to give max sun protection for leisure wear.
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4
Board Shorts
Designed specifically for performance while swimming with a form-fitting look cut to just below the knee.
1. Short
Square cut and runs a little tighter. They fit more like boxers and provide the least protection from the sun.
2. Classic
The most common suit type with a slightly looser feel and has a mesh liner inside.
3. Long
Extends down to just above the kneecap with a looser feel to give max sun protection for leisure wear.
4. Board Shorts
Designed specifically for performance while swimming with a form-fitting look cut to just below the knee.
Swim Shirts
With those long beach days comes prolonged exposure to harsh sun rays. Swim shirts are a great way to keep covered with added UV protection but also to prevent rashes and chafing.
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Short Sleeve
Cut like a T-shirt but designed with material that wicks moisture and has technology to help block UV rays.
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Long Sleeve
Provides maximum sun protection on your upper half. Great for activities both in and out of the water.
Underwear
Underwear isn't just boxers or briefs but also includes socks and undershirts, which are staples in every man's wardrobe and often get neglected.
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Boxers & Briefs
The choice between boxers and briefs might be one you don’t think about, but can allegedly say a lot about your personality. While the statement they make is a bit unclear, the options to pick from are.
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Boxers
Basic full coverage option with an elastic band for a relaxed fit and wide leg holes to give minimal support.
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Boxer Brief
Moderate to full coverage that fit snugly to avoid bunching up throughout the day for increased support.
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Briefs
Close and tight fit with an elastic waist and leg holes which are cut shorter in length for moderate coverage.
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Long-leg Boxer Brief
Designed for performance or great for working out, they extend down to or just above the knee area.
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Trunk
Similar to boxers but have a bit less leg coverage and elastic at the leg holes for increased support.
Socks
Socks shouldn’t be an afterthought or something you get from grandma for Christmas. They are a great way to add some flair and show off with many colors or print options to pick from.
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No Show
Extremely low-cut socks that are completely hidden when wearing most closed-toe shoes.
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Low Cut
Cut to just below the ankle and great for both shorts and pants without worry of them slipping down.
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Ankle
Cut just slightly higher than a low-cut sock, this completely covers the ankle bone.
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Quarter
Extends about 6 inches above the ankle and stops below mid-calf. Great coverage and less likely to slip down.
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Crew
Versatile option can be worn while pulled up or cuffed down to provide additional warmth for the ankle.
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Dress
Made of thinner material that helps wick away moisture created when wearing leather dress shoes.
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Athletic
Increased elastic material throughout the entire sock along with moisture-wicking technology.
Undershirts
Layering with an undershirt is a great way to help minimize potential sweat marks or stains caused during warmer days. This added underlayer will help wick moisture from the body.
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Crewneck
Classic look with traditional round neck opening. Best for wearing wth a dress shirt and necktie.
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V-Neck
Neck opening plunges down to form a point at the top of the chest. Great for collared dress shirts and no tie.
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Tank Top
Sleeveless with large armholes. Provides minimal protection from sweat or deodorant stains.
Pajamas
When the days feel long, the best way to relax is to cozy up in some comfy loungewear in bed or on the couch. From festive holiday-themed one-piece pajamas to personalized monogram robes, there are many options to help relax and unwind.
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Types of Pajamas
All day you wear clothes outside the house that help portray to others your sense of style and personality. There are many stylish and functional options to help continue to look and feel your best when at home.
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Pants
Loose-fitting, soft and comfortable fabric bottoms that stretch and help you stay warm.
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Shorts
More lightweight, breathable option allows for increased movement and less friction for restless sleepers
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Tops
Stay covered and cool with a layer of cooling fabric on top ranging from short to full-length sleeves.
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Robes
Great for adding a layer when around the house to increase warmth on those cooler nights.
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Sets
Includes top and bottoms in matching prints or colors to complement each other and show off your fun side.
Types of Material
Comfort is king when it comes to sleepwear and loungewear. There is a wide range of material options to reach peak comfort from thick heavier material to keep you warm or thinner, more lightweight options to help keep you from overheating while you sleep.
KNIT
Very comfortable, soft material made of interlocking yarn and typically more form fitting or flexible.
WOVEN
Tight weave of materials to give added warmth and comfort but a bit less stretchy or flexible.
FRENCH TERRY
Made from very soft cotton piles or loops that allow for more airflow when you need it.
FLEECE
Thick synthetic material that includes insulation to keep you toasty all night long.
FLANNEL
Medium-weight thickness commonly spotted with the square design printed on the slightly fuzzy material.