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Style Essentials: Classic Men’s Clothing You Need in Your Wardrobe

It’s safe to say that American fashion dominated the 20th century. From Levi’s denim securing its spot as the de facto work-wear to Clint Eastwood elevating the cowboy boot from practical, range-riding protection to its current place as a symbol of bad-assery, U.S. style has been seeping into global culture since the advent of Hollywood. However, the entertainment complex can’t take all of the credit.

Why? Because most well-known (and well-worn) American fashion began life as clothes for the working man, meaning it had to be both tough and comfortable. In addition to denim and the cowboy boot, a perfect example is the white T-shirt. Originally created during the Spanish-American war circa 1898, it was so beloved that the Navy began issuing them in 1913 to sailors as undergarments, and by the 1920s, workmen were wearing them daily, along with most young boys.

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To honor our fashion heritage and to help you, dear reader, achieve iconic style, we put together a list of our favorite iconic American fashion pieces and a few options you can get today.

Outerwear

Leather Moto Jacket

Bomber Jacket

Denim Jacket

Blue Blazer

Footwear

Sneaker

Loafer

Work Boot

Tops

Knit Sweater

Polo

The T-shirt

Hoodie

Bottoms

Denim

Chino/Khaki

The Short

Cowboy Boots

Sunglasses

Wayfarer

Aviator

Clubmaster

Watches

Field Watch

Chronograph

And if you’re not just down for American style, but American made style, check out these all Made-in-the-USA gifts.

Chase McPeak
Former Former Digital Trends Contributor, The Manual
Chase McPeak is the former Lifestyle Editor. Chase regularly appeared on Beards, Booze, and Bacon: The Manual Podcast where…
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