What to have in the cupboard if you are starting from scratch
Short answer: Ten pairs of briefs, ten pairs of socks, five T-shirts, two jumpers, two pairs of trousers and two sets of pyjamas cover a normal week with a single wash. Start there, and add the rest once you see what you actually use.
Underwear and socks first
Ten of each cover a week with a single wash and wear out more slowly, because use spreads across several pieces instead of one pair getting worn every single day. See bamboo underwear for men and start here, before spending time and money on the rest of the wardrobe.
Five T-shirts
Five pieces cover an ordinary working week without a midweek wash. Buy them in two colours, so you do not look exactly the same every day. See bamboo T-shirts for men and pick one dark and one light tone that suits most things.
Two jumpers
One light and one heavier jumper cover the whole year indoors, from late summer through to winter. See sweatshirts and choose a neutral fabric that works with both trousers and T-shirts without much thought needed.
Two pairs of trousers
One pair for everyday and one for slightly smarter occasions is enough for most people. Extra pairs rarely get worn, since people reach for the same pair each morning anyway. See bamboo T-shirt for women if you need a couple of extra pieces.
Two sets of pyjamas
One set worn and one waiting in the wardrobe is enough for most weeks. Read washing and care to learn how pyjamas last longest, so you do not need to replace them more often than necessary.
Buy quality over quantity
Fewer pieces of better quality last longer and look better after many washes than lots of cheap pieces that wear out fast. A small number of good pieces is easier to keep track of than a large, cluttered wardrobe.
Build up as needed
Once the fixed basics are in place, you can add more depending on daily life, such as workout wear or extra layers for colder days. Avoid buying too much at once, so you can see what actually gets worn before adding further.
Keep track of the numbers
Write down what you own and how many of each, so you avoid ending up with too much of one thing and too little of another. A short list on your phone makes it easy to keep track without counting each time.
Wait on the extras
Seasonal and smarter pieces can wait until the basics are in place and working in daily life. It is easier to see what is genuinely missing once the fixed basics already cover most of the week without gaps.
Frequently asked questions
How many pairs of briefs should you have?
Ten pairs. That covers a week with a single wash and means each pair wears out more slowly, since use is spread across several pieces instead of just one.
How many T-shirts are enough?
Five pieces cover an ordinary working week. Buy them in two colours, so you avoid looking exactly the same every single day without any extra effort.
How many jumpers should you start with?
Two. One light and one heavier jumper cover most of the year indoors, from late summer through winter, without filling the wardrobe with unnecessary extras.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
