36 Classy, Essential Accessories for Men to Go from Boyhood to Adulthood

Taking pride in your attire isn’t reserved only for women. In fact, countless men do it too. Here are the essential accessories every man needs.

Among purses, sunglasses, makeup bags, totes, and jewelry, women have plenty of essential accessories to choose from. It’s no wonder no one stops to think about men, since most walk around carrying next to nothing. This is, however, changing in many professional, creative, and casual circles.

These days, men have quite a bit to carry. It can be hobby or career-related, but regardless, it’s quite a common thing to see men with carry-on bags and versatile wardrobes.

Men are more likely to carry the essentials, whether for aesthetic purposes or for more practical uses. You, as a man, may be wondering, “What are the essential accessories I need in my life?” Well, we’re here to name a few!

[Read: How to be more attractive to women & 72 traits that make you VERY desirable]

The essential accessories every adult man should have

Get rid of that old Velcro wallet you’ve had since high school, along with that ratty old watch. It’s time to step up your accessory game with these manly essentials.

1. Phone

Sounds pretty normal, but many men forget they can use their phones for more than Snapchat, FaceTime, texts, and calls.

These days, a phone can be a personal assistant for keeping track of appointments, reminders, spending, and more. If you’re forgetful or have a hard time keeping track of life, these are some things to consider.

2. Durable phone case

Your phone is usually the most expensive essential accessory you carry around all the time, so it only makes sense that you should make the extra purchase to protect it. A durable case *and screen protector* can really change your attitude toward your phone.

Instead of reaching for the same cheap, flimsy, and easily scratched phone case, splurge a bit on a nicer one. Phone cases that are solid-colored and durable can make you stand out and seem mature. There are even masculine phone cases that have wallets attached to them.

3. Sunglasses

Also pretty basic, but the point of essential accessories is to be prepared for anything. Sunglasses that are versatile and can be paired with either hoodies or suits are a must.

The key here is to splurge if your bank account can allow for it. Buying a single, versatile pair of sunglasses will last a lifetime compared to cheaper sunglasses.

You don’t want to be stuck in direct sunlight, squinting and regretful. Plus, they add an air of mystery that ladies just love. [Read: 16 reasons why girls love guys with glasses and find them interesting]

4. A classic, simple, durable wallet

That wallet with the chain from high school needs to go, if it hasn’t already. Actually, all Velcro, cloth, and destroyed wallets need to be thrown out.

Adult men need a classic, simple, durable *preferably leather* wallet that can hold all their cards and money. It goes well with anything, does all adult men justice, and gives off a mature, clean-cut impression.

5. A classic watch

Nothing is sexier than a man who values his time. A classic watch that can be paired with both formal and casual clothes is a must-have essential accessory for every modern gentleman.

Even if you can always check the time on your phone *albeit only after trying to pull it out of your pants pocket*, investing in a reliable watch is still a more fashionable and appealing option. [Read: 37 secrets to prepare for a date & get ready to impress]

6. Jewelry

Simple, sleek, masculine jewelry is a go-to way to draw attention to a certain aspect of your body. A mental cuff bracelet or a thin chain around your neck can turn a casual outfit into something thought-out and high-end. There are plenty of sophisticated jewelry options perfect for almost any occasion.

7. Headphones

Preferably earbuds, because you never know when you need to pack them up. If a man is going to a local coffee shop, his partner’s house, or simply a quiet place to work, he should be able to listen to music or watch videos without bothering anyone.

8. Pen

You may read this and think, “Why would a pen be an essential accessory?” and we’re here to tell you there are many ways a well-made pen can enhance your positive attributes.

If you’re signing papers or doing business, pulling out a good quality pen displays power, professionalism, and masculinity. If someone is in need of a pen and you offer yours, it makes you come across as resourceful and dependable.

So, carry a pen with you, men.

9. Cologne

You’ve heard it a million times, we know, but every man should have cologne! Smelling good is always a great idea, and not just for attraction purposes. It will boost your confidence and people will naturally gravitate toward you.

When choosing a cologne, try to find a complex scent that is versatile and modern. This is especially true if you’re picking out cologne on a budget—the best way to save money is to find one scent you really enjoy that works great with any season. [Read: How to wear cologne – cologne chemistry & the guide to do it right]

10. A backpack or carry-on bag

If a man travels often, carries a lot of hobby-related items, or plans on being out for most of the day and needs a change of clothes, then he needs a bag of some kind.

Although it is a carry-on bag, it isn’t necessarily feminine. There are several edgy, plain, neutral-colored, or manly-patterned duffle bags and backpacks available for men. For instance, Chrome Industries makes several stylish bags for men on the go.

11. Dopp kit

Along with your backpack or carry-on bag, a practical and essential accessory to have is a dopp kit. The elevated version of the toiletry bag, these handy travel bags ensure you’re always equipped with your grooming essentials.

12. Grooming kit

What else is more perfect to put in your new dopp kit than a grooming kit? A high-quality grooming kit has tools you can utilize for every area of your body, such as facial hair, eyebrows, nose, hands, and feet.

Every man needs a grooming kit so he can look his best without having to make an appointment with the barber every other day. That is what makes this accessory so essential! [Read: Do women like beards? 48 facial hair secrets, rules & what girls want to see]

13. A reversible belt that goes from brown to black

There is nothing that screams, “I don’t know how to dress myself, so therefore, I must not do my own laundry” more than mixing a brown belt with black shoes, or vice versa. This is why a reversible belt is great: no matter the shoe, you’ve got the right belt.

14. A blazer that can be dressed up or down

Men can pair this with a simple, plain t-shirt and dark jeans, and go on a casual date. They can also dress it up with a button-down and slacks for something more formal. This is one of those items in a closet that can be used in a variety of outfits and is always acceptable.

15. Iron

An iron and ironing board are a must for anyone who wants to look put-together. With this tool, you’ll never have to worry about whether or not you can wear certain clothes. When you use an iron, your outfits will look crisp, clean, and classy.

This is an essential accessory that should be in every man’s closet.

16. Pocket square

If you’re looking to dress up an outfit, a pocket square is the easiest way to do so! Styling a pocket square with a blazer can enhance how sophisticated your outfit looks.

If you’re intimidated by all of the patterns or unsure which colors complement others, don’t fret. Start with a simple, white pocket square. You can’t go wrong with this one! [Read: 40 secrets & easy hacks to look rich & dress like you’re rolling in cash]

17. A tie that can be paired with most suits

Like the basic white pocket square, a simple one-colored tie is an easy way to dress up a suit without much effort. Navy or black ties are optimal for this.

Patterned ties and brightly colored hues are actually not bad, depending on how they’re used. But a basic, easily-paired tie is a must before anything else. That is the foundation of your whole tie collection. It serves its purpose, no matter the suit.

18. Tie bar

If you’re looking to up your formal outfit game even more, we recommend a tie bar. A tie bar clips your tie to the front of your shirt so there isn’t a moment where you don’t look put together. Although they range in design and color, we recommend a sleek, simple silver tie bar for starters.

19. Cufflinks

These are subtle but spunky ways to dress up a formal outfit. Coming in all shapes, sizes, and colors, cufflinks attach through buttonholes on the wrist cuffs. Their purpose is to secure the cuffs of the shirt from sliding over your hand while making your undershirt look crisp.

If you have essential accessories you’re already wearing, such as a pocket square, a tie, a tie bar, or jewelry, try matching your cufflinks with those items. When it comes to the design of cufflinks, the possibilities are endless. [Read: How to dress to impress a girl & get more than just a second glance]

20. Gloves

High-quality gloves can be a game-changer to any winter-ready outfit. Ditch the cheap cotton gloves and find yourself a versatile pair of sturdy, well-made gloves in your preference for solid color.

A pair of leather, wool, or high-end cotton gloves make any man seem tasteful and prepared for anything.

21. White low-top sneakers

If you’re wanting to pair sneakers with a casual outfit, go for a white low-top pair. All-white sneakers *as opposed to multi-colored ones* make your casual outfit look put-together, sophisticated, and most importantly, mature.

Don’t be afraid to splurge on a nice pair; the better quality your sneakers are the longer they will last!

22. Casual shoes that aren’t sneakers

After a certain age, men should be able to go out casually without wearing sneakers. While sneakers are comfortable and never go out of style, there are some casual yet upscale options on the market.

These accessories are essential, especially on dates, family reunions, and more formal day-to-day events. This doesn’t mean sneakers shouldn’t be worn—just that sometimes, it’s nice for a man to step up his style.

23. Dress socks

Contrary to popular belief, dress socks aren’t only reserved for formal occasions. In fact, there are different styles of dress socks to choose from so you can wear them casually as well.

No more stained white socks with holes in them. Instead, buy a pack of dress socks and you’ll feel and look much better. [Read: What men think impresses women and what actually does]

24. A lint roller

Lint, hair, and pet fur are all pesky things that take away from your look. Formal or casual – be sure you use a lint roller before leaving the house *or travel with a mini lint roller*.

They come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, so there isn’t any excuse to walk around covered in dog hair.

25. A single-colored baseball hat

We’re sure you already have a collection of baseball hats, but are any of them versatile? Single-colored? If not, it’s about time to find one.

A durable, all-purpose single-colored baseball hat can elevate a casual outfit on your bad hair days.

26. A portfolio

You’ve seen them—the men that carry a leather-bound notebook/binder that they keep their tablets in, along with notebooks, pens, etc.

They may seem pretentious, but they’re actually quite useful. These are used to keep track of work projects, personal reminders, or homework for those in college.

27. Business card case

For men who work in business, you understand the importance of having an appealing business card. But are you giving the same attention to your business card case?

Before you hand over your business card, you are already leaving an impression based on your business card case. Avoid cases with gimmicks or that don’t fully protect your card as these only come off as childish.

Instead, opt for a business card case that fully protects your cards and is made of good material. You want to keep your case simple, dignified, and long-lasting. Metal or leather cases are your best friend.

28. Oxford or Derby shoes

Oxford or Derby shoes are key to making an outfit look refined. Not only can they be paired with formal clothes, but casual clothes as well, such as chinos or jeans.

Which style you go for is up to you, but we recommend a sleek black pair or a suede brown pair. [Read: Metrosexuality – what it is & the signs and benefits of being a metrosexual man]

29. Shoe polish kit

If you’re going to own nice shoes, it only makes sense that you upkeep them. A shoe polish kit is affordable and worthwhile.

By spending a few dollars and a few minutes of your time polishing your shoes, you will look put together and unblemished.

30. Boxer briefs

Intimate garments are really a personal preference, that’s why so many of them exist! But if we were to recommend a style that compliments the male body and feels great, it would be boxer briefs.

Not only do they objectively look great on men, but they make you feel great as well. They are sexy, sophisticated, and mature.

31. A laptop to work in a portable setting

This goes for people with desktops. Men should be able to work anywhere, not just on a desktop computer. If you’re a photographer, artist, writer, or anything else creative, this is a given.

While a desktop may be more reliable than a laptop, it always pays to have a backup in case your primary workstation conks out on you. [Read: 40 best places to meet women to find a perfect girlfriend]

32. Coasters

Because no adult man should have watermarks on his furniture. This can’t be expressed enough: no one wants to date someone who can’t take care of tables, nightstands, or whatever else they’re putting their drinks on.

It’s not a matter of vanity, it’s the fact that furniture is an investment meant to last a long time. Ruining it means that your whole place will look trashy. This is why coasters are an essential accessory in any man’s home.

33. Pocket knife

Even if you think you would never use a pocket knife, that is all the more reason you should carry one. We always find ourselves needing things the most when we don’t have them.

They can be useful no matter the occasion. Not to mention, if you’re the only one at the scene with a pocket knife to get out of a jam, you will be seen as reliable and clever by others.

34. Swiss Army Knife

A Swiss Army Knife is like a pocket knife but more functional. Think of it as a mini toolbox.

This kind of knife includes many tools inside its handle that are available whenever you may need them the most. Carrying a durable Swiss Army Knife proves that you’re ready for any occasion life throws at you. Plus, this tool just oozes masculinity. [Read: What is masculinity? 46 manly & toxic traits women love & despise in men]

35. Flashlight

Like the pocket knife, a flashlight is a functional, essential accessory that you will need when you least expect it.

A small one for your keychain, or a large one for your trunk, these come in all shapes and sizes so you don’t have to worry about not having one.

36. A durable gym bag

If you’re someone who hits the gym frequently, it’s probably time to elevate your gym bag. A great gym bag is one designed to carry your shoes, clothes, towels, and any extra essential accessories you use.

No more cramming everything into one bag and hoping it fits.

[Read: What makes a man a man – 20 manly & relevant traits that defy stereotypes]

Taking care of your appearance and carrying functional accessories doesn’t make you any less of a man. Whether you work in a technical or creative field, the right accessories give you a more polished and sophisticated look.