HOW TO BUILD THE PERFECT CLOSET

A definitive guide to the 50 pieces of clothing every man needs for the warm-weather months.

- BY SAMUEL HINE AND YANG-YI GOH

DENIM JACKET

Lee, Vintage: The denim trucker is the universal donor of your spring wardrobe, a piece to build around in any situation.

DUFFEL BAG

Louis Vuitton Men's: All history and prestige aside, nobody makes a better and more enduring weekend travel bag.

IT'S a fantasy we've all had at some point or another: What if you just tossed your entire closet out into the street and started over from scratch? Which garments would be most crucial for establishing the foundations of a deeply stylish, wholly functional wardrobe? And what elements make up the perfect versions of each?

That was the thought experiment we ran through while compiling this list of menswear essentials for the spring and summer seasons. Many of these pieces came directly from our editors' own wardrobes—meaning they've been worn and loved and stood the test of time—and all of them were carefully selected to work in concert with one another, in near-infinite outfit combinations.

In other words: Own these items—or some version of them—and you've got pretty much everything you need to dress impeccably through the warmer months. Happy hunting.

3. DRESS BELT

Artemas Quibble: Your waistline deserves an artisanal buckle and heirloom-worthy hide.

4. DARK NAVY SUIT

J. Mueser: The tailors here have perfected the navy suit that'll take you from job interviews to your own wedding.

5. ACETATE SUNGLASSES

Jacques Marie Mage: The LA eyewear maestro has cornered the market on movie-star shades.