Our team x their go-to comfortwear
If you knew the number of hours of workshopping it took to get to any kind of consensus about what exactly basics are at Superbalist HQ? Let’s just say you could sooner count the number of times SA’s lockdown regulations have changed (...and while we’re here: wear your masks, good people). It didn’t feel right calling them essentials anymore, given the times. But when brainstorming sense prevailed, a few commonalities quickly surfaced. We’re all clear on the basics we can’t stop wearing. We keep going to the same places to replenish, year after year. The reasons why we buy them don’t really change and nor do the feels they bring. Still though, we were left with one question: so what exactly is a basic? Universally, white tees, jeans and all their friends. But when it comes to our personal ways of living, our choices are far more varied. And that’s just fine. With that, we turned to our highly opinionated team of menswear experts to show us their basics – and the secrets they’d reveal if they could talk.
How do you define basics?
They’re those pieces that you don't even have to think about. They're just there, the bedrock of almost every outfit. So if I'm being honest I should actually say that my only essentials right now are sweatpants.
[But he didn’t…] So, what’s yours?
I got my grey cotton turtleneck knit about a year ago. For winter, I especially love high-necked pieces that serve as a base layer. This was the first time I'd bought a grey one, but to date I've got two grey, three black and one navy blue. I haven't bought any since, but I'm due for a replen – this time I'm hunting for the perfect white turtleneck.
What comfort does it bring you?
It's a classic. I find comfort in knowing that it can easily replace a T-shirt in summer and I won't even have to think about whether the outfit will work, it just does. I’m a huge fan of simplifying the “what the hell am I gonna wear today?" process, which is why I can't seem to get out of wearing all black 90% of the time.
What key factors do you consider when buying your basics?
I'm a bit of a quality snob when I shop basics, so anytime I see a tag labelled “premium”, consider it sold. My bank account might not be happy, but I think of it as a long-term investment in my quest to make people think I have my life together. Quality materials, an aversion to any word that starts with “poly” and weight are a big part of what makes me buy. Is it soft to the touch? Does it hang in a way that feels easy to move around in? Will it blow in the breeze? Ja? Take my money.
And if your basic could talk, what would it say?
It would probably talk about all those cringey dates at that hole-in-the-wall dim sum bar at the end of Long Street, Cape Town. I can confidently say that it would take a judgemental tone and call me out on going to the same spot on most (if not all) of my dates. Mostly (if not always) wearing the same thing and seeing most (if not all) of those guys for a second date, even after the first one was terrible. I know I need to do better, but I stand by South China Dim Sum! Best (and cheapest) dim sum in town.
How do you define basics?
The first items you pack into your travel case when going on a trip. The ones you know you simply can’t go a week without. They’re the items that are part of my weekly rotation.
So, what’s yours?
The changing of seasons, coupled with a new way of working from home, means my key basics are always going to need to cover two things: warmth and comfort. The grey Sherpa-lined hoodie I bought from Superbalist absolutely nails both of those considerations. In the last month, I’ve honestly worn it five days a week because of that. Just one month later and I convinced myself I needed another, so I bought it in black. Needless to say, they both get equal love.
Why do you keep going back to it?
There are other pieces that could equally provide comfort and warmth, but there’s just something about the ease of use with this one. It fits so easily into my wardrobe and can be worn almost anywhere.
What key factors do you consider when buying your basics?
Right now, beyond warmth and comfort, an essential item would need to be easily layered into my aesthetic – a base that I can build multiple seasonal looks around, by adding eye-catching pieces.
And if your basic could talk, what would it say?
“I think we should start seeing other people.”
How do you define basics?
Items that are hardy in their quality. Longevity and versatility are also super important.
So, what’s yours?
Definitely my Birks. I like being barefoot, so this is the closest I get to that if I have to wear shoes. They're cross-seasonal, super easy to wear (I can just slide them on if I'm running out quickly) and they go with most of my wardrobe, whether it's pyjamas or a silky slip dress. I haven't had to replace them yet, but I've got my eyes on an olive green pair for the summer.
Why do you keep going back to it?
I tend to veer towards a glam aesthetic, but I love that these have a way of making all of my ensembles seem relaxed, which is a perfect reflection of me. I'm the type of person to wear a red lip with socks and Birks.
What key factors do you consider when buying your basics?
Fit and quality. I like to invest in my basics, so a little splurging on an item that I know will last me a long time is something I don't mind.
And if your basic could talk, what would it say?
“Give me a break." These are the only shoes I've worn in the past three months.
How do you define basics?
An item that I can pair with just about anything in my closet. It’s that classic piece that you’d feel lost without, hence the multiple purchases.
So, what’s yours?
A classic pair of white sneakers. The one I turn to most is an all-white leather sneaker, which I’ve had for a few years now. I wear this specific pair just about every day – they’re versatile and durable, so they’re winners. Currently I have six pairs of white sneakers: some are simple and others a little more fancy.
Why do you keep going back to it?
I’m very minimal in life overall. I’m all about keeping it simple. So when it comes to clothing, I tend to stick to a basic colour palette: black, grey, beige and white. In a way, having the same colour sneakers creates a “uniform” for how I approach dressing each day and I function best within those boundaries.
What key factors do you consider when buying your basics?
Quality, for sure. I know myself and once I find something I like, I will live in it. The basic will need to weather many adventures with me, so I need to ensure the quality is up to standard before I commit to bringing it home with me.
And if your basic could talk, what would it say?
“Please walk slower, it hurts!”
How do you define basics?
A basic is a dependable item with great quality. Once I’ve identified it, I never have to think of its purpose again. A “get out of bed, put it on and go” kind of piece. Put on the tee, regardless of the colour, add the sweater, put on the track pants and I start the day. All the colours go, the fit is good and the thinking is done.
So, what’s yours?
Since COVID-19, my idea of a basic has broadened. I now consider tracksuit bottoms as basics. My best is an adidas tracksuit bottom I bought four years ago. If I could find the same ones again, I’d buy another four. I bought it on a stopover in Dubai (on a 60% off sale). It’s limited edition and the best thing is the fabric: it breathes, doesn't crease and always looks the same… no knee-indentation after days of sitting behind my laptop.
Why do you keep going back to it?
Dependability and a sense of structure. I work in fashion and I am a bit obsessive. With this almost ritualistic way of dressing, they make me feel as if I free up mental space, so I don't have to decide what I "feel like" wearing. The decision is made.
What key factors do you consider when buying your basics?
Quality and fit are the most important factors and then price. I'm a big discount shopper when it comes to basics.
And if your basic could talk, what would it say?
“How about some colour? All this black is just too much.”