Men's Clothing

The best buy-it-for-life men's clothing brands use tough natural fibres, reinforced stitching, and offer repair support or guarantees. Think heavyweight organic cotton, wool, and brands that test for abrasion and wash durability. A lifetime guarantee or in-house repairs is a solid sign they mean business. Triple-stitched seams and bar-tacked stress points help garments shrug off wear and tear. Some brands even pre-test for machine washing. It’s all about fewer replacements, better value, and less landfill. Here’s how we research products to make sure they’re worth your wardrobe space.

To care for long-lasting menswear properly, wash sparingly on a cool cycle with gentle detergent. Hot water can break down fibres quicker than you can say “shrinkage.” Air dry when possible and fold knits to avoid a saggy neckline. Spot-clean wool or denim and give them a breather between wears. Scrubbing less actually keeps clothes looking better, for longer. Many brands also offer tailored care tips. Need a full lowdown? Pop over to our blog on how to make your clothes last longer.

Materials that make clothing more durable and sustainable include heavyweight organic cotton, wool, hemp, and linen. They’re strong, breathable, and will break down naturally when their time’s up. Keep an eye out for responsible certifications like GOTS or OEKO-TEX. Recycled fibres can be a good bet too, though quality varies. Sometimes a touch of synthetic helps in high-wear spots - like cuffs or knees - without turning your outfit into a science experiment.

Sizing across different ethical brands can vary, especially from smaller makers who don’t stick strictly to high-street norms. Always check the specific size guide - many list garment measurements to help you get it spot-on. Natural fibres may shrink a tad, especially if you forget and chuck them in a hot wash. Some brands pre-wash to sidestep this. When in doubt, go by your actual body measurements rather than standard sizes. A good fit means you’ll reach for it again and again.

Yes, smart-casual options last as long as basics if they’re made with proper craftsmanship. Think robust oxford shirts, wool or hemp blazers, and well-cut trousers with strong seams. You’ll want timeless cuts and neutral colours so you’re not out of style by next Tuesday. Look for thoughtful finishes like reinforced buttonholes or lined collars - small touches that go the distance. Our durable menswear collection has long-wearing pieces that dress up as easily as they dress down.

Timeless design is better than fast fashion because it’s not built for a five-minute catwalk. Classic cuts, clean lines, and versatile colours stay stylish for years, not seasons. That means less new shopping and more useful mix-and-match options. Fast fashion often skimps on fabric and stitching just to chase trends - so it unravels both literally and figuratively. A timeless piece costs more up front but pays its way in the long run, like a good pair of jeans that never quits.

Yes, repair support is often available for ethical men’s clothing. Many brands offer spare parts like buttons or thread, and some even include repair guides or send-off services. A lucky few, like Johnstons, provide lifetime repairs - which is no small thing. Clothes made with mendable features like reinforced seams or replaceable fastenings are far easier to fix when needed. Repairing keeps your favourites going and keeps waste out of the bin. Our Product Care and Repair hub has plenty of tips to get you started.