A Melbourne stylist shares their wardrobe staples

“Well-constructed, timeless pieces and items with real longevity.”

For stylists, a well-balanced wardrobe is all about versatility, functionality and (of course) a consistent, thoughtful aesthetic. An outfit needs to have the ability to go from an all-day shoot to a nighttime launch event, remaining practical while still representing a strong sense of personal style.

And after over a decade working in the fashion industry, Melbourne-based stylist and creative director Carlos Mangubat has got his wardrobe essentials down pat. From a $15 Holeproof white singlet and a trusty pair of Adidas shorts to high-quality black Prada loafers, Carlos’ everyday staples are “well-constructed, timeless pieces and items with real longevity… [pieces] that don’t wear too easily and feel as though they would last”.

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Primarily existing within a colour palette of black, white and neutrals, Carlos’ wardrobe essentials adhere to his minimal aesthetic. He prioritises “versatility across seasons”, favouring items that can be layered and paired back with “many items in your wardrobe”. Below, he shares his top six wardrobe essentials – from Homme Plissé pants to a classic Burberry trench.

A vintage soccer jersey

A vintage soccer jersey is “casual but also a statement,” Carlos tells me. “I love to throw [a soccer jersey] on a plain outfit. For example, with other sportswear [like] black cargo-style skate trousers or sports shorts.” Here, he’s wearing a bright orange jersey with another favourite – a pair of Gucci slides.

”[They’re] super comfortable and more of a subtle flex than a croc!” Carlos says. “I wear these with literally anything and everything. Super comfy for the set or walking to the shops.”

Anything Homme Plisse

Carlos describes Issey Miyake’s men’s line, Homme Plissé, as “easy to throw on [and] suitable for many occasions”. As he’s frequently on the go, Carlos loves the pleated pieces for their steam-free wearability, making them ideal for travel.

“I love to pair these pieces with either [other Issey Miyake pieces] and/or oversized shirts, oversized hoodies and my Rick Owens shoes. I buy these garments two sizes too big for a baggy, looser-fitting aesthetic.”

Prada loafers

Paired here with a check button-down and a timeless white singlet, Carlos describes his Prada loafers as a “classic shoe that goes with everything”. Enough said. “If I’m going casual, I’ll pair them with sports shorts, a T-shirt and a bomber. If I’m going to an event, they’re paired with a suit trousers, a shirt and a coat. For the club, I pair them with some cargos and a singlet!”

Holeproof singlet and Adidas shorts

“In summer, this is all I basically wear,” Carlos says of his singlet-and-shorts pairing. “I’m all about comfort (I also sweat a lot).” While his favourite white Holeproof is usually paired with sports shorts, Carlos also sometimes wears an “all-white look with white Stan Ray pants and Converse All Stars”.

Burberry Macintosh Coat

“This is a staple for any wardrobe,” Carlos says of his Burberry Macintosh Coat. Paired with black leather loafers, a simple white button-up, a Prada crossbody bag and timeless tailored pants, this look is “clean, classic, neutral (and can also hide an ugly/weak outfit underneath). I could literally throw this on over any outfit, [for example] a clean, smart-casual look with a shirt and suit trousers, or shorts with a hoodie and high socks.”

Prada shirts

Prada’s hyper-colour, graphic button-downs are one of the more colourful favourites in Carlos’ wardrobe. “I love the silhouette and again, it’s easy to throw on with neutral bottoms and accessories. I tend to wear [shirts like] these more to events!”

For more on building your collection of wardrobe essentials, head here.