>>10543967First of all read, the sticky.
After that, get yourself a copy of the Esquire Handbook of Style. It's not complete #menswear, but read it with a grain of salt regardless. It will give you a good introduction to formalwear, which I'm assuming you don't have an incredible grasp on because you just got out of high school.
Now, to answer your question more directly, I prescribe the following:
Shirts:
>White T (no graphics)>Light grey heather T (no graphics)>Dark charcoal heather T (no graphics)>Black T (no graphics)>Two white oxford dress shirts (no pockets)>White and grey seersucker dress shirt (no pockets)Layers:
>Grey V neck sweater>Black turtleneck sweater>Grey hoodie (no graphics)Jackets:
>Black leather jacket (asymmetrical zip if you like)>Unlined light grey heather blazer (preferably cotton or linen blend)>Black or khaki parka>Charcoal suit jacketPants:
>Navy blue chinos>Medium charcoal chinos>Stone khaki chinos>Charcoal suit pantsFootwear:
>Black oxford dress shoes>Black chelsea boots>Black canvas high tops>White canvas high topsAccessories:
>Ray ban wayfarers>Thick dark brown leather work belt>Thin black leather dress belt>Black tie>Deep blue tie>White pocket squares>Deep blue pocket square>Gold pocket square>Dress watch with NATO strap of your likingYou must understand how a particular piece "belongs" with you in a stylistic sense. Too many people are dominated by the isolated appearance of a piece of clothing they happen upon, and, after buying it, are all of a sudden disappointed when they come to realise that it goes against many of their subconscious stylistic values.
Envision your aesthetic. Understand why it appeals to you. Learn how pieces interact in an outfit. Buy only what you know you will keep.
Keep a style journal. Note down prices. Debate pros and cons with yourself. Write short essays on your personal style. I've done it. It works.
