I am a huge fan of Everyday Carry items. EDC items are essential objects that people carry with them daily. EDC doesn’t just apply to the things that you stuff into your pockets but items you take with you in your backpack, fanny pack, or laptop bag.
The idea of EDC comes down to practicality, preparedness, and STYLE. This is why I love the EDC community – they actively analyze the items they find essential as well as matching it to their own aesthetic. In this community, you’ll find some of the most well-dressed men with matching (that’s right…matching!) accessories.
Now let’s take a look at my ideal EDC.
(This is a series I hope to continue – let me know what your current favorite EDC items are and I will include them in future EDC posts.)
***I own most but not all of these items but if I put them in a post-it means they are on my wishlist.***
The Basics of Everyday Carry (EDC):
- Phone
- Wallet
- Pen
- Sunglasses
- Watch
- Headphones/Earbuds
- Bag
- Keys
- Knife
Now these are JUST the basics – you can fill your EDC with whatever you want. For example, in my backpack I carry an extra black t-shirt, gym pants, deodorant, face wipes, tooth brush, mouth wash & advil. Additionally I have a battery pack for my phone and a lightning cable. These items all live in one packing cube that take up next to no room in my bag leaving me plenty of space for anything else I may need to take with me.
1. Phone
iPhone Case – Black Leather
My current phone is an iPhone XS.
Right now all of my tech devices have a black case on them. The overarching aesthetic of my EDC is – all black and a mix of grey. You’ll see this throughout the rest of the article.
2. Wallet
Montblanc Sartorial Pocket 5cc
I don’t have this wallet but it’s my next addition. This Montblanc card holder is beautiful and functional. I will admit I am on the Minimalist bandwagon. I no longer have things in my wallet that I don’t need. All I need is a few cards to get by.
3. Pen
Fisher Space NonReflective Military Cap-O-Matic Space Pen, Matte Black
“Hey, do you have a pen?”
Not having a pen when you or someone else needs one is a mild inconvenience – I avoid this nuisance by bringing this space with me.
4. Sunglasses
CLUBMASTER METAL
Club Masters are essential because they work with any outfit. (Love the weight of these glasses.)
5. Watch
Michael Kors Men’s Lexington Chronograph Stainless Steel Watch
At this point, I’m attempting to place this watch into as many posts as I can! Check out this post here if you want to see how I incorporate this watch into outfits.
6. Headphones/Earphones
AirPods with Charging Case
Gym, walking, work, watching a video on the go (attempting to ignore someone) – I NEED these with me all the time.
Big podcast guy here – any recommendations? Comment below to let me know.
7. Bag
ONE PACK . OFF GREY
I am obsessed with this cross body bag! If you read my last post about work bags you know I love bags in general.
This will soon be mine.
I am not a fanny pack guy but a bag like this is something I can see myself using every day.
8. Keys
The Key Dangler
Simple. Noninvasive. Minimalistic. EASY. I swear by these key danglers because they don’t ruin your belt loops and they make it very easy to go out without having to put your keys in your pocket.
8. Knives
The Case “Sharp” Knife
Thin and perfect for any pocket. Simple and works with all EDC items. Knives are an EDC staple and you should have one that matches your personality and style.
(Editor’s note: RHMen does not advocate you carry a knife for any reason outside of your “Trade, calling or profession.” Please be aware of local laws and ordinances regarding carrying a knife)
The best part about EDC is it’s all about YOUR personality. Find items that are useful to you and that make sense for your particular style and aesthetic.
Drink water,
Conor
