It's getting pretty chilly around here and winter is definitely creeping in, despite random patches of slightly warmer temps and an optimistic bikini sighting in Regents Park.
Every guy should have certain wardrobe basics ready to roll when the colder seasons take over. Check these off your list and you'll go from the office, to the weekend, to parties and events, looking stylish, feeling comfortable and maintaining appropriate attire, whatever the occasion. It's worth investing in some great custom-made basics with your tailor (or some brands even offer this service). You'll be surprised how cost effective it can be, versus off the rack options, and if it's made especially for you, the fit (important!) will be spot on - once you've got the essentials down, you'll always look great.
A white button down shirt
The classic men’s clothing mainstay for summer and winter alike. Goes with everything, can be dressed up or down, and no man does not suit the colour white, even if he's not Don Draper.
A pale blue shirt
A close cousin of the white shirt, but a little more interesting. Most men suit some shade of blue, so find the one that works for you and make it part of your regular wardrobe. Recommended for meeting your girlfriend's parents for the first time.
A cashmere jumper
Simple, warm and like the shirts above, goes down well as both casual or smarter wear. Good with either t-shirts or collared shirts, and smarter and slicker than a hoodie. Truthfully, it looks a million times better, too. Sure, hoodies have their place, but please know where that place is (clue: if kebabs are involved, it's a hoodie moment. If you're in a nice restaurant, it is not).
Wool flannel trousers
These match nearly anything, the comfort factor is high (big points), they look stylish (bigger points) and they keep you warm. Though they used to be a staple wardrobe item for men, they’re not so easily available off the rack these days, so have a pair made for you that fit you perfectly - you can’t go wrong and it’s actually not that expensive to have done.
A navy suit
Every man needs a suit. Navy is elegant and avoids the old 'I'm-going-to-a-funeral' vibe that many black suits give off. It’s a timeless colour choice for suiting that will never look old-fashioned or outlandish. We love one with a little patterning, like the wool pinstripe fabric below.
A flannel suit
Elegant suiting is the name of the game, otherwise what's the point, right? A great flannel suit looks stylish and sleek, and it's warm! No need to freeze through those winter weddings.
Dark jeans
Sure, more tailored trousers are a must-have, but sometimes, only jeans look right, feel right and hit the tone you’re after. A dark denim is more versatile than light as it can look a little smarter if necessary. Becks has dress shoes on here, but this look would work just as well with trainers, for a romantic round of mini golf with Victoria.
Bomber jacket
Works well over collared shirts, tees, sweaters – pretty much any standard top. It’s casual but not hoodie-casual, it’s comfortable, and it’s a timeless style. Get a bomber jacket.
Wool/cashmere coat
Sometimes it’s freezing, and you want to look classy, smart and well-dressed, whilst staying warm. Not always the easiest feat, but if you invest in an overcoat made with proper wool, cashmere or a blend of the two, you'll tick all of those boxes. Again, muted, elegant tones are always in style and will go with most things you’d wear underneath it. Black is the most popular colour of course, but you can also try olive greens, browns, greys and navies. Never let a bone-chilling wind ruin your style again!
