THE WINTER TRENCH

Unsurprisingly, a trench coat is at the top of our classics list. We’ve discussed its timeless attributes for years, but some things really are worth repeating. This one style works with so many pieces and will take you throughout the season into spring. Go for a traditional cut in camel and invest in the best quality you can. For the colder months, premium wool will keep you warm and last well. 

THE WORK BAG

With office-based working part of normality again, our wardrobes need to adapt. One of the easiest ways to make outfits feel desk-ready is with a sleek bag. The smart thing about Loewe’s Luna is that it combines black with tan, meaning you can wear it with both of those colours, as well as grey, navy, cream and even brights. The small size is smart but can still hold all the 9-5 essentials. 

THE EVERY-OCCASION SUIT

Suiting goes beyond the boardroom and provides the perfect solution for any situation when you want to look polished. Pick a two-piece in a comfortable fabric that doesn’t crease and a versatile neutral. Navy looks smart without feeling corporate. The beauty of this duo is in the ease of styling; add a shirt and loafers for the office, switch to a T-shirt and trainers when out and about. 

THE ELEVATED HIGH-TOPS

First designed in the 1920s, Converse high-tops have been a style staple for over a century and synonymous with all things preppy. This updated version retains all of the iconic looks of the originals, but has refined details, such as the faux-leather trim, which give it a sleeker edge that works for smart/casual, as well as off-duty, dress codes. Wear these with trouser suits to give them a modern twist. 

THE LUXURY TIMEPIECE 

As elevating details go, a beautifully crafted watch is perhaps the pinnacle. Breitling is a go-to for the sort of pieces you’ll wear forever, then pass down to future generations. This is a considerable investment, but one that you only need to make once so opt for a timeless style with a simple face and bracelet. The Chronomat 32 features both silver and yellow gold to go with your entire jewellery collection. 

THE PERFECT BLAZER & SMART JEANS

Like all classics, the blazer majors on versatility; there’s hardly an outfit combination it doesn’t work with. The trick to finding one you’ll wear on repeat is to be fastidious about fit and fabric – both need to be spot on. Navy works dressed up and down, so it’s a clever choice for straddling dress codes. To make yours feel current, style it with a pair of high-waisted, straight-leg jeans in deep indigo.

THE DENIM JUMPSUIT

As well as the one-step-dressing ease, the appeal of a denim jumpsuit is that it can be worn all year round. When it’s cool, slip a fine roll neck underneath and layer on a coat; during the warmer months style it with a light trench and bare ankles. Keep the silhouette clean, detailing minimal and the wash dark, and you’ll find it never feels dated. 

THE GOLD EARRINGS

It’s the balance between statement and wearable that makes these gold earrings so special. While the outsized cable links add wow factor to all of your other classics, they aren’t overly shouty, so can still be used for everyday wear. They also have a heritage appeal that gives them that timeless feel. Smarter still are the convertible links that can be reconfigured into the formation of your choice, providing a variety of styling options. 

THE LONG BOOTS

Every wardrobe will benefit from a great pair of black boots, but to ensure they stand the test of time, it’s worth looking out for a few things. Make sure the length hits just below the knee so as not to cut you off at the calf; invest in premium leather with a polished (not shiny) finish; stick to a heel height that looks elegant but remains walkable; keep them free of detailing – the exception being heritage-inspired hardware, which sings classic. 

THE KNITTED DRESS & TROPHY BELT

Knitted dressing has only become more relevant over the past few seasons. And, thanks to its effortless nature and unrivalled comfort levels, it’s a confirmed essential in the modern wardrobe. There’s a good chance you already own a jumper dress, so try giving it a refresh with a trophy belt. The Row’s oval-buckled style is elevating, yet simple enough to easily work with a whole roster of outfits. 

THE LEATHER TROUSERS & GREY KNIT

This is a formula that can be fallen back on time and again. It’s the play of texture that makes it so successful; smooth leather is the perfect counterpart to chubby knitwear. If you’re yet to invest in a pair of leather trousers, go for classic black and straight-legged. A glossy finish gives edge to daytime looks and has a modern, glamorous feel when worn in the evening – just add heels. 

THE SHOULDER BAG

Though totes and crossbodys hold their own, there’s something about shoulder bags that just screams classic. It’s all to do with the elegant shape that immediately adds polish to whatever you’re wearing. YSL’s Solferino is an intelligent choice as the size is big enough for daily essentials, yet it doesn’t overwhelm your look. Consider going for grey as an alternative to black; the softer hue can be worn all year round and works with both neutrals and brights. 

THE SPORT-LUXE TRAINERS

Trainers have undoubtedly joined the ranks of modern wardrobe classic over the past few years – it’s hard to imagine getting dressed without them. A sportier shape might not be obviously timeless, but when done in white it’s the perfect shoe to make your smarter pieces feel fresh. New Balance has mastered a simple silhouette that won’t become dated. Keep them pristine by spot-cleaning stains with a baking soda and water solution. 

THE BOARDROOM DRESS

Workwear might be back in the frame, but a demand for comfort means that 9-5 pieces also need to be a pleasure to wear. Emilia Wickstead is an expert in this field; her eye for a beautiful cut and attention to silhouette make for the sort of dresses you’ll never want to take off. This navy midi is endlessly versatile (wear it with black boots, white trainers or a colour-pop heel). It’s made from comfortable, stretch crêpe and the wrap detail creates a defined waist. 

THE WHITE SHIRT

As classics go, the white shirt is an original. We all have one hanging in our wardrobes, so take this as your cue to pull it out and integrate it back into your outfit rotation. Layer it under a blazer now (put a fine roll neck underneath if extra warmth is needed) then pair it simply with jeans and loafers next season. If you’re in need of a new one, go for good-quality cotton. A long-line, relaxed fit will stop it looking like school uniform. 

THE LOAFERS

With roots that stretch back to the 1930s, loafers have proved a timeless and practical everyday shoe. This is the style to reach for to amp up your office tailoring or pull together a jeans-and-blazer look. Spend a little more on a well-crafted pair made from premium leather and you’re guaranteed to be wearing them for years. Gucci’s classic Princetown loafers are best in class – the signature horse bit detailing gives every outfit a touch of luxe.