Fond as we are of this season’s trending pieces (the FashionBeans editorial team has rarely been seen out of a hiking boot since September), if you haven’t purchased any of them by now, it’s a little day late and a dollar short. Especially when you consider that the menswear world will likely have found another noble pastime to siphon from by the time next winter rolls around.

But what if we told you there are a handful of buy-now, wear-forever pieces that clinch the cost-per-wear ratio and provide a future-proof foundation for just about any look, no matter when you buy them? That’s what we’re about to do, with a guide to the classic pieces no foolproof wardrobe is complete without.

A Wool Overcoat

When the mercury dips, the savvy dresser’s first thought should be whether he is equipped with a winter coat in which he can look good, even when the weather’s not.

An overcoat is the most versatile option, striking a balance between form and function whether on- or off-duty. Manmade fabrics don’t fare well in the rain so plump for 100 percent wool, which can absorb 35 percent of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet. If monsoon season pushes it past that point, leave the coat to dry naturally overnight. And consider investing in an umbrella.

Recommended

Dark Denim

Winter is often a dark affair, so your jeans should match. White styles had their time in the sun (quite literally), but deep indigo and black shades pair best with bruised skies.

Selvedge denim is hard-wearing and (so long as your jeans are cut slim, and you’ve ignored the trend for torn knees) works just as well with a double-breasted blazer as a crew neck sweatshirt.

Recommended

Wool Socks

Feet need layers, too, and even the best boots sometimes aren’t enough to keep them warm. Your everyday socks just aren’t going to cut it in winter because when lightweight materials like cotton get wet, whether through sweat or an unspotted puddle, they lose their ability to insulate.