It’s not often you can eye up a catwalk trend, then ransack your bank account safe in the knowledge that you’re investing in an ageless menswear classic. You can this season, however. The check coat is fashion’s must-have piece of outerwear. A natural people pleaser, this style of coat is both a trend and an evergreen staple, so whether you’re a Grailed-addicted scumbro or a dedicated follower of heritage menswear, checks are fair and square and everywhere.

That versatility is grounded in the fact that you can dial them up or down as your style dictates. One of the few patterns that doesn’t look ridiculous on tailoring, checks can be a subtle embellishment or a screaming centrepiece. Houndstooth, Prince of Wales, tartan and Madras styles all say different things and designers have practically wallpapered their collections with them for the months ahead.

Kenzo played it smart and traditional, Versace went technicolour, and Burberry did a bit of both. There were big checks and little checks, tailored Harrington jackets and belted oversized overcoats. And unlike, say, leather trousers or luxury balaclavas (both real, both awful), this is a trend for everyone.

“There are so many ways to wear a check coat,” says ASOS head of menswear design Nick Eley. “They can be dressed up, worn with a smart wide-leg trouser, a roll neck and a clean white pair of sneakers, or dressed high-low with a pair of mid-wash jeans, a hoodie and a pair of dad trainers.”

The structured symmetry of checks means they’re flattering on all but the broadest of body types (who would benefit better from a narrow pinstripe or single dark color). And while bold patterns are traditionally paired with muted outfits, menswear is increasingly coming out of its shell. Go crazy, says Mr. Porter style director Olie Arnold. “The difference this season is the emergence of clashing check patterns styled across one look or within one garment – a great way to add not-so-subtle texture to a winter outfit.”