Most of us like to think we’ve got this getting dressed thing sussed. We’ve read the runway reports, swotted up on key fashion trends and even coughed up for a Cuban collar or two. Surely that’s enough to be inducted into club menswear?

Not quite. Given that a look is only as good as its weakest link, it’s equally as important to ensure you’re stocked up on the timeless staples that return year after year.

To save you from rummaging through the leftovers of more savvy shoppers, here are 21 always-in-style items to get you ahead of the herd before spring, well, springs.

Overshirt

Ideal for times when it’s neither too warm nor too cool (read: practically every outdoor event between now and June) an overshirt is one of the unsung heroes of menswear. Bought with a roomy but structured cut, it can be layered beneath outerwear now or be worn as your top layer when the intermittent sun makes it time to leave your jacket at home.

Oxford Shirt

The Oxford shirt has got all-rounder status written all over it. Capable of smartening up jeans in one outfit and dressing down sharp tailoring in the next; if you haven’t got one yet, look for a weighty fabric that’s cut slim and watch in amazement as nailing transitional style gets a whole lot easier.

White T-Shirt

It may be hard to distinguish one plain white T-shirt from the next at first glance, but pull it onto your torso and the difference becomes immediately clear. When stocking up on this most basic of basics, look for a snug (but not too snug) fit with sleeves that hit around the halfway point on your upper arm and, if your budget allows, opt for soft Supima cotton.

Grey Sweatshirt

No harm could ever come from owning a classic sweatshirt in every shade. But in the interest of time and money, we’re putting all our eggs firmly in the basket of the original sportswear staple. A grey marl version cut from soft loopback cotton-jersey scores big, particularly when worn with a pair of sand chinos for ultimate Paul Newman vibes.