In a world of burning rainforests, populist politicians and a potential hard Brexit, a neutral position probably won’t win you any friends. Pulling a Switzerland when it comes to the colours of your outfit, however, can be a clever move; worn well, the beiges, greys, khakis and camels in your wardrobe can be the most hardworking pieces you own. Here are five of our favourites below, and a few tips on how wear them.

If you thought beige ran the risk of being the most boring shade on the spectrum, you’ve obviously not met this military-inspired utility vest from John Elliott. Its distressed, frayed edges give it a well-worn look, and the cotton is brilliantly soft and light. Wear it over a cream tee and with black or navy trousers to add a shrewd point of difference to a simple look.

Jacquemus is good at refining the details of its clothes, and this overshirt is no exception. Inspired by the kind of traditional farmer garb you’d find in rural France, the brand’s latest collection is a rustic feast of beige. Look closely at this shirt and you’ll see the jacquard embroidery resembles ears of corn – cute. The label’s clothes generally go well with most things thanks to their flattering shapes and colours, but why not just wear more Jacquemus? Pair this shirt with the brand’s corduroy cargo pants to continue the well-dressed-farmer-with-lots-of-pockets theme.

A grey T-shirt might not sound like an exciting addition to your wardrobe, but you haven’t met this one yet. From the LA-based brand BILLY, this dusty-coloured tee is crafted from wonderfully soft Japanese cotton, and has an old-country American vibe that will look equally at home on a ranch as it will in the city. Wear it with a pair of worn-in denim jeans or this moody pair of BILLY canvas trousers to keep things cool and casual.

Cargo pants are named thus because, as you might have guessed, they’re designed to help you carry things. Having grown in popularity in recent seasons, the once resolutely unfashionable trouser has become a darling of the streetwear world. We’re particularly fond of this khaki pair from Reese Cooper®. Cut from a tough-wearing cotton twill and with an easy, straight-leg fit, these trousers can be used to temper a bright sweater, and look great teamed with a pair of Converse sneakers. They have a rather ridiculous eight pockets too; just try to remember where you’ve put your keys.

Billionaire Boys Club is a recent addition to MR PORTER’s brand roster, and is known more for its sartorial boldness than for subtle neutrals. But we think this scout-inspired moleskin shirt offers the best of both worlds. Wear in the city rather than in the wilderness, and pair with a cheery T-shirt to bring out the colours of the appliqué badges.