Three timeless and supremely soft pieces for the big chill.

Although fashion trends undeniably exist – trouser length, silhouette and colour are just a few examples that invariably undulate throughout the seasons – following them with anything other than a passing interest is not something that most men have time for. There are, however, certain things that are infallible to such wanton capriciousness, and will stay put no matter how violently the trend winds howl around you.

Cashmere – the inimitably soft wool sourced from the undercoats of Cashmere goats – has that rare staying power. And while you can’t put a price on timeless style, you can certainly put a price on cashmere (unfortunately though, that price is often high). On the other hand, a cashmere sweater or coat can add genuine quality, warmth and sophistication to your look, and provided you care for it well, will serve you for years. Cashmere garments will do most of the groundwork in terms of looking suave, but as with all good investments, some background reading is crucial, so we’ve outlined a few tips below.

A cashmere rollneck will blend well into most wardrobes with relative ease, especially one in a neutral shade (cashmere sweaters are almost always neutral, because designers know that investing in one requires it to be perennially wearable and versatile). Sizing is important when choosing one – too small and it will stretch and lose its shape, too big and it will look baggy, but if you hit a happy medium it’ll give you a glow that a lesser sweater can’t compete with. This grey rollneck from British tailor Hardy Amies is on the more merciful end of the financial spectrum – pair it with some decent chinos, such as this pair from Joseph, and you’ve got an outfit that will last you a good many winters to come.

A thick cashmere cardigan is what we’ll refer to as a great “transitional” piece of clothing – perfect to keep you covered in those in-between months that don’t demand a coat or jacket, but also something you can easily wear under one when they do. For the pragmatic among us, black is the safest go-to when it comes to cashmere, as the need to be on standby for anything in splashing distance isn’t quite as intense. This one from Tom Ford is ribbed to give some texture to your look, and is the kind of thing you can dress up or down depending on the occasion. Add a touch of jollity to your outfit by layering the cardigan over something a little brighter, such as this cheery red polo shirt from Burberry.

The cashmere coat is, in no uncertain terms, the Holy Grail of the male wardrobe, and potentially one of the most special (and, admittedly, expensive) items of clothing you’ll ever own. Yes, it’s the price of a family holiday, but the pay-off in aesthetic and tactical terms, plus longevity, makes it an investment that far surpasses the transience of a trip abroad. The peak lapels on this double-breasted Berluti beauty will emphasise and define your shoulders, and there’s a vent in the back to minimise restriction and maximise comfort. It goes without saying that the coat is made from impossibly soft cashmere, and comes in a colour enticingly named “Brown Sugar”. You’ll want an equally fine pair of shoes to finish this look off – try these chunky Berluti Derbies.

Shop all cashmere here