Now free from its old, stuffy connotations, the cardigan may just be the key to nail those awkward months in-between seasons. An essential for right now, basically, when it gets chilly, but still too warm to go all out with a winter coat. Keep the silhouette classic, but opt for comforting fabrics such as cashmere, alpaca or mohair. Our Buying Manager, George Archer, suggests considering zip-throughs, too. “Given their versatility, they can be worn over a vest on a summer evening, as a transitional jacket during fall, and layered under a jacket in the winter months,” he says.

Likely the most versatile style in the bag world, the tote comes in many guises. But forget the canvas carriers you’ve had for years. We’re talking about their luxurious sisters, the ones that are worth the big investment – and perhaps that can even replace your briefcase on your daily commute. “For your day-to-day, look for something that fits a laptop, an extra layer and your personal belongings without being too bulky,” Archer says. “Consider a multi-purpose design that can be styled in different ways, too – worn crossbody, on your shoulder, or to hold.”

The spectrum of suede and leather jackets spans far and wide, but there are a few silhouettes that are unlikely to ever go out of style, so we’ll narrow down the options to bikers, bombers and blousons for ease. The classic biker exemplifies rugged sophistication, so swapping black leather for a tactile suede will add a touch of extra refinement. Blousons and bombers are somewhat of a cross-over, but what’s certain is that most designers have posed their own take on the classic this season. “Current iterations of the bomber jacket often take their cues from decades’ worth of history and references, proving an ability to withstand the test of time,” says Joss Long, MR PORTER’s Senior Buyer. “In particular, styles that are collared and elevated in luxe suedes or leathers are even easier to incorporate into your daily wardrobe.”

“The best denim shirt for me is a slightly broken-in western,” says Sophie Genn, MR PORTER Buyer. “You’ll avoid the stiffness of a raw denim shirt, and the classic Americana details – the ‘smile’ pockets or the pearlescent snap buttons – will pop a bit more.” If you’re not planning a ranch holiday anytime soon, you can go two ways with it: opt for contemporary Americana specialists KAPITAL and RRL or go for more pared-back takes from the likes of ZEGNA, LOEWE and SAINT LAURENT.

When do you not need a great pair of jeans? The trick here is to keep it on the regular-cut side, so that they’ll be fairly adaptable for most intents and purposes. “It’s hard to beat a pair of straight-leg raw, rinsed once at most, Japanese selvedge jeans,” Genn says. “You can wear them with smart shoes out to dinner – they will never fail the pub test. The added bonus is that if you really do wear them every day, they’ll develop their own unique fades over time. Then you can justify buying another pair.”

Perhaps the most essential of all essentials, the classic white tee is unbeatable. But not all are made equal. Prioritise the best fabrics – a premium cotton at the very least. And brands such as Massimo Alba, Sunspel and Mr P. a great source for that. “My solution to find a tee that’s truly deserving of the term essential would be to opt for a style that would look as good 40 years ago as it would now,” Genn says. “Skip the longlines and the boxy crops, stick with a classic fitting, plain cut, 100 per cent Supima cotton – or Sea Island cotton. If it comes in a multi-pack, even better.”

The navy blazer remains one of the most stylish and versatile items in a man’s wardrobe. So it’s not at all surprising if picking the right one – one that should serve most purposes and occasions – can sound like a challenge. “Whether double or single breasted, a soft construction and mid-weight fabric give you the freedom to style it year-round,” Archer says. Everyone from storied Italian houses to Drake’s, Stòffa and Sunspel prove that the navy blazer works just as well with suit trousers and a tie, as it does with jeans and a chambray shirt – no small feat when trying to navigate today’s smart-casual dress codes.

The role of a good pair of sunglasses can never be overstated, but it’s crucial to get the vibe right. For 2025, it’s all about vintage-looking, steezy frames. “Everyone is wearing Jacques Marie Mage, and for good reason,” Archer says. “It’s like buying a piece of jewellery – they’re sure to last you your lifetime, given how well they are made. And they always look the part, whether for a day out at the weekend or with a suit.”

Even the simplest of outfits can be finessed, but you need to get the details right. A pared-back gold chain – or a couple of them layered over one another, if you’re feeling confident – and a classic signet ring are the basis of a well-curated jewellery collection. On the wrist, you’ll need a fun, wear-anywhere watch – a NOMOS Glashütte, for instance, or a sports piece from IWC Schaffhausen – and something to wear when you need to take things up a notch. Dress and work watches from Hermès Timepieces, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Cartier will look the part, even if just with a T-shirt and jeans.

Right now, classic penny loafers are right on the money. “Recent iterations with slimmer profiles, almond-toe shapes and additional character details, such as ruching or elevated materials, have allowed them to exist equally as a casual everyday style to pair with jeans and a T-shirt, as well as a more interesting formal option,” Archer says. Sebago may still be one of the best sources for the traditional, low-slung shape, adored by the likes of Paul Newman and Miles Davis, but don’t overlook Gucci’s horsebit styles, SAINT LAURENT and Mr P.