At the moment, although it is cold, it is more anecdotally cold than genuinely cold. The kind of cold that causes you to say “oh it’s a bit cold, isn’t it?” Which is done at bus stops to fill silences, or when queuing for coffee at work. Usefully cold, too, then. And it’s a satisfying type of cold that requires you to wear a jacket and offers a bracing, restorative chill when you leave the house in the morning.

All is well with the cold levels at present then. All is well, at least, until the mercury really starts to plummet in a month or so. Those cheery conversations will soon turn into torrid tales of woe and misery. That journey to work will become a shivering battle – a dour odyssey, rather than an easy commute. What we’re saying is, things will get a lot less fun. Unless you are prepared, that is. Go into battle with the below and avoid getting caught out in the cold.

Your first line of defence in the excruciating cold is a coat. But not just any old coat. A coat equipped to battle severe elements, not there to merely make you look good in front of your friends. A coat made of stronger stuff than a flimsy mac or a timid trench. This one by Helbers is more than up to the task. It brings warmth with the quilted sections at the front (and the shearling interior). There is practicality in the drawstring on the interior. And then there is a flourish of style with the leather panels. This is a coat that is equipped for anything.

Your second line of defence is, of course, a trusty sweater. We’re choosing on from Eidos – the Italian brand known for fantastic production undertaken in small family-run workshops. Its rollneck sweater is a wool/cashmere blend, so it will provide ample protection from the cold while making you feel extra warm and fuzzy from your neck down to your waistband. What’s more, it has been made with subtle flecks of different coloured yarn to make it extra easy on the eye. Robust and handsome – what more could you want?

And now – the feet. Not only does deep winter weather bring cold, it also brings wet. So, let these boots from J.Crew step up and take centre stage in any plans that may involve leaving the house. Those hook eyelets make them look intrepid, but there is substance to back up appearances. Goodyear-welted soles made with rubber is just about the perfect match of strength and grip. And that cognac leather, if treated with a dab of dubbin, will not only protect your feet from the elements, but also the weather, and develop into a pleasing patina. Arming yourself for bad weather has never looked so good.