If your hunt for the perfect winter wardrobe is far from over (or if you’re somewhat of a completist and your quest for clothes is less a necessity, more of a constant, obsessive, pseudo-project), you may wish to turn to a specialist as the colder months start to really nip. Now, there are labels that have been making cold weather-wear and coats for over a century, as well as designers who pride themselves on their unparalleled fit and finesse, but when we’re faced with the practical and technical intricacies involved with battling really, bloody, cold temperatures – there is nothing quite like a brand that was founded with ski, snow and frostbite in mind. And you won’t find a brand more entrenched in that powder-coated world than one named after Monestier-de-Clermont, the French alpine village near Grenoble.

To invest in Moncler, though, you don’t have to live on a remote mountain top. Nor is the brand going to take your skiing skills – or lack thereof – into account before you pick up one of its down-filled items. Which is sort of the point of these pieces from their new collection: take almost 70 years’ experience in winter clothing production and add to it a modern understanding of the needs of your average, shivering city-dweller.

Of course, the red, white and blue of Moncler has been seen on fashion’s front rows and on the backs of the style cognoscenti in bars and restaurants – paired with chinos, jeans and everything in between – for quite some time now. Its logo and colour scheme have become synonymous with anyone looking to inject a bit of casual sophistication and brand heritage into their look. The pieces MR PORTER have invested in this time around – and now available to buy on site – come with all of that expertise, heritage and quality materials, but less of the fanfare. Subtlety is king. A desire to fit seamlessly into a working man’s functional wardrobe. Distinction without the branding.

Take, for instance, the Ferrandier which, on first sight, could be a smart blazer (hence why we have paired it with a striped shirt). The classic design: a lapel collar, patch pockets and welt chest-pocket nods to the world of work. The quilted nylon stretch material and bib with zipper closure, however, ensures it feels more leisurely (and confirms that you’ll be toasty whatever you’re doing). If you are looking for the same kind of warmth and sophistication, but with a little less formality – you may prefer the Zumstein. This apes the style of an overshirt, with a spread collar, chest pockets and adjustable cuffs. But, ideal for layering – we’ve popped this over a polo neck – and made from quilted, high-quality nylon stretch, this is an overshirt done the Moncler way. Padded, durable, yet slimline.

Taking no chances? Still yet to find your ideal winter shell? The Bornes coat might be for you. Covering the entire torso, and then some, the double-layer, stand collar and storm flap offer you maximum protection from the elements, while minimising the restriction you might get from a large overcoat made with wool. The sleek silhouette means you can wear this whether you’re walking through town (rucksack optional) or the countryside (you’ll almost certainly need the wooly hat). And what could be more versatile than black?

Indeed, here are three truly multipurpose winter layers for the man who still wants to do everything (even when times are tricky).