Here are my 7 key pieces for your capsule wardrobe - things that offer versatility and are classic in style. Take advantage of the end of the sales to buy good quality items that will last.

A white shirt

White long sleeved cotton poplin shirt - Lanvin at Matches - £200 down to £120

A white shirt should be a staple in every man's wardrobe. Look for one that's fitted with a regular collar rather than cutaway, that will go just as well with jeans as with tailored trousers. If you have very broad shoulders and a slim torso, look for one with some stretch in it to get a better fit. Remember to match the collar size to your physique in order to create balance - smaller if you are very slim and regular or larger if you are a little on the chunky side.

A cashmere sweater

Grey cashmere round neck jumper - Johnstons of Elgin - £249 down to £149

A simple fitted cashmere sweater in a crew or v-neck will see you through winter and if you live in the UK, possibly summer too! A neutral colour like grey or navy will go with most other things in your wardrobe. It looks good with a t-shirt underneath and jeans or can be used for a smarter look with a shirt and blazer too. Ensure you de-bobble it regularly and put some moth deterrent in your wardrobe to make sure the little blighters don't dine out on it.

Dark jeans

Levi's Made & Crafted Tack Slim Selvedge jeans at Trouva - £160 down to £96

A dark indigo pair of jeans with a "clean" wash (ie: no fake aging) is an essential in your wardrobe. Spend time trying different brands on to find a pair that fit really well. If they're too long, ensure you get them altered properly - ask your tailor to keep the original hem which will be slightly distressed, rather than turning it up and stitching it which tends to look a bit naff. (See here for an example of how it's done). Alternatively an easier way is to just wear them with turn ups but be aware if you're short or have short legs that this will further shorten them.

Chinos

Aros slim light twill chino - Norse Projects at End Clothing - £100 down to £69

Look for a flat front, which fit well on the waist (ie. you don’t need to bunch them in with a belt), and hug your bottom without being too tight. There are many slight variations in chinos which make them smarter or more casual - the stiffness of the fabric, top-stitching, whether or not they have a crease down the front. Choose a pair that can cross over from smart to casual and will look good with trainers as well as a pair of brogues or smarter shoes.

A smart casual jacket

Fox Brothers British peacoat at Jigsaw - £329 down to £164

The most versatile jacket is one that can be put over some flannel trousers or with jeans and look good with both. I find a lot of men don't have this in their wardrobe and it's a good bridge between a formal overcoat and a technical waterproof jacket. My favourite choices would be a peacoat, short mac or bomber jacket.

Brogues

Tan brougues from Trickers - £375 down to £260

Yet another thing that will be infinitely useful in your wardrobe is a pair of brogues. I would opt for tan or brown over black so they can be used for formal or casual occasions. And did you know, that the punched holes were originally there to let the water drain out after wearing in wet marshy lands?!

Accessories

Navy MS Sprint backpack by Mismo at Opumo - £420 down to £280

It's really worth paying attention to your accessories - I was reading an article on Permanent Style recently which said you can upgrade an inexpensive suit with good quality accessories and I heartily agree. Whether it's for your business wardrobe, casual or in between, build up your range of accessories with one or two pieces each season. This could be a great bag, simple stylish cufflinks, some subtly patterned socks, or a pocket square. It'll mark you out as a well dressed men when you take care of the details.

If you'd like some help putting together a capsule wardrobe or adding to what you already have, then please do get in touch about a Personal Shopping trip.