When it comes to dressing well, you should never forget the classics - a rule that applies not only to individual items but pairings, too.

Here, then, is a list of some of style's oldest and happiest marriages. They're solid as a rock, and they'll be around forever.  

1 | Peacoat and roll neck

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While a roll neck worn solo (with trousers, obviously) is a polarising menswear move, the addition of a peacoat as a top layer takes it from failed artist territory to sharp ensemble instantly. 

Opt for a black or charcoal roll neck in cashmere or merino wool with a navy peacoat on top and you're on to an alternative cold weather winner. 

2 | Dark suit and 'air' tie

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If in doubt, do like Gosling

The trouble with wearing a navy suit away from the office is that it's very, very easy to look like you're still heading to the boardroom or about to file someone's taxes, which is obviously not what we're going for.

Our always solid solution is the 'air' tie, as in no tie at all, but with your shirt fully buttoned. You keep your look smart, while attaining an air of out of office cool. 

Bear in mind this works best when your suit is cut slim with narrow lapels.

3 | Plain white t-shirt and black jeans

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If it works for Dave...

As we've mentioned before, sometimes dressing well is as simple as an inexpensive white t-shirt and a carefree attitude. But add in a pair of slim-fit black jeans and then you've really got yourself a classic look. 

4 | Navy blazer and grey wool trousers

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David Gandy, champion of the navy blazer

A navy blazer is a staple that should hang in every man's wardrobe and one that will become your most versatile go-to now that autumn has begun. 

When it comes to your lower half you can never go wrong with a pair of flat-front trousers in a heavy, dark grey wool which, unlike black or navy, will compliment the blazer instead of clashing or matching too much.

5 | Light-coloured suit and loafers

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Eddie Redmayne is a man who knows a thing or two about good tailoring

While derbies and brogues are all well and good with dark tailoring during colder months, when the weather is warmer and - inevitably - the fabric and colour of your suit is lighter, you're going to want to choose a more subtle pair of shoes to match.

While trainers are great with relaxed suiting, the original and most reliable companion is the penny loafer, prefarably worn without socks if you want that Italian 'sprezzatura' look.

And, let's be honest, who doesn't?

6 | Leather jacket and black boots

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We've already debated the relative pros and cons of leather jacket ownership, but if you are ready to take the plunge, then what you wear with your new statement piece is of particular importance.

Black jeans and unbranded t-shirts are a given, but when it comes to your footwear look no further than pair of black leather boots with a chunky commando sole. 

7 | Double-breasted blazer and a t-shirt

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While it may have come back into vogue of late, the double-breasted blazer is still one of the trickier suit styles to wear day-to-day, due its formal and slightly over the top appearance.

This is where the humble t-shirt comes in. It adds a casual element to the outfit without looking sloppy - in fact, we'd argue that there's no better way to style it. A navy DB suit with a black or off-white t-shirt worn underneath is a thing of understated beauty. 

8 | Overcoat and knitwear 

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One of the best things about the end of summer is the chance to dust off the heavy wool coat and venture out into the elements ...or to the pub at least.

And while the Scandinavians may have shown us that your signature Power Coat can be worn with pretty much everything and anything, the ultimate under layer is still a dark piece of knitwear in either a fine merino or thick ribbed wool. 

Headshot of Finlay Renwick
Finlay Renwick
Deputy Style Editor
Mother, blogger, vegan, model, liar