The founder and CEO of Mr. Slimfit on the five key items that elevate a winter wardrobe

We’ve spoken at length about how to build a winter wardrobe that covers all the critical bases. Now, once you’ve established such
a wardrobe, you have the opportunity to add pieces that may be slightly more pricey but are going to last a lifetime with the right type of care. These are the five pieces I’d recommend all men should consider. 

Raw selvedge denim jeans  
This is ideal for winter because they are made from a heavy fabric that hasn’t been pre-washed, which softens and thins the fabric. This is not to say that they’re uncomfortable to wear. They will mould comfortably to your body over time. The weight will help you resist the cold and wind that come with winter, and they’ll last you a lifetime if cared for properly.

Welt boots 
These shoes are the gold standard in footwear construction. The method is time-consuming and challenging to master and therefore makes such shoes more expensive than shoes made using other methods. However, this method of construction creates a tightly-crafted boot that is water-resistant and wearable for years to come. Traditional shoemaking glues the upper directly to the outsole. This makes it nearly impossible to resole a shoe once it wears down. By glueing the welt – a long strip of leather, about one centimetre wide that sits between the upper and the outsole – first to the upper and then stitching the welt to the outsole, the shoe is easily resoleable and becomes virtually waterproof. Look after the upper well, and you have boots for life.

Pure wool overcoat
This is much warmer than synthetic fabrics and will stay looking newer for longer. Opt for a neutral colour that works well with the majority of what you have in your wardrobe. Opt for single-breasted and choose a length that ends mid-thigh or an inch above the knee to allow you the versatility to style it formally, smart-casually, or casually.

Merino wool polo necks
This is a cheaper alternative to cashmere but looks as good and gives you a robust, versatile wear. These are excellent for layering and can work well with everything from suits to denim jackets.

A high-quality leather jacket 
I’m done buying fast-fashion versions of this. The cost-to-wear ratio just doesn’t make sense anymore. Cheaper alternatives peel, and have a lifespan of two years. Investing in a cowhide, napa, or lambskin leather jacket will save you money in the long run. There are two primary styles – biker or bomber – and the one you choose will depend largely on your personal style. Bikers give you the option of an edgier look, and is slightly more versatile when it comes to how you style them. A tip when establishing the quality of leather: Run your nail along the leather gently. If it leaves a light trail, you’re dealing with high-quality, genuine leather. 

Photography: hmimages.co.za, Courtesy Images