The ideal wardrobe

Don’t hold back. As a first purchase, the simplest and most efficient thing to get is a navy blue, plain or caviar weave iTravel wool suit.

Elegant, sober and warm, it will go with everything and will always have its proper place. But it wouldn’t be unwise, quite the contrary in fact, to alternate it with a second ensemble, lighter, but no less elegant. As it happens we think a grey flannel or carded wool suit would fit the bill.

Then it’s also good to own a dark blazer that you can easily wear with jeans, for a more relaxed - but far from neglected – look. A trio of knits in cashmere or merino wool (a round neck, a V-neck and a cardigan), a parka and a beige or navy raincoat closes the case, guaranteeing comfort and warmth.

Welcome the arrival of warmer weather by buying a lightweight costume.

To start with opt for an essential ensemble in navy cotton; you simply can’t live without it. Next procure a striped cotton seersucker blazer and a darker unlined jacket that can be worn with two pairs of cotton chinos, one in beige and the other navy. A couple of round or V-neck sweaters will prove vital in case of inclement meteorology. And God knows these can be frequent…

However if chance is on your side, you won’t regret investing in two light-coloured polo shirts in cotton piqué, and a pair of Bermuda shorts which look perfectly good in a shade of chestnut.

When it comes to shirts we naturally recommend choosing quality pieces, but not necessarily to the detriment of quantity.

Because remember that those who hold their heads high don’t wear the same shirt two days in a row. So, two white Egyptian cotton poplin shirts, two blue Prince of Wales check (also in Egyptian cotton) and two striped or small checked will see you through the week with elegance. And since you’ll be needing as many ties as shirts don’t hesitate to vary the pleasure and have some fun with two knitted ties, two plain weave and two patterned.

In terms of colour, navy – why not embellished with a floral print on madder silk – grey, green and burgundy are the natural choices. Denim careens through all the seasons, so complete the base of your wardrobe with a pair of slim cut Larus Miani cotton and elastane trousers.

For important evenings, it’s not worth skimping.

Get yourself a real tuxedo, which we recommend you take in black wool faille, to avoid any inconvenience. It should be completed with a hidden placket shirt in Egyptian cotton and a bow tie in black or Swiss dot black on white for the more daring.

Please note that our designs are pre-tied. Which is good news. As any man who has attempted to do their own bow tie will confirm.

To move through life on a sure footing, we suggest the acquisition of two pairs of elegant brogues (one in brown, to wear to work, and one in black, also suitable for more formal occasions) and a pair of brown derbies with a thick sole or perforated toe cap, for a slightly more relaxed look.

Finally buy one or two pairs of white sneakers for the weekend. In winter they should be in leather, and for summer, in canvas.