Men’s fashion trends come and go but wardrobe staples are forever. These classic pieces are our sartorial saviours because they always fit the bill. Plus they are easy to pair, won’t go out of style and last a lifetime. So here’s our list of the top 10 items that every guy needs in his closet. Trust us, it will make deciding what to wear a piece of cake.

1. Tailored Suit

The number one item in a man’s closet is arguably a stylish, tailored suit. Go for a close fit in a classic silhouette with contemporary features. The suit should complement your body shape, posture and the natural way you move. If you feel the urge to express yourself, do it subtly via the pocket shape, inside lining or buttons. Both the one below and in our cover photo are from Paul Smith: what can we say? We're suckers for the colourful inside lining.

2. White Shirt

A crisp white shirt is the ultimate mix and match garment. Unfortunately, not all are created equal. Remember that this hue doesn’t hide anything – including inferior quality and bad taste. So take the time to choose carefully, and ensure that it is not too loose or tight. You know it’s the right one if it can hold its own once the jacket and tie come off. If you feel the need to snazz it up, the Givenchy version below with its subtle detailing should do the trick.

3. Sports Jacket

A good sports jacket is a weekend-wear essential. Throw this on to complete almost any smart casual look. Select a fabric that is more textured and rough to breakaway from the daily “office suit” look, hence the traditional popularity of tweed worn during weekend getaways in the country. Another good tip is to pick a coat in a lighter material if you want to stretch wearing it over a few seasons. Ralph Lauren, the king of American prep, is a great place to start looking for one.

4. Brogues

Brogues are incredibly versatile and will instantly smarten your clothing ensemble. This timeless style of the shoe works great with both tapered chinos and straight-cut jeans. Although recently they have appeared in all colours of the rainbow, we say stick with dark brown, tan or black. We're also quite partial to the two-tone versions, such as this pair from Paul Smith below.

5. Chinos

With chinos, a softer alternative to jeans, you still have the option of dressing to the nines. Just slip on a shirt, blazer and formal shoes. The best part is that they are low-maintenance in comparison to formal trousers. Traditional khaki tones are timeless but we are also partial to blue and this season’s it-colour, burgundy. Of course, you can always go all out, such as with this whimsical printed version from Band of Outsiders.

6. Leather Jacket

Every guy should own at least one leather jacket. Put it over a plain T-shirt and/or a jumper to keep you warm and look cool. We recommend getting the biker cut or bomber style (with shearling collar) in black or brown. Loud colours on more mature men tend to scream “mid-life crisis”, as does pairing it with a motorcycle. So avoid both if in doubt. Studs, as seen on the Ralph Lauren jacket below, are optional.

7. Pocket Square

A pocket square is a sophisticated way of standing out in a sea of suits. Purely for decorative purposes, it sits on the left breast pocket of a jacket. They generally come in silk, cotton and linen. Don’t match it with the same pattern as your tie. Instead, play around with contrasting hues or tones that will bring out the colours in the rest of your outfit. This Louis Vuitton one may look too flamboyant when laid out: but when folded, it will provide just the right amount of vibrancy peeking out of your pocket.

8. Trench Coat

Originally created for the army trenches, this durable rainproof design has come a long way. Now it is a stylish statement piece that’s all over the catwalks. A fitted and cropped silhouette works best. Anything too big and bulky could make you look like Inspector Gadget. Make sure it looks like you’re wearing the jacket and not like the jacket is wearing you. Burberry, of course, is the go-to brand for trench coats.

9. Men’s Bag

Men have a range of stylish yet masculine options for carrying their work and gym stuff in. So bin the hideous boxy briefcase, rucksack and generic laptop bag. Why self-sabotage your entire look with a single accessory? Complete your outfit with a contemporary leather tote, duffel bag or courier bag. We love this elegant crocodile version from Tod's.

10. Tuxedo

The tuxedo is the epitome of dapper and suave. Worn at all big formal events from award ceremonies to weddings, it is something most men scrub up well in. Owning one in basic black is a worthwhile investment. Keep it traditional by accessorising with a black silk bow tie, cummerbund, white pleated shirt, and patent-leather shoes. Though traditionally black, the truly adventurous may venture into midnight blue or gray. This one from Gucci is sheer perfection.