Written by Menswear Style in Essentials on the 4th November 2014

If last year’s knits are looking a little worse for wear, but you’re not prepared to battle pre-Christmas crowds on the high street to find something new - then fear not. Boden has always been the byword for quality clothing, but this season its weather-beating jackets, slim fit chinos and luxurious chunky knits are marking it out as a men’s style secret worth knowing about. 

'We picked five pieces your wardrobe shouldn’t be without this winter' 

The Fair Isle Jumper  - It’s a little bit festive, but there’s nothing novelty about this knit. A heavy guage yarn gives it an added cosy factor. And because all Boden knitwear and prints are designed in house, it’s just that little bit different from anything you’ll find elsewhere. We also love the fact it’s machine washable.

The Adventurer Jacket - This could be the ultimate British weather-beater. It’s like a Swiss army knife of a jacket that’s so technically perfect you’ll wonder how you managed without it. We like the fact it’s light enough to layer over your chunky knit without appearing too bulky. But it also comes with a pack-away hood, an internal neoprene pocket for your iPad. And it’s made from waxed British Millerain fabric. The print is a cleverly conceived ‘Brit-o-flage’ based on the outline of the Great British Isles.

The Vintage Slim Fit Chinos - Boden has really nailed the urban chino here. It’s a slim fit that’s not clingy and suits pretty much anyone, but it’s the washed effect and soft cotton that keeps us coming back for more.

The Mariner Boot  - It’s the deck shoe’s winter cousin that you’ll wear all weekend. The comfortable leather is surprisingly soft, but the brand has done well to keep the sole man-made and non-slip.

The Highland Overshirt - A good checked shirt is a winter must. It’s a fashion piece that doesn’t try too hard and it’s just the job for layering over a tee when the weather really hits hard. What we like about this one is the mid weight cotton twill that feels like it’ll wash and wear 1,000 times before it requires a replacement.

A look at 5 Winter Classics No Man Should Be Without featuring the Mariner Boot, Vintage Chinos, Adventurer Jacket and Fair Isle Jumper chosen from the Boden Winter 2014 collection.