With the year coming to a close, there’s no better time for a wardrobe update. These garment pieces will be sure to have some serious staying power in your closet. This year, modern slim fit pants like chinos proved to be popular once again. Micro-patterned shirts that play up detail also had their share in the spotlight.

1. Blazer: If there’s one wardrobe investment that leaves an impression in both job interviews and casual outings, it’s a sharp looking blazer. This isn’t a piece you’ll find yourself donating later on – this piece will be practical for your new office job as well. Add a colourful pocket square for a pop of colour to your ensemble. Most importantly, though, ensure that it fits well, as you wouldn’t want to look like you inherited your dad’s old frumpy suit.

Dress a blazer down with a tee and dark washed jeans for a casual night out, or opt for a dress shirt and fitted trousers for a more formal look. If you already own a classic dark-coloured blazer, try a trendier take on this garment with a windowpane pattern or elbow patches that add the right amount of detail and intrigue. Pattern or non-pattern, a neutral colour blazer is a worthwhile investment.

2. Knit sweater: It’s hard to deny how super soft and comfy a sweater can be. A cozy sweater is practical for almost any time of the year, thrown on top of a v-neck tee during the fall and spring as substitute outerwear. In the cooler months, throw it on under a winter jacket and scarf for layering warmth. Purchase a sweater with a shawl collar or cables to upgrade your knitwear. Fair Isle patterns are trending at the moment, but you can’t go wrong with neutral sweaters and muted colours. Pair a knit sweater with neutral-coloured chinos or straight leg jeans for a casual everyday look.

3. Button-down shirt: This is one of the most classic and clean cut looks – you can’t go wrong with a button-down shirt paired with a skinny tie. To play up the look, try a textured wool tie that contrasts the shade of the shirt. Micro-dotted shirts are a fun way to add to your button-down shirt collection – think of it as the shirt with personality, subtle enough and totally on trend. A khaki shirt is practical as you don’t have to worry about ironing it. It still evokes that pulled-together, chic image. For a completely classic look, invest in a chambray shirt for a definite modern feel. Button-downs work great on their own for a dressed down look or worn under a blazer for a more dressed up look.

4. Plaid shirt: Styled the right way, plaid doesn’t have to evoke a lumberjack feel. Plaid can appear expensive or stylish paired under a sweater or blazer or even accessorized with a textured tie. Don’t feel afraid to pair a tie with a shirt, even with everyday looks. Just select a tie that isn’t overpowering or that detracts from the shirt. You can’t go wrong with a brown and blue pairing between tie and shirt – GQ even has a whole article dedicated to this colour duo. For an upscale plaid look, try J. Crew, Zara, Club Monaco or Banana Republic.

5. Cashmere v-neck sweater: Nothing feels more luxurious than cashmere. When selecting your sweater, ensure it isn’t too bulky or loose, as a fitted look is flattering for any season. A slim fit also looks modern and young. For easy comfort, ensure there’s enough room to fit a shirt underneath without adding too much body or bulk. Try investing in a good value, high-quality cashmere v-neck that won’t pill after extended use. With this being an ideal layering piece, you can definitely incorporate it later on into your work wear. Try wearing your cashmere v-neck underneath a suit jacket for a change from the stiff button-downs – very casual Friday worthy.

6. Wool coat: There’s some unexplainable allure to slick and stylish outerwear. Invest in a quality wool coat that will not only keep you warm, but will make an impression from the get go. They’re so much more appealing than puffy ski jackets or parkas while still providing the perfect insulation. With practicality and timeless style, this is the perfect piece for the winter months.

It’s always helpful to purchase investment pieces that you’ll be able to use throughout the different seasons. Lightweight sweaters provide the perfect amount of coverage and warmth that can be dressed up or down. These garments are also good for layering, which is key for a practical wardrobe. Having a set of go-to sweaters and shirts means an endless possibility of mixing and matching.