By Tim Chai
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Overall:
The main idea this season seems to point at the border between refined and rugged, using an East-meet-West motif as the backdrop. Tweed and herringbone suits shared the runways with workwear—hunting jackets, leather bombers, washed tartan shirts, and desert boots—as it did with a (very, very expensive) Russian serf look.

Topcoats:
If you’re going to own one winter coat, I recommend a classic topcoat. Versatile enough to be worn on all different occasions—from suited business attire to casual cardigan and jeans—a good one will be a worthy investment for years to come. Just one thing: the coat should hit above the knee; it’s not a bathrobe after all.
Topcoats can be found by designers Etro, Marc Jacobs, and Tommy Hilfiger.  Locally, check out J. Crew, Banana Republic, Express, Macy’s and Old Navy.
Price: $82 at Old Navy

Washed Shirt:
This is one shirt that you’ll never have to iron or fold. Care is easy—throw it in the washer and dryer and pull it on—it’s a perfectly casual shirt for any occasion.
Shirts for this season can be found by designers Adam Kimmel, J. Lindeberg and Gilded Age.  Shirts can be found locally at J. Crew, which is famous for its secret wash shirts.
Price: $80 at Polo

Knit Tie:
Knit ties are a classic staple that will never go out of style. From The Beatles stepping out at John F. Kennedy International Airport to JFK himself, their longevity is evident. Recently, they’re making a splash even among today’s most fashionable crowds.
Ties can be found by designers Michael Bastian, Tim Hamilton and Ralph Lauren.  They can be found locally at J. Crew.
Price: $50 at J. Crew

Chinos:
American workwear is known for its utilitarianism, remarkable durability and unbelievable comfort. Chino pants gained popularity in the United States after the Spanish-American War, when army men returning from the Philippines brought back their cotton military trousers. Although chino is a Spanish term for Chinese, don’t be fooled; it’s all American now.
Chinos were sent down the runways by many designers, including Dries Van Noten and Michael Bastian.
Price: $70 at Banana Republic

Desert Boot:
Whether you live in the city or the country, you’ll need serious footwear to keep your feet warm this winter. The desert boot is this season’s most versatile mode of transportation. Originally introduced by Clark’s in the mid-20th century, they’re unstructured in a seriously sexy way. Wear them everywhere—they’ll only get better with age.
The desert boot can be found by designers Ralph Lauren and Pierre Hardy.  They can be found at Gap and Clark’s, among others.
Price: $89 at Clark’s