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Overcoat Jacket matching with Turtleneck Sweater and a pair of leather Chelsea Boots with a quality umbrella

Photos courtesy DJ Scammell

Herringbone Fabric Suit with Turtleneck Sweater and a pair of suede Chelsea Boots for dry winter days

Photos courtesy DJ Scammell

5 Winter Essentials

By Douglas James Scammell

Published 12:13 PST, Mon January 26, 2026

Fashion For Men

The winter months in Vancouver British Columbia can be long, dark, cool and damp. Over the course of these winter months some of your favorite suits and shoes will get put away until our fair-weather conditions return. To help keep you in your usual happy fashionable self during the winter season when we bundle up to keep warm and dry, I have outlined some essential items to help you look and feel great during this time. Here are 5 essential winter items that every well-dressed modern gentleman can feel good in during the winter months in the greater Vancouver area that will not cost a fortune to obtain.

WINTER ESSENTIALS

1. Chelsea Boots

A great pair of Chelsea boots are a must. They look great whether you pair them with your suit, or with a sweater and a pair of jeans. They are very comfortable and most importantly they will help keep your feet dry. I recommend getting a pair of either black or a dark brown color because these are the most versatile colors to go with your wardrobe. Equally important is to make sure they are leather for the wet days and suede only for the dry winter days because the rain destroys anything suede. They are a great investment because you can also wear them during the spring and fall months as well.

2. Turtleneck Sweater

The turtleneck sweater is the perfect sweater to have because of it’s versatility as it will go with every type of outfit. From suits to jeans a gentleman in a turtleneck will give off that edgy look that is both classy and retro vibe not to mention it keeps you warm and comfortable. I recommend a navy or a white colored turtleneck, they are classics and will compliment your wardrobe as shown in the photos.

3. Herringbone Fabric Suit

A herringbone suit is the perfect edition to your winter wardrobe because of the wool fabric design that originated from the wet climate in Northern Scotland … which is so adaptable for those in the greater Vancouver who choose this as part of their wardrobe because of the weather similarities. The herringbone wool fabric will help better repel the moisture from the rain when caught outside without your umbrella… and if worn properly you can dress this herringbone suit up with a tie or dress it down for that casual look pairing the herringbone jacket with a pair of jeans. Either way it will be a versatile purchase and you can wear it in the spring and fall seasons as well.

4. Overcoat Jacket

The overcoat jacket is another must and you may recall I previously wrote a story on the history of the classic Navy Pea Jacket that has stood the test of time. Most importantly, this jacket keeps you warm, and is designed for comfort to fit over top of your suit. Choosing a tailored color (navy or black) is a style that has never gone out of fashion. It’s a versatile item in your wardrobe that looks great over a formal outfit or matching it as a casual look with a pair of jeans. There are many different overcoat styles from single breasted to double breasted. No matter what style you choose it’s a purchase that will serve you well for years.

5. Quality Umbrella

An umbrella is an important accessory for the modern gentleman because it embodies preparedness, style, and chivalry. It is a practical tool for protection from these winter elements and is also a timeless accessory that enhances a man's overall appearance, demonstrating his foresight and an eye for fashion. When it is raining out you want to stay dry keeping your hair and clothing in check. I recommend getting a good quality umbrella that balances durability, wind resistance, coverage, and portability, featuring strong materials like fiberglass ribs, a vented or double canopy to handle gusts of wind, a quality waterproof fabric that repels water, and a comfortable handle, with options like auto-open/close for convenience.

The five items I laid out above are all classics. They are all winter staples and the best thing is they can all be worn by mixing and matching as they are all extremely versatile, affordable and easy to find when shopping. Let’s not forget that accessories like a variety of scarfs, gloves, winter hats, other sweater styles and winter style boots can change up the look of these five essential items, the options are endless