A breton tee hits the sweet spot between stylish and louche. It makes more of a splash than white or grey alternatives, but is similarly comfortable and versatile. Fit is key: oversized can look childish; too fitted and it verges on feminine. Here are the styles catching our eye – and three ways to achieve them.

Cardigan is a small Welsh town of 4,000. For over three decades, a factory that employed 400 locals produced 35,000 pairs of jeans a week. Then one day the factory closed. In 2012, David and Clare Hieatt started Hiut Denim and got the town making jeans again. Here, David talks us through those early days and explains why every brand needs a great story…

Covering on-trend bomber jackets and textured overshirts, Zara has everything you need for an affordable wardrobe update. From crisp white shirts to cool trench coats, here are SLMan’s favourite pieces right now…

If large crowds, strip lighting and messy rails still stop you from heading out for an afternoon of shopping, then you’re not going to the right places. Across London, independent stores have been quietly raising the bar on what you should expect. From historic Jermyn Street to the modern style hub of Lamb’s Conduit Street, here are the menswear retailers that guarantee a first-class in-store experience.

A technical coat can weatherproof your outfit like nothing else. Once the preserve of outdoor specialists who made no concession to style, high-street brands have raised the bar and now offer jackets that deliver on both form and function. From Cos to Zara, here’s the best outerwear to guard against this season’s downpours.

Whether you wear it as a full suit or a single piece, check is timeless. All you have to do is choose a colourway that works with your wardrobe. Got lots of navy? Choose a print with some blue in it. Prefer black? Go for more earthy tones. You can balance a checked overcoat with wool trousers and a roll neck; or pair a patterned shirt with jeans. Whether you’re adding to your collection or just fancy giving check a chance, these are the best pieces to buy now…

Commonly known as a collarless shirt, the grandad collar is just that. It has a simple raised band in place of the traditional collar. At this time of year, they’re great for layering, especially if you’re struggling with an outfit that’s already got multiple collars. Here are four ways to wear one now.

Spring is the season of renewal. If you’re ready to overhaul your wardrobe of essentials, Polo Ralph Lauren is a great place to start. The luxury label has a wide selection of menswear classics – choose yours well and they will see you through to summer. Here are the pieces to look out for, including lightweight jackets, linen shirts and twill overshirts in greys and neutrals that can freshen up any spring ensemble…

Our Hot List gives you all the inspiration, recommendations and ideas you need this month. Whether it’s a new movie release, the latest gadget or a revolutionary grooming product you’re after, check out our roundup of things to do, see, buy and read in March.

Relaxed shapes and styling versatility make sweatshirts must haves. Whether they come from Sunspel or Uniqlo, they can be a great layering piece. This spring, as well as classic, easy-to-wear neutrals, look for on-trend pastels to add a bit of life to your look. Here, Paul Simons – co-owner of Chiltern Street menswear specialist John Simons – shares his top 3 buying tips...

Few others on the high street do cool and classic like Massimo Dutti. Its latest collection once again emphasises the brand’s signature tailored aesthetic. Crisp cotton shirts, fine knits, linen blazers and quality denim are all offered in a versatile colour palette of navy, beige and grey – ideal for capsule dressing. Whether you’re looking for a single hero piece or wanting to pick up a few essentials, these are the items you need to know about…