We’re used to Denver’s up-and-down weather—and we can’t complain about the unseasonably warm temps recently—but we know the cold is coming, and soon. When it does, you’ll want a wardrobe that’s both functional (aka, warm) and good-looking (obviously). Here are a few of our favorite menswear pieces to put on rotation when picking out that perfect chilly day look.

The bomber jacket has become a modern wardrobe staple because it provides just the right degree of protection from the elements. Look for a minimal version with little or no hardware, which is truly timeless and easy to layer. This cotton one by too-cool-for-school Krammer & Stoudt ($550) has simple lines and a trim fit. Available at Armitage & McMillan, 1550 Platte St., 303-284-6222, armitageandmcmillan.com

Overshirts were shown on men’s runways as a great multitasker (check out Marni‘s fashion-forward version). They serve as a lightweight outerwear option in more mild months and a layering essential when the weather drops below freezing. To maximize the style’s variety, choose one in a luxe material. Corridor NYC’s take ($249) is cut in raw Japanese denim—a fabric that breaks-in beautifully over time—and is lined in a sophisticated brushed cotton plaid. Available at Sully & Co., 2443 Eliot St., 720-398-8064, sullyandco.com

Upgrade your basic knitwear with some interesting surface texture. There’s no better place to find the trend in town than at Uniqlo, which opens its first Colorado location at the Denver Pavilions on October 28. (The Japanese lifestyle fashion brand is beloved for its shockingly low prices on quality merino wool and cashmere; read up on its manufacturing process here.) For fall, try this sporty, checkerboard-patterned crewneck in cozy, 100-percent lambswool ($50); it’s from the Uniqlo U line, the first collection designed in the brand’s Paris office by French minimalist designer Christophe Lemaire. Available at Uniqlo, 500 16th St., 1-877-486-4756, uniqlo.com

Brown reemerged as the neutral shade of choice for menswear this season, and it looks especially fresh in tailored outerwear. If you’re in need of a real coat this winter—please keep that ski parka for the high country—try a sharply cut topcoat like this one by Barena Venezia ($995). The tobacco brown hue is an elegant alternative to classic black, while the soft cotton and wool-jersey fabric gives it casual appeal. Available at Lawrence Covell, 225 Steele St., 303-320-1023, lawrencecovell.com

Coloradans know they need to master the art of layering if they want to be dressed appropriately for our constantly changing weather. But the skill also shows off your style savvy and extends the life of your wardrobe. The key component for fall is the classic polo shirt. Keep the look effortless by wearing it under sporty suiting or over a T-shirt with a fitted cardigan or bomber jacket thrown on top. Go vintage-cool with this organic cotton Poker polo by Threads 4 Thought ($50). Available at Judith & Joe, 3040 Blake St., Unit 100, 720-443-1176, judithandjoeshop.com

With a nod to the great outdoors, the upgraded hiking boot is an essential wardrobe addition. It’s perfect for dressing up basic denim or for grounding a well-tailored suit. (Pro tip: If you’re going to work this look, keep your pants hemmed to just above the ankle.) Beckett & Robb’s Torino Alpine boot ($795) in cognac-colored Italian leather is a handsome way to invest in the style. Available at Beckett & Robb, 707 17th St., 303-339-0914, beckettrobb.com

Western influences crept onto the men’s runways this season, with the neckerchief standing out as a top way to accessorize for fall. If Fido has appropriated your favorite bandanna, head to Cedar & Hyde and choose from the shop’s colorful selection; we like this version by RRL ($85). Just be sure to study exactly how this one is tied because there is a right (and thus, wrong) way to rock this trend. Cedar & Hyde, 2015 10th St., Boulder, 720-287-3900, cedarandhyde.com

The backpack is still going strong, but the perennial favorite gets a sophisticated upgrade this season with fun patterns. Enter the modern camo print denim of Coach’s new Gotham backpack (also pictured at top). Trimmed in glovetanned leather, this pack is definitely a splurge ($1,100), but it’s also fully loaded with extras such as a roomy interior, numerous pockets (including one for headphones and charger cords), and a laptop compartment. Available at coach.com

Ladies: Check out our women’s picks for fall here.

Follow fashion editor Georgia Benjou on Twitter at @gabenjou, Pinterest at /gabenjou, and Instagram at /gabenjou.