Trench Coat
Showers aren’t the only issue when winter thaws to spring. In December, it’s fine to bundle up. But unexpected sunshine soon turns that overcoat into a portable steam room. When the weather’s unpredictable, you need something waterproof but unlined, with space for the layers that give nuanced temperature control. Aquascutum’s trenches have been providing precisely that for more than a century, and its new Voyager coat continues its legacy in a range of colours that could brighten up even the most dour commute. It even packs away into its own bag, in case your weather predictions are too pessimistic. Voyager Trench, available at Aquascutum, priced £250.
Sneakerboots
We weren’t 100 per cent down with the sneakerboot when it first emerged. But a few run-outs in the wet proved that these hybrid shoes are ideal for in-between days, when a hiker seems OTT, but you don’t want to ruin your boxfresh kicks. Converse’s wear their ruggedness lightly – ideal for dipping a toe in the trend (and keeping it dry). Chuck Taylor All Star Tekoa Boot, available at Converse, priced £74.99.
Washed Denim
Bruised skies mean you need to stow your dry denim, lest unexpected showers undo a year’s worth of avoiding water (although your better half might not be so unhappy). Luckily, this season beaten-up jeans are trending; Orslow’s pre-distressed denim means you needn’t sweat the odd dousing. Orslow + Beams Distressed Denim Jeans, available at Mr Porter, priced £170.
Umbrella
When rain’s a risk, you need a brolly. But buying a throwaway from the nearest newsagent every time the heavens open is a false economy that also means you’re accessorising a considered outfit with garish plastic. Invest in a London Undercover keeper instead, to protect yourself from elements and side-eyes. Folded Olive Umbrella, available at London Undercover, priced £60.
Wool Suit
You may think it’s too warm for wool, but the wonder material is your ideal ally against changeable conditions. The fabric has air pockets, which trap heat when there’s frost out, but also let your body breath when a rush along the platform has left you sprinkling. It’s less happy in the wet, though. So don’t leave your umbrella on the train. Grey City Suit, available at Oliver Brown, priced £425.
Fisherman-Knit Roll Neck
The first day you can ditch the coat is like liberation from four months of chilblains. So usher that moment in earlier with a layer that’s as warm as heavy outerwear. This season, fisherman have ousted lumberjacks as the working men that urbanites are ‘inspired by’. But there’s a practical side to this classism – if it can keep you warm on a boat, you’re probably alright in a beer garden. That’s your excuse. Cream Turtleneck, available at SuitSupply, priced £129.
Bright, Cashmere Scarf
The simplest way to add some heat when it’s cold, cashmere is also fine enough to stow in a pocket when it’s not. Embrace the longer days and use it to bring a pop of colour to all that drab winter gear you’re not quite ready to put into storage. Reversible Paisley Scarf, available at Edward Sexton, priced £120.
Dainite-Soled Shoes
Did we mention the wet? Leather soles soften when they’re soaked, allowing them to be shredded by pavements. To avoid monthly trips to the cobblers, invest in Dainite. These thin rubber soles look like leather from the side, but will protect your pocket – and your footing. Sovereign Brogue, available at Loake, priced £165.
Denim Jacket
In spring, the denim jacket has a life beyond outerwear. The perfect transitional layering piece, it slots in under everything from a suit jacket to a bomber, bringing a touch of warmth and texture. Just make sure it fits you like a glove. Boxy shapes don’t sit pretty under slimline tailoring. Dark Indigo Western Denim Jacket With Red Lining, available at Topman, priced £45.
Low Maintenance Hair
Gales, squalls and sweat aren’t good news for your barnet. Fortunately, this season’s key hairstyles take all three into account. If you have short to mid-length hair, try a fringe or choppy, textured cut that can easily be restyled with your fingers if the wind picks up. If longer tressed, apply sea salt spray to damp hair and allow to dry naturally for an effortless, 1990s grunge-inspired style.
