12 must-have items for the definitive spring transition wardrobe

The past few months have been defined, sartorially speaking, by us either holing up in our abodes while dressed out in WFH sweats or wrapping up in roll-neck knits and down gear in order to block the breeze and blues when outside. But with the darkness slowly fading, and with the coming months replete with the promise of mingling and mixing in warmer, more agreeable climes, it’s now time to swap those oversized jumpers, chunky boots and the heavy-duty denim for transitional items that will see you through the upcoming period.

To help you hit reset on your wardrobe, we’ve curated a tightly edited selection of the finest foundations for you to consider for the season ahead (with consideration for the odd April shower, of course). From classic eyewear to a go-to tee, a jumper favoured by the biggest style icons, and more, here’s what you should invest in now.

An ideal piece for when light breezes kick in but the temperatures are no longer at Arctic levels, this zip-up gilet from New & Lingwood can be used as your main jacket when layered over an Oxford shirt or be seamlessly slipped under a harrington jacket. It’s also made from 100 per cent linen, so allows for maximum breathability.

When it comes to the weather in Britain, nothing is ever guaranteed. So, when the mercury inevitably drops and the rainfall returns, we’d suggest trying this parka on for size. Waterproof, windproof, sleek and slim, its appeal is further bolstered by the fact it is made entirely from recyclable material.

Of course, we can eulogise longingly about the virtues of a crisp, clean white shirt – how it can be dressed up or dressed down, and how it is the cornerstone of any man’s wardrobe. However, this season, add a subtle touch of colour to your ensemble with this rich-blue cashmerello (a luscious mix of cashmere and Egyptian raw cotton) option by storied shirtmaker Emma Willis. Its soft touch is enhanced by details such as the Iridescent Mother of Pearl buttons, and its neutral palette means it can go from boardroom meetings to riverside lunches.

The grey sweatshirt first found fame when it replaced heavy woollen jerseys on US sporting fields in the early 20th century. Less formal than a thinner cashmere alternative but with enough structure to prevent it from being shapeless, today it is considered the ultimate off-duty must-have – and Uniform Standard’s offering keeps branding to a minimum, making it adaptable and thus perfect to call upon during languorous spring weekends, sunshine-streaked strolls on Sundays, and afternoons whiling away in cafés.

Whether worn on its own; as a layering piece under a knit and a denim jacket; at home; or paired with a more formal, structured ensemble, the humble white t-shirt can play both the lead actor and supporting role throughout a myriad of occasions. As you well know, it’s been a favourite of style symbols – James Dean, Marlon Brando and the like – and, with balmier months on the doorstep, it will minimise the appearance of perspiration marks. We recommend buying a handful so that you can have them on a constant rotation during the approaching seasons and beyond.

Now that the wool trousers and selvedge denims are, theoretically, surplus to requirements for the moment, it’s time to invest in your wardrobe’s newest baseline. Take these beige chinos by Amsterdam-based Mr Marvis, for instance – it hits all the right notes (neither too tan nor too pale), and is slim-cut in a stretch fabric, which allows for a little bit of give. Like all good style staples, it can be utilised in numerous scenarios and ensembles – pair with an chambray shirt to go for a preppy look; roll up the cuffs for when you’re on the coastline; or simply match it with that all-important white t-shirt for your a post-work pint.

A reliable pair of easygoing jeans will add a slightly more informal slant to your legwear arsenal. Sure you can go for a failsafe pair in indigo, but we recommend you consider this lighter wash by the denim doyens at Levi’s; the faded patina will not only inject that degree of nonchalance to your outfit, but it’ll add a tinge of retro, too, if that’s your thing.

Invest in a solid pair of pared-back, light-hued sneakers and you’ll reap the benefits for years to come, whether you’re wearing them on a date, during a Tuscan getaway or at the pub (mind the spills). Our two cents is that you should go for a label-free, slimline model in order to maximise versatility; this pair by Superga ticks such boxes, and its contrasting sole makes it stand out from the ubiquitous crowd of Stan Smiths and Common Projects.

Whether it’s used to form a butter-soft jacket or a pair of go-anywhere desert boots, we believe that suede is perhaps the fabric that most evokes images of sunny, blithe spring days. The ‘Boston’ penny loafer, by heritage shoemakers Crockett & Jones, is a touch more informal than grained-leather lace-ups yet more opulent than footwear made from synthetic materials, and we consider it a key item to use when wanting to add an accent of texture to whatever you’re wearing. Better still, unlike many of its counterparts on the market, it is also water repellent.

Although the migration back to the office is slowly being cranked up, the hybrid work life spread across your company’s HQ and your abode is not going away any time soon. With that in mind, your loungewear is still as important as it was two years ago. MULO’s slippers, made from high-quality cotton corduroy, will keep your WFH ‘fit on the right side of casual.

The ultimate feel-good accessory for finer weather, a timeless pair of sunglasses provides any wearer with a dash of sprezzaturra. When picking a pair to suit you, Persol, the Italian pioneers of eyewear for over a century, will show you the way. When heading for the Amalfi, consider this slimline, round-framed number that’s both elegant and unobtrusive, and is also something a bit different to the ever-present wayfarer.

Well, you’re going to need something to transport all your gear to the Amalfi, right?

Want more wardrobe tips? Here’s why custom-tint sunglasses are your new summer status symbol…

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