We’re now in that difficult period of transition between Spring and Summer, which can make every excursion feel like a lottery. Do you wrap up warm and run the risk of sweating or ending up in damp wool, dress lightly and regret the lack of a thick coat, or wear something waterproof that could leave you uncomfortably at either end of the extreme temperature spectrum?
With that in mind we’ve compiled some helpful thoughts and insight from our over 115 years of helping gentlemen to dress for the occasion which will hopefully guide you towards balanced wardrobe choices that are as practical as they are stylish.
Coping with unexpected downpours
Despite the name, April showers can strike at any time between March and July, and for the unprepared the result can be a very uncomfortable day in the office. Here are our top tips to keep you dry when misfortune strikes.
Consider the options for water-resistant outerwear
Investing in a lightweight, water-resistant jacket is a game changer. Options like mac coats, trench coats, or windbreakers offer some protection without being too heavy, but the most important thing is to check that the clothing is breathable to avoid overheating. Look for jackets with waterproof zippers and ventilation panels to avoid the “boil in the bag” effect.
A trench coat or a stylish lightweight parka can be easily packed into your bag, providing peace of mind when rain is unpredictable.
Moorer Navy 'Ezio' Lightweight Water Repellent Coat
MooRER Dark Blue 'Sironi' Waterproof Bomber Jacket
Robert Old Navy Loro Piana Green Storm System Wool & Cashmere Overcoat
Paul & Shark Navy 4X4 Stretch Save the Sea Field Coat
Smart Umbrella
Having a compact, portable umbrella in your bag or car is an obvious but effective strategy. But try to pick one that’s windproof - those sudden gusts make normal umbrellas a short-term investment.
Choose an umbrella with a strong frame (metal or fiberglass is ideal), and avoid super-lightweight models that bend or flip easily. Also think about the coverage that will be given by the dimensions you choose, as a small umbrella may not be enough to protect a long wool coat that’s flowing behind you in a strong wind.
Opt for Quick-Drying Fabrics
More cure than prevention, wearing clothes made from quick-drying fabrics like merino wool or a silk/wool blend can get you out of a pinch when nature takes you by surprise. These fabrics dry faster and won’t cling to you as much when wet. Ironically, you may want to avoid 100% cotton clothing, which takes longer to dry so can leave you feeling damp for much longer.
Robert Old Navy Herringbone Super 160s Merino Wool Suit
Belvest Navy "Natural Soft" Silk & Wool Jacket
Footwear: Waterproof or Quick-Dry Options
While leather loafers or smart boots look great, not all are at their best in rain. If you're forewarned, a waterproof pair of boots or leather footwear treated with rain protection spray offer a way to stay stylish and dry simultaneously.
For emergencies, there are some foldable waterproof boot covers on the market that, while not being aesthetically pleasing, do offer a way to quickly go from water-vulnerable to water-proof. For our money, though, Crockett & Jones’ Coniston boots provide a happy medium between style, comfort and security:
Crockett & Jones Tan Coniston Country Grain Boots
Keep a Spare T-Shirt/Polo in Your Bag
If you’re out for an event or an extended period and know the forecast is unpredictable, a spare t-shirt or polo shirt can be a lifesaver in case you do get drenched. It's good to have a dry option to change into when you can.
Paul & Shark Almond Pure Cotton Jersey T-Shirt
Consider the Fabric of Your Suit
If you're wearing a suit, opt for lightweight wool or seersucker. They dry quickly, breathe well, and resist moisture better than cotton or linen.
Avoid 100% linen for business wear on rainy days, as it wrinkles easily when wet and can leave you looking a little too casual.
No sweat styling
You’ve insured yourself against one kind of damp, but the opposite end of the spectrum can also unexpectedly enter play during the spring/summer transition. How do you stay cool when the sun finally shows its face? The key to navigating this is light layers. Our first suggestion is to start with a thin merino wool or cotton jumper underneath a blazer or lightweight jacket - something breathable that still offers coverage for cool mornings and evenings.
Belstaff Clay Brown Watch Crewneck Merino Wool Sweater
Versatile Shirts
Switch out heavy fabrics for something breathable, like linen or light cotton shirts. A smart, button-down linen shirt can work in the office and for casual weekend activities. Just remember the advice above about wearing these fabrics in a sudden downpour - make sure they’re protected by the other items in your ensemble to ensure you don’t become sodden or, in the case of linen, turn into a wrinkled mess.
Robert Old White Italian Linen Long Sleeve Shirt
Smart Footwear
Loafers, derbies, and Chelsea boots in lighter colours can be versatile for both Spring and Summer. For a cooler day, opt for chukka boots or leather sneakers to keep the style contemporary.
Santoni Stone Beige Tumbled Leather Low-Top Sneaker
Subtle Patterns and Prints
Summer often brings out the bold prints, but during the transitional period, subtle patterns like small checks or thin stripes can keep things interesting without going too heavy on the season's typical motifs. Making the choice to keep to linen for your shirt will also add an extra layer of temperature security. If the sun comes out, your jacket can come off and help to regulate rather than swelter.
Robert Old Navy Blue Stripe Italian Linen Long Sleeve Shirt
Robert Old Turquoise Stripe Italian Linen Long Sleeve Shirt
While the motto of British spring to summer may be “expect the unexpected”, which was written during a sudden rain shower on an otherwise sunny day, we hope you’ll find the above useful in helping you be prepared. As always, if you’d like more personal advice, feel free to give us a call or, if you’re in the area, drop in to the shop.
