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BLACK AND BLUE

A classic overcoat remains steadfast in its appeal as a staple from winter right up to the break of spring, but there is still room to play around with a wrapped-up, outdoorsy look. A smart blazer and denim shirt tucked inside an overcoat creates an expertly crafted contrast of smart and casual pieces while also working as a look that adapts to any temperature by the simple act of taking off the top layers. The stark electric blue of the denim shirt peeking out underneath the understated tones of the blazer and coat brings colour to an otherwise muted outfit: perfect for this time of year.

TURN UP THE HUE

The transitional period between seasons is a great opportunity to break the spell of dark, muted tones and add a warmer colour palette to your daily attire. Consider camel for two reasons: it’s seasonally appropriate to crossover from winter to spring and it’s one of those rare hues that enhance every garm, whether coat, cardigan, scarf or suit. A camel coat will serve you for years to come while the blue-and-white striped shirt under the cardigan makes for a more youthful take on the overall look. With a layered outfit like this, keep the textures varied so as to avoid a bulky appearance. The clean, wool fabric of the coat complements the ribbed structure of the cardigan and the crisp silhouette of the shirt.

A TOUCH OF SUEDE

One of the key instructions of pre-spring/summer dressing is investing in styles that offer both versatility and function. Much like its leather biker companion, the bomber jacket has made a big impact in menswear and part of that popularity comes down to its ability to work in different seasons. During the cold months this suede option can be worn over thick layers for warmth or be pared back with a simple T-shirt for laid-back, carefree style once the sun arrives. The pop of colour from the ruby red against the clean white knit and navy trousers makes this one of the more polished smart-casual looks to nail.

CUTTING EDGE

For a garment that will go the distance, a leather jacket is the quintessential transition piece to take you into next season. Adorned by every man worth his sartorial savoire-faire – including David Beckham and Zayn Malik – this cross-generational hero has taken on a life of its own, marrying wide lapels and chunky zip detailing with a sharp silhouette, to become one of menswear’s defining statement pieces. Ideal during the milder season, it’s a suitably cool finishing touch over a knit and denim or chinos.

GET SMART

The up-and-down weather at the beginning of a new year can sometimes come at the expense of smart styling, but that doesn’t mean you can’t mix and match tailoring with less formal pieces. The wide peak lapels and double-breasted cut of the new-season blazer strikes a strong note when worn over a casual knit in an oatmeal colour. That combined with contrasting trousers suggests a more playful, eclectic and unequivocally fresh approach to formalwear.

COMFORT ZONE

For cooler climes, the three “Cs” are important to remember when it comes to trans-seasonal wardrobe updates: comfort, casual and cool. A chunky, textured knit created from a mixed weave brings just that when worn with a printed shirt and indigo jeans. The darker colourways of the vertical-striped shirt hits all the right notes for this time of year while its untucked ends and peeking sleeve cuffs epitomise effortless styling.