Manhattan-based label The Row has more than earned its status as the go-to purveyor of smart, sophisticated and unshowy clothing for those in the know. Exhibit A: this impeccably tailored, delightfully minimal overcoat, which is lightly padded to keep out the cold and cut from a crisp shell to shield from the showers.

No points for guessing what this cardigan from The Elder Statesman is spun from. It may not come in the Californian craft-forward brand’s impossible-to-miss rainbow stripes – opting, instead, for an intricate sea-life pattern – but it nonetheless arrives in the distinctly plush 100 per cent cashmere that’s made it such a connoisseur’s favourite.

Think loafers are straitlaced? Not in the hands of Bottega Veneta. This season, the Italian label has infused the preppy slip-on shoe with a hefty dose of sex appeal by way of high-sheen patent black leather and flash gold-tone embellishment that will swiftly nix any bookish connotations.

Don’t listen to the naysayers. Distressed jeans are an art form. True to its undone, rock ’n’ roll ethos, CELINE HOMME has hit the nail on the head with these Wesley jeans, which combine light fraying, a perfectly worn wash of denim and a flattering straight-leg fit for that I-can’t-believe-they’re-not-vintage look.

The father and son duo behind Mr Leight take their inspiration from the golden age of Hollywood style, a fact reflected in the moniker of these smart aviator-style sunglasses. They are called Stahl after the architect Mr Pierre Koenig’s iconic modernist masterpiece, Stahl House. Subtle details such as the titanium wires, two-tone acetate and bevelled frame make them a cut above your usual sunnies.

A good bomber jacket is a fail-safe spring staple. Lightweight and breathable enough not to leave you dripping with sweat on the journey to work, but insulated enough to fend off the evening chill if you’ve stayed for one beer too many on the way home. This one from Sacai reworks the classic shape with a loose waist (with adjustable buckle tabs), webbing trim and a double collar.

It can be hard to find a stylish and sophisticated work bag. Rucksacks just don’t cut it for serious meetings and an old-school briefcase always makes us feel like we’re cosplaying our dad. Enter king of chic, Mr Tom Ford. This pebble-grain leather messenger bag is discreet and beautifully made yet practical, with plenty of room for your laptop and notebook.

Forget Hawaiian, we’re bursting into spring with this opulent embroidered shirt. The cut and colour palette of this short-sleeved example by Dries Van Noten mean that at first glance you appear to be sporting a simple casual ensemble. On closer inspection, however, the meticulous pearlescent and metallic detailing of its repeated motif comes into focus. Yes, it says. I am that jazzy.

As we welcome the arrival of (slightly) warmer days, nothing is more fitting than Elhanati’s handmade jewellery. Crafted from recycled 18-carat gold, this necklace is aptly strung with a textured sun pendant, which was shaped using traditional dripping and hammering techniques.

Inspired by the brand founder Mr Yuta Hosokawa’s experience working in a charity shop, SAINT Mxxxxxx’s designs have a distinctively retro influence. Take this cotton-jersey hoodie as proof. Wear with jeans and sneakers, or dress it up with chinos and loafers.

If you are planning a sunny getaway, may we suggest Suicoke’s sandals, courtesy of its collaboration with Carhartt WIP? They’re slim and lightweight, which means they’ll slip easily into your luggage.

If there is one item that truly deserves the epithet “essential” come spring, it has to be the bucket hat. Try this Marni + Carhartt WIP printed style in green, or opt for the yellow version if you’re feeling adventurous.

Going anywhere nice? LOEWE’s Amazona bag has been around since 1975, which makes it the perfect travelling companion, as do the smart leather trim, luggage tag and ample volume. The fetching yet hardwearing Jacquard canvas helps it stand out on any conveyor belt and will guarantee long and fruitful service.

If you have a plum pair of pins, you will want a plum pair of shorts, too. Stone Island is known for its clever fabrics in cleverer colours, and this swimwear is no different. Poolside, the crinkle-textured shell will dry in no time, while the vibrant tone should serve as a reminder to apply sunscreen. We’re all for coordination, but in this instance, you don’t want matching calves.

The Dutch designer RÓHE doesn’t like to make a fuss. Quietly refined versions of wardrobe essentials are more its style. This navy woollen vest is a case in point. It goes about its business, assuredly pulling together an outfit. You can say that it is ’armless if you like. We’re not going there, but don’t let that stop you.

So, you’ve come for some sage advice. This particular shade of green will always age well. Sage is not quite expected, but never outlandish, and will only look better with thyme. Ahem, time. Mr P.’s trusty suede jacket keeps things simple, with a relaxed camp collar and contrast horn buttons. It will look the part this season, and for many seasons to come. Seasoning, you could call it.

If you are slightly bored of the plain cotton T-shirts folded primly in your drawer – ones that go perfectly underneath sweaters and sweatshirts – this is the T-shirt for you. It demands to be worn on its own so that everyone can admire the signature KAPITAL bandana print. Wear with jeans or with something equally visually appealing on the bottom.

White sneakers have had a bad rap for being a bit of a snooze. Why wear white kicks when you can incorporate the wildly colourful stylings of some of the best collabs on the market? These suede and leather court shoes from Acne Studios make a convincing case to keep a neutral pair in your rotation.

A refined item of outerwear from Fear of God won’t go amiss this spring. This leather jacket, crafted in Italy from supple lambskin, keeps a low profile with its minimal silhouette and low-key details. The cut is shirt-like, so it can be a top layer or a mid layer.