Three of the best lightweight coats for the warmer months.

Most people would agree that summer is a good thing. There’s the prospect of sun, for one thing, which means dining al fresco and leisurely drinking in a pub garden. And there are holidays, which are always welcome. But as well as all the exciting escapades and the pleasant weather, there’s the reality of actual responsibilities (such as work) and, if you’re anywhere near the UK, the cold and rain. Which means that a uniform of swim shorts and camp-collar shirts simply won’t cut it. You’ll definitely need some trousers and, if you’re being smart about it, an appropriate coat. There is a range of lightweight styles available on MR PORTER to help you look sleek (and not sweaty) should the weather prove changeable. But which one to choose? Here are three of our favourites.

The spring/summer collections (or SS, if you’re short of time) are often injected with playful prints and an invigorated palette. Which means you can ditch all that dreary winter clothing in favour of something a bit more fun, such as this seersucker, brightly striped coat. If you’re faint-hearted, feel safe in the knowledge that the dominant tone is navy and the coat comes from South Korean brand Wooyoungmi, which is renowned for its sophisticated designs. Balance out the oversized silhouette of the coat by wearing it with a pair of tapered khaki chinos, such as these from Lanvin, which are distinguished by their zipped hems.

Some days, sunny or not, you’ll have real business to attend to. And you’ll need a proper, long coat to show your professional and sartorial nous. Dries Van Noten’s double-breasted version is ideal for such scenarios and will help you stay cool in both senses of the word. It has all the commanding trappings of a smart trench, but is cut from a breathable cotton and linen blend, so you won’t get hot under the collar. Soften the deep midnight-blue tone with Barena’s slim-fit off-white shirt, also cut in linen for a more relaxed feel.

It would be pretty difficult to feel anything but rather jolly while wearing this cheerful Prince of Wales check shell coat from New York brand Thom Browne. But what if you did get a bit blue? Well – and this is where it gets good – you can flip the jacket inside out, and wear it as a deep storm-blue coat, replete with anchor-stamped gold buttons. Whichever way you choose to wear it, pare it back with a simple grey polo shirt, one of this season’s key trends.

**Shop all summer coats here **