THE JOURNAL
From reading into some accounts of new-season clothing, you’d assume that Mother Nature just flips a switch. One day it’s winter and you’re tucked up in a down jacket, the next – BAM! – it’s spring and you’re in an aloha shirt and shorts. Of course, the world doesn’t work like that. And while the SS25 collections are already here, in reality, their uptake into your lived experience is likely to be gradual rather than overnight.
There is, however, one segment of your wardrobe in which you can make a seismic shift, like, right now. And that’s accessories. Think about it: the weather at this time of year can be unpredictable. So, you might still need an extra layer – or two, or three – of outerwear. But a pop of colour or something to break up an outfit? Talk about instant impact.
Below, a selection of the latest accessories to help you seize the moment and dress for the season you want, not the one you currently have. Because the final details shouldn’t be the last thing you consider.
01. The caps
Nowadays, your head is prime real estate for getting a message across, and a cap is the way to do it. That could be a subtle logo, a more artful motif or even the pared-back aesthetic of quiet luxury – sometimes, silence really is the loudest statement of all. Whatever you have to say, any of the caps in our edit will make your point for you. Opt for something romantic as we stride into spring with AMI PARIS’ denim design featuring the brands heart-shaped logo, or channel Kendall Roy (sartorially, at least) in Loro Piana’s cashmere Ivy cap.
02. The sunglasses
Longer days are here again. And, while the return of the sun is something to celebrate, it appearing right in our eyeline: not so much. There are many, many factors to consider when selecting sunglasses. For starters, which frames suit your face shape? What does your pair convey about you? And will anyone notice if you take a quick nap? Most of these questions are answered in our extensive recent guide. The pairs below make up the perfect sunglasses collection, should choosing just one prove difficult.
03. The scarves
A scarf can be many things. At the last gasp of winter, it’ll make a welcome companion against the chilly winds, particularly if you stick to softer styles that you can wrap around your neck a few times. But it can also be the piece that takes a smart ensemble from good to great. We’ve taken notes from the way Drew Starkey styled his at the Sag Awards and suggest swapping your tie out for a scarf – printed styles from Valentino Garavani, Etro and Drake’s add some visual interest to monochrome layers, too.
04. The belts
At MR PORTER, we’re firm believers that a proper belt is an essential for any stylish man. In fact, any self-respecting wardrobe should have at least a brace of them. For formal dress codes, you’ll need a smart belt – this ideally comes in a slim width and a smooth leather with no patterns or grain, and is fastened with a subtle buckle. If you’re wearing jeans or chinos, though, you can be a little creative. Try canvas or woven styles – the latter will inject an effortless touch of pattern to any look.
05. The jewellery
Jewellery has the power to single-handedly elevate any outfit. Now, if you’re a beginner in the world of men’s bling, we’d suggest starting with something on the simpler side, such as a slim chain from HOORSENBUHS or an M. Cohen by MAOR signet ring. If you’re a seasoned jewellery aficionado, however, spring’s the time to experiment with it. Gone are the days when choosing between gold and silver was a thing – layering mixed metals is a subtle way to make a style statement.