Inter-seasonal dressing made easy .

The weather at MR PORTER HQ in London has been unseasonably mild this week. With the onset of global warming, perhaps it is to be expected. Whatever the case, many of us in the office emerged from our houses this morning wearing cashmere, woollen hats and long johns in an absent-minded attempt to fend off winter weather, only to be faced with temperatures creeping towards double figures. The Tube ride was a struggle. We’d be tempted to say that spring is in the air. This is perhaps a premature declaration, of course, which is why we’re not investing in a whole new wardrobe just yet. But it did get us thinking about the winter clothes that work in warmer weather – versatile pieces that pack a punch all year round. Below are three items we’d happily invest in today, safe in the knowledge we can continue to wear them when the temperature rises.

Given its military and workwear influences (and the connection to sportswear – Mr Pep Guardiola is one of many famous fans), Stone Island ticks a lot of boxes for the style-conscious man. Let’s consider this piece in particular. Is it a jacket? Is it a shirt? Well, it’s both, actually. Made in lightweight shell, this will work as outerwear in warmer weather (and the material will keep you dry should it start to drizzle), or it can slip seamlessly under a thicker coat or jacket if it’s cold. We have some suggestions for both situations, below.

Modern skincare advice tells us that the threat of UV rays should be a daily consideration, not just one for the beach. So, if you’re protecting your skin, why not your eyes too? We’re not suggesting you start swanning around in shades every day as if you’re the frontman of a particularly successful Irish rock group. But on those clear, crisp wintry days when a flash of sunshine causes you to squint, you’d be well advised to pull on a pair. We love these tortoiseshell sunglasses by Cubitts, which are subtle and stylish enough to keep you protected (and, more importantly, looking good) all year round.

Loafers have a reputation as a summer shoe. And, worn without socks and in a soft material (suede, for example), they are, indeed, the perfect warm-weather footwear (just add a breezy camp-collar shirt). But with a few tweaks here and there, they can work just as well in winter. First, go for a robust leather pair, such as these by Grenson. While not entirely non-absorbent, they will fare far better than suede in wet weather. Second, wear socks. Make sure you err on the brighter side so your look is less geriatric, more contemporary and fun.