The technical coats of the season (and techniques on how best to wear them).

As fabrics go, shell hasn’t had the most star-studded of histories. The rustling, water-resistant cloth is best known for being the stuff that tracksuits were made of in the 1980s – fans of which since have included Messrs Jeremy Corbyn, Paul Gascoigne, Ali G and the PE teacher at school. It is therefore about as far away from the plush cashmere end of the style spectrum as one can get. But fashion has a way of reappropriating outdated styles and updating them with a fresh perspective, which is why shell jackets (no trousers yet, thankfully) can now be seen in plenty of designer collections looking rather refined.

You can blame this on the athleisure trend if you like, but sportswear that isn’t really intended for sports does have quite a few benefits beyond being in fashion. Namely, it’s waterproof and windproof, making it ideal for the awkward in-between months on the horizon, when a winter coat is too much but you still need some protection from the elements. Scroll down for a selection of shell jackets new to MR PORTER today, and a few tips on how to wear them well.

This black shell jacket from Lanvin is decidedly more streetwear than sportswear, emblazoned as it is with graphics including the directive “Enter Nothing” – a protest against the insatiable hunger for information that the internet age has afflicted us with. It does, however, still have pockets for your phone, plus a handy drawstring to adjust the fit to your build. A white tee is a failsafe pairing, so slip this similarly wordy one from Raf Simons underneath. The black and white labels across the front denote album track lists designed by the artist and longtime brand collaborator Mr Peter Saville.

This Brunello Cucinelli blouson jacket is inspired by safari landscapes and epic expeditions, but will look equally appropriate for an adventure to the pub this weekend. Made in Italy from solid shell, it’s finished with shiny snap fastenings and patch pockets for a utilitarian feel. The military green colour will look particularly good with natural, neutral tones – try these sand-coloured slim-fit jeans from Loro Piana and you’ll blend in nicely wherever you end up.

When the weather warms up a bit and a full coat feels a bit stifling, consider a shell gilet to take you through the transitional months. This particular one from British brand Dunhill is quilted with goose down, and comes with a funnel neck that you can zip up if the wind picks up. An ideal extra layer for slipping on during the morning commute, the gilet will also look suitably laid-back when worn over this dusty pink sweater from Richard James as part of a casual ensemble.