“It might seem obvious, but I didn’t used to do it,” says Lawrence Schlossman, co-host of the menswear podcast Throwing Fits. “Now, I know it’s a good idea before I leave the house: is it going to rain, is it going to get extremely cold, is it going to be an absolute scorcher, so I won’t need a hoodie or cardigan?”

For grey areas, or grey skies, reach for that all-purpose bomber jacket, we say.

A period of changeable weather should naturally be defined by changeable clothes. According to Lauren Cochrane, senior fashion writer for The Guardian and author of The Ten: The Stories Behind The Fashion Classics, this is overshirts and gilets’ time to shine. “I would also say the long-sleeved T-shirt,” she adds. “They can have the feel of spring while also being weather-appropriate.”

“Merino knits are the unsung heroes of my wardrobe,” Reardon says. “They’re the perfect transitional piece; they effortlessly layer for warmth and are just as easily removed, while always retaining a sense of refined elegance. Simple, easy and smart.”

When it comes to dressing for early spring, “layering is the key,” Cochrane says. “Items that look good together, but you can take off if it gets too hot or add to if it’s too cold. Items that show the thing underneath are really useful – cardigans, zip-up hoodies, blazers. That way, layering is part of the look rather than something just practical.”

There’s a reason why you might enter this new season with, well, a spring in your step. “Exposure to sunlight releases serotonin, a chemical that makes us feel focused, calm and happier,” says Shakaila Forbes-Bell, fashion psychologist and author of Big Dress Energy. “We should acknowledge that happiness and lean into it.”

To align with the shift in season, Forbes-Bell suggests “using your wardrobe to honour or change your mood”. “There are studies that have found that when we are happier, we are drawn to more visually interesting clothing – whether that be something bright, lots of patterns, different textures.”

“Always think about which piece is meant to stand out,” says Farid Hounkponou, MR PORTER Personal Shopper. “If one item has a strong colour or pattern, everything else should support it rather than compete with it. Keeping the rest of the outfit simpler helps the statement piece shine and makes the overall look feel deliberate rather than busy.”

“I love a spring clear-out,” Cochrane says. “I think it’s worth being quite harsh with it – if you haven’t worn something for six months, it might be time to say goodbye. That way, you learn what does and what doesn’t work for you, making room for new pieces that you’ll wear on repeat.”

Once you’ve made room in your wardrobe, don’t think you’ve got to start again from scratch. “A full overhaul can seem exciting, but it often ends up feeling forced or disconnected from how someone actually dresses day-to-day,” Hounkponou says. “Introducing new pieces gradually allows you to adjust, understand what really works for you and build confidence in the new direction. The end result feels much more authentic and considered.”

Now is also the time to put away weighty wool and corduroy trousers, while lighter fabrics or blends are phased in. Your chunky winter boots, too, should be switched out. Loafers or Derby shoes will prove more adaptable – just be sure to use a good protection spray if you go for suede. Another option is to lean into the fickle weather by investing in a great pair of waterproof sneakers.

And if you’re feeling particularly brave… “In early spring, I’m always eager to break out my Church’s sandals,” Reardon says. “They’re perfect for the warmer days ahead. I tend to pair them with tonal suiting from LEMAIRE.”

“Accessories are one of the easiest ways to shift someone’s style without swapping out their entire wardrobe,” Hounkponou says. “Shoes, eyewear, watches and jewellery can completely change the feel of an outfit. They’re pieces that you can keep and use for a long time, and they often give you an extra boost of confidence, which always shows.”

“I am very into vintage ties at the moment,” says Declan Chan, a stylist and co-founder of the fragrance brand AOTROM. He cites recent SAINT LAURENT shows as an influence. “I did a bit of tie shopping in Florence during Pitti Uomo to spice up the looks for fashion months.”

And while the sun is still low in the sky – and therefore more likely to be in your eyeline – sunglasses are essential.