THE JOURNAL

The lap of luxury is one thing, but until spring proper arrives, the rest of our anatomy is not to be overlooked. Or, indeed, underdressed. With, (gloved) fingers crossed, the worst of winter now behind us – Punxsutawney Phil be damned – the outlook is considerably brighter. However, we’re not out of the figurative woods yet. Below, we present eight of the finest interseasonal outerwear pieces that will keep your torso toasty in the short term, but will also shine in all those pre-springs to come. Yes, these timeless items are what we in the trade call “investment pieces”. So, swaddle yourself in great comfort for this very moment and plan ahead for the future – that’s a win-win scenario.
01.
The definitive Brunello Cucinelli cashmere coat

Cashmere might be an indulgence in its own right, but in the hands of luxury virtuoso Brunello Cucinelli, it takes on a whole new guise. This overcoat, for example, is made from the prized yarn and, with its soft, fluid drape, will be the best thing you’ve ever had wrapped around your shoulders. And the ideal style partner? More cashmere, naturally.
Wear it with
02.
The cutting-edge Loro Piana luxury rain jacket

Loro Piana’s prowess in fabric development is so good it’s the go-to for many of fashion’s powerhouses when designing their own collections. A prime example is this spring-ready jacket, which fuses traditional luxury with modern innovation. Made from virgin wool with a touch of stretch for comfort, it’s undergone a specialist treatment so any rain you encounter will roll off it like water off a duck’s back. Wear it with a pair of equally technical shell sneakers and you’ll be all set for those spring showers.
Wear it with
03.
The TOM FORD flyboy jacket for life

Chosen wisely, a shearling jacket can be a life-long addition to a wardrobe and you’re certain to be safe in your commitment with TOM FORD’s version. Made from plush lamb shearling in Italy, a nation known for its quality hides, it has just the right amount of flyboy swagger without looking like you’ve gone AWOL from the airbase. Alongside a chunky-knit cardie and indigo denim, it’s just the antidote to frosty spring mornings.
Wear it with
04.
The unlined Agnona suede shirt jacket

Almost 70 years of expertise have gone into this sharp piece by Agnona, and it shows in the details – crisp piping, plush lamb suede and a go-anywhere camp collar. The lack of a lining brings this immaculate finishing to the fore and stretches its usage out into the warmer months. It may be steeped in heritage, but it still looks fresh. Wear it with confidence – and a cashmere-blend cardigan, chambray shirt and pristine white chinos from the same Italian house.
Wear it with
05.
The Brioni silk-blend field jacket

You will never be out of pocket with this safari-style overshirt by Brioni. Generously cut for a loose fit and fashioned from a silk and linen blend, it will hold its own within most outfits and situations, giving a lot of wear time in relation to cost. Plus, you know, it’s got a lot of pockets. The utilitarian grey should work whatever your manoeuvres, but we’re teaming it with a cream polo shirt, suede loafers and, optimistically, tortoiseshell sunglasses, all from the Brioni collection. Perfect for beach landings (preferably the Ligurian Riviera).
Wear it with
06.
The Ermenegildo Zegna linen-twill overshirt

It can be easy to overcomplicate layering. Yes, it’s just sticking one item of clothing on top of another and another, but think about all the permutations that your wardrobe presents and you’ll be reaching for your Enigma cipher. The best option is a reliable piece that will work with anything. Enter this linen-twill overshirt by Ermenegildo Zegna in a resplendent camel tone. It can crack any clothing conundrum, but we particularly like it with this crinkled cotton-blend T-shirt, sparkling silk-blend white chinos and full-grain leather holdall, all by the renowned tailoring brand.
Wear it with
07.
The supple Canali suede trucker jacket

Built for mileage, if not necessarily living out of the cab of an articulated lorry, Canali’s take on the trucker jacket is a masterclass in refinement. The agile Italian suede comes in a rich navy hue that will look great on anyone. And while it would be a shame to cover it up, it can double as a mid-layer, at least as long as the cold wind blows. Or, planning for better weather, wear with a zip-up cotton cardigan, polo shirt and white jeans.
Wear it with
08.
The timeless Stòffa leather blouson

Leather jackets might be the uniform of rebels, but that doesn’t mean there has to be an element of risk when you’re buying one. This example by Stòffa has the makings of a future wardrobe staple, given that it draws inspiration from the flight jackets of the past century. Which, conversely, means this style isn’t flighty. Unlike those early pilots, it isn’t going anywhere. Elevated, however, we can work with. Try it with these other classic pieces, also by the New York label.