MR PORTER’s guide to early-summer dressing.

For anyone who has longed for the warm embrace of sunlight during perpetual months of twilight gloom, it might seem like this time would never come. The bright, crisp mornings deliver a much-needed mood boost, and lessen the urge to curl up in front of a fire and hibernate. But this welcome shift in seasons also presents some quandaries, particularly in the style department. It isn’t quite hot, but not cold either. It’s that odd, in-between time, when you leave the house in the morning shivering, but by noon, you’re sweltering in your cashmere. So, what do you wear on days like these?

Although it’s not cold enough for a heavy coat, it’s still a bit too chilly in the mornings to step out without some kind of protective layer. So why not ditch the weighty cover-up in favour of a cardigan? A cosy shawl-collar style, such as this one from Incotex, is a laid-back yet polished substitute. You might feel that going down the “aloha” shirt route now would be peaking a bit too early, in which case, this Officine Generale style should be on your radar. Its folky, jacquard motif has a discreet, summery vibe that won’t make you look like you should be in the Bahamas sipping a drink garnished with a cocktail umbrella.

Smarter and more lightweight than denim, chinos are an ideal choice when the mercury’s on the rise. This navy pair from Ami is easy to dress up or down, and truly deserving of the term wardrobe staple. Roll the cuffs up an inch for extra style points. Sandals are best reserved for when it hits 25ºC, but leather boots and brogues are inevitably going to lead to an unhygienic, clammy instep. These suede Castañer slip-ons, on the other hand, are the ideal between-the-seasons shoe, with their clever hybrid espadrille-cum-penny-loafer design. Team yours with no-show socks for a clean look.

Squinting through that cataract-inducing UV glare isn’t going to do you any good, so treating yourself to some new shades about now is, we feel, quite justified. These Cutler And Gross sunglasses take inspiration from 1950s D-frame styles, which remain as popular today as ever – a testament to the design’s staying power. Wear them to add a dash of mid-century flair to any look. If you’ve done away with the coat, you’ll want somewhere to stow your personal effects to avoid over-stuffed trouser pockets. This butter-soft holdall from Álvaro has been crafted in Florence and has plenty of room for all the essentials. And, should summer prove a complete washout, it makes a great cabin carry-on if you decide to jet off in search of warmer pastures.