“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, shirts. That way, layering is part of the look rather than something just practical.”

Declan Chan is a stylist and co-founder of the fragrance brand AOTROM – he splits his time between Hong Kong and London, so adapting what he wears for the weather is a must. “Sometimes, I will layer a polo on top of a shirt before I wear a suit. The easy way to make the layering interesting is keeping the colour similar, but the texture different.”

Remember that cartoon in The New Yorker where the same temperature in spring and autumn hits different? We can get carried away when it comes to our choice of outfits at this time of the year. But then maybe we should.

“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.”

It’s the same reason why our winter wardrobes tend to be subdued. “When we are sad, we are more drawn to things that are physically appealing,” Forbes-Bell says. “Softer fabrics, so the sense of touch rather than sight.” Her advice: stash the cashmere and go with something that catches the eye instead.

“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.”

If you’ve outgrown an item – metaphorically or otherwise – you should consider passing it on. MR PORTER’s RESELL service allows you to help reduce landfill waste and make a tidy profit from selling on your clothes. Win-win.

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 Derbies 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.

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

Accessories can make or break an outfit. And forget that diktat from Coco Chanel about taking the last thing off – flip it and reverse it.

“I’m desperate for a handbag,” Reardon says. “I’m currently toying between the Andiamo from Bottega Veneta and the Puzzle by LOEWE. Both feel like the perfect addition to my wardrobe this spring.”

“I am very into vintage ties at the moment,” Chan says, citing 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.”

“Gloves are a must for me,” Reardon adds. “Small but impactful, they can transform a chilly morning. I also keep a compact cashmere scarf tucked into my jacket pocket. It’s light enough to carry around, but perfect for a quick fix when the temperature drops unexpectedly.”

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