Here at Mode A La Nix, we’ve been spending a lot of time looking forward to fall.  But before fall comes spring (…and summer!  Woo Hoo!) so we thought we’d take some time out of our busy schedules, with New York Fashion week in full swing, and give you the low-down on five spring essentials every man should be on the look out for before the weather gets warmer and the outdoor seating becomes available.  Spring will be here before you know it…don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Gearing up for spring seems simple enough right?  Bust out the shorts, the comfortable tee’s, maybe some sandals.  But what most men forget about spring is that it isn’t quite summer.  The weather can still get  frisky and the sartorial demands can change from one event to the next (think semi-formal work meeting followed by casual cocktails on a hotel rooftop with no time in-between to change).  Versatility is the key to spring.  The 5 items below should  help you keep looking fresh to death no matter what the forecast calls for:

Cardigan by Gant Rugger

1)  Cardigan

Spring weather can be a bit unpredictable and the temperatures can change with little warning.  One of the most important weapons in your closet’s arsenal will be the cardigan.  Its classic enough that you can dress it up for more formal occasions, but casual enough that you can bring it to the beach.  With so many different ways to wear (buttoned, unbuttoned, over your shoulders or tied around your waist) it’s also versatile enough to keep up with the changing weather patterns.  Also be sure to purchase a cardigan in a neutral solid color to ensure it will work in as many ensembles as possible.  I recommend a dove gray  or a navy blue….maybe a maroon if you’re feeling wild.

Shoes by Sebago

2) Boat Shoes

The boat shoe has been my spring/summer go-to footwear since I became old enough to pick out my own clothes in the morning.  Boat shoes fit into almost any occasion and can be worn with jeans, chinos or shorts.  They can be paired with professional attire during working hours or worn with rolled up khakis on a weekend trip to the cape.  Best of all, these shoes were literally designed to take a beating, so you dont have to worry about getting them wet or dirty.  Stick to the classic designs and stray away from “updated” versions that tend to look  tacky.

Bag by Burberry Prosum

3) Carry-All

I have never been a big fan of the “murse.”  I find men that carry tiny little purses around with them look completely ridiculous.  It is an accessory men were never meant to have.  A large carry-all, however, is not an accessory; it is a “lifestyle tool.”  Spring marks the beginnings of weekend getaways and outdoor pool parties.  A stylish carry-all will ensure that you’ve got enough trunk space for all those extra items you need to carry around with you all the while looking stylish and put together.  You have my full permission to kiss your backpack goodbye.

Jacket by Maison Martin Margiela

4) Cotton Blazer

It may be getting hot outside but most workplaces will not make adjustments to their dress codes in order to accomodate the changing weather patterns.  And the wool suit coats that kept you warm during the fall and winter are just too heavy to keep you looking and feeling cool in spring.  Cue the cotton blazer.  The fabric is much lighter and the look professional enough for work.  The kicker?  Its also versatile.  Pair it with some slacks and a tie for the office, or wear it over jeans and a t-shirt to stand out at your boss’s next BBQ.

Cologne by Dolce & Gabbana 

5) Spring Fragrance

OK, so I will admit that a spring fragrance has nothing to do with versatility.  I am including it in this list because it is one of the most common mistakes men make in the transition from winter to spring.  Just like your wardrobe changes according to the seasons, so should your scent.  You wouldn’t wear a wool overcoat in July, why would you wear the same cologne?  The earthy-woody tones that are perfect for the colder months don’t quite work in warmer weather.  For spring and summer look for fragrances that have citrus or floral notes.  Thierry Mugler Cologne To Go, Burberry Sport, and Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Pour Homme are great examples of great summer scents.  Think light-hearted and fun; your sex life will thank me later.

Photos by Mr. Porter & Dolce & Gabbana

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