It can be hard to know what to wear in spring. Temperatures not only have a wide span day by day, but even a warm and shorts-worthy afternoon can quickly turn into a sweater-and-jeans type of night. But that variability is also what makes getting the right fits more interesting. From light jackets and shorts to sneakers and bright watches, this spring style guide for men has all of the things you need to up your wardrobe this spring.
Birdwell Racing Jacket
You don’t have to possess mad driving skills to pull off this retro automotive racing jacket, although calling it retro is a bit of a misnomer since the jacket has been part of the Birdwell line since 1962, and it has held up for modern times. The white and gold racing stripes pop against the navy SurfNyl fabric body that resists moisture and breathes for comfort, and the weight is just right for spring. Important details like rugged double stitch construction, double brass zippers, and a sleeve pocket add practicality, and it’s all hand-cut and sewn right in California. –Amos Kwon
$200
Clark’s Wallabee Cup Boot
The famous Clark’s Desert Boot is a classic, but if you want the same quality with a more contemporary style, the new Wallabee Cup Boot works beautifully. The preppy style includes the use of premium nubuck uppers, a soft suede collar, and an extra-tall rubber pebble crepe sole that feels like you’re walking on pillows. It comes in six colorways. Our favorite is the white nubuck with the blue collar. The Cup Boot comes with two leather fobs that match each colorway, but you should remove them before stepping out on the town. –Amos Kwon
$170
The Dress Collar Polo
[Partner] Collars & Co. has come up with one of the best hacks we’ve ever heard of. It’s a four-way stretch, lightweight, comfortable polo. But the top has a firm collar on it. So you get the look of a crisp dress shirt without the feeling of wearing a crisp dress shirt. It feels just like a comfortable polo. Wear it on its own. Or pair it with a blazer or sweater for a more formal vibe.
Check out Collars & Co. today.
Flint & Tinder’s 365 Shorts
[Partner] When it comes to the warm weather uniform, there are few things as important as a pair of comfortable, stylish and well-fitting shorts. Enter Flint and Tinder with their 365 short. They’re carefully constructed from an 8oz blended fabric that’s cut like a chino but designed to stretch like a performance short, which makes them perfect for all your daily adventures. Add to that the fact they come in a variety of color and 3 different inseam lengths and you’re covered year round.
Even better, you get two pairs for $130 here.
Good Life Clothing Sun Faded Micro Terry Hoody
Springtime means the beginning of beach time but maybe not getting in the cold water just yet. For those peaceful walks or just watching the sunset, this hoody is perfect. Soft, absorbent, and modified with stretch, the micro terry fabric makes the hoody go on easy, and you just might refuse to take it off. The pigment dye gives it a soft look that will fade nicely over time. The ribbed sleeve cuffs and scalloped hem round out the set with style. Available in five spring-y colors. –Amos Kwon
$98
BOLDR Supply Venture Rally III Wells Junior
Seasonal watches aren’t really an horological segment, but the Venture Rally III Wells Junior could easily qualify as a member of the spring set. Bright yellow pops on the dial, tachymeter bezel, and on the nylon NATO strap. The 38mm titanium chronograph case is tough and light, and the Japanese SII VK64 Mecaquartz movement performs super-accurate timekeeping duties. AR sapphire glass provides excellent scratch and impact resistance, and the screwdown crown keeps water, dust, and dirt at bay. Low-light legibility is aided by Japan Superlum, and the NATO strap gets titanium hardware that matches the watch case. –Amos Kwon
$299
Cariuma Catiba Pro Grey
These skateboarding kicks can be worn by guys who have no intention of shredding much more than a block of cheddar. The grey and white colorway is perfect for the transition from winter into spring, and the faded organic cotton canvas is soft and textured. The slip-resistant natural rubber sole eschews the synthetic EVA used in most sneakers. The enviro-conscious brand also uses bio-based cork for the insole and recycled plastic for the laces. Triple stitching means they won’t come apart should you actually decide to go to the skate park to risk life and limb. –Amos Kwon
$89
Buffalo Trace Yellowstone Trucker Hat
The green and white colorway of this traditional trucker hat is just right to kick off spring, and the Buffalo Trace bourbon and Yellowstone TV show logos are front and center as part of the brand line that celebrates the appearance of Buffalo Trace Bourbon on the popular Western show starring Kevin Costner. The white mesh back has a matching adjustable snap strap, contrasting the bold green front. It doesn’t scream product placement all that much while providing casual style for the warmer months. –Amos Kwon
$29
Proper Cloth Non-Iron Supima Shirt in Light Blue Gingham
Spring’s first dress shirt should be this bright, happy, and wrinkle-free. The 100s 2-ply cotton gets treated for an unfrazzled look that’ll have you looking more put together than regular cotton. The light blue gingham check works just as well without a blazer as it does with. And, as with all Proper Cloth shirting, you can customize the fit, collar, cuffs, hem, pocket, placket, and just about everything else yolu can think of. –Amos Kwon
$110
Topo Designs Dirt Pant
When warmer weather beckons you to get outdoors without showing off your legs, Topo’s Dirt Pants can handle just about anything from yard work to the farmer’s market to rock climbing. The soft but tough garment dyed organic cotton has added stretch for real activity, and the drawstring and button fly secure everything nicely. Side pockets and a back patch pocket hold small gear items, and you can choose between seven spring-ready colors. –Amos Kwon
$109
Jordan Artist Series by Umar Rashid
[Partner] Iconic LA-based artist Umar Rashid (aka Frohawk Two Feathers) is bringing his signature style to Nike’s exclusive Jordan Artist Series of clothing. His collection is “all about flight and tenacity,” showcasing his signature style—imagery that constructs alternative historical narratives, referencing a collection of cultures to collapse geography and time. Three separate pieces of comfy and stylish as hell clothing (flight fleece pants, a long-sleeve tee and a flight fleece pullover hoodie) all decked out with bold illustrations and text, and available in white on brown or brown on white options.
Check it out here.
Wellcore Hormone Optimization
[Partner] Instead of just refreshing your wardrobe this spring, it’s time to refresh your outlook on aging. 40% of men have low testosterone, levels are decreasing by 1% year over year and an estimated 60 million men in the U.S. have deficiency. Those are scary numbers, but Wellcore can help. This scientifically-backed at-home hormone therapy program will improve daily functions, regulate energy and even impact bone density.
Even better, code COOLVIP gets you the entire kit for just $19 (a savings of $180) when you sign up here.
Bulova Devil Diver
Bulova rightly revived its classic ‘70s Devil Diver in 2021 with a stunning orange and black colorway, but its this verdant green-dialed version is the perfect one for spring spring. The big 44mm diameter x 15mm thick stainless steel tonneau case wears smaller than its measurements would indicate, and the Miyota 821D mechanical automatic movement gets ISO-rated shock protection. Just like the original Devil Diver, depth rating is 666 feet, or just over 200 meters, probably not deep enough for the netherworlds, but still. Capping off the watch is a two-tone acrylic inset bezel and a double curved boxed sapphire glass crystal for excellent scratch and impact resistance. The watch comes on a three-link brushed and polished bracelet. –Amos Kwon
$636
GardenHeir Clog
In the last year, new brand GARDENHEIR has positioned itself as the leader in making fashionable, affordable, and comfortable garden apparel. Their most popular offering, which you may have seen on the feet of stylish influencers and veteran gardeners alike, are their Italian Garden Clogs. Available in a rainbow of colors from subtle shades of brown and black to more vibrant Meyer Lemon, these clogs upgrade your wardrobe without breaking the bank. With a sleek Polyurethane design that’s perfect for the unpredictable Spring weather, and a cork insole that molds to your foot over time, it’s my top recommendation for those looking to add a little injection of style to their workwear. –Brett Braley
$78
Artemis Slippers
Artemis Design Co’s slippers are the perfect blend of old world charm and modern design, mixed seamlessly together. Using Turkish carpets as the basis of these slippers, each pair is a unique look at traditional craftsmanship and the heritage behind it. With various patterns to choose from, you’re able to select a pattern that can elevate just about any outfit. I prefer the slippers to the loafers for its ease, wearing them as house shoes with a robe when I go out to get the mail or sit in the morning with my dogs while I have my coffee. But, because of their fascinating look and superb construction, they would look killer for the fast-approaching wedding season, giving your drab suit a much-needed pop of color and texture. –Brett Braley
$268
Toast Half Placket Shirt
Toast creates garments that beg to be worn and their Half Placket Short Sleeve Shirt is no different. Somewhere between a polo and a chore coat, the Half Placket shirt has a workwear feel, but with a bit of a European touch to it. With its small touches of detailing, such as the button on the sleeve hem and the patch pocket that’s just the right size to stuff a book in there, you’re looking at a shirt that works well for lazy, rainy days in the Spring or perhaps a beach trip you might have planned. With a boxy construction to throw on and go, pair it with a pair of shorts for a no-brainer outfit that looks good every time. –Brett Braley
$260
Yellow 108 scarf
Sometimes us men get the short end of the stick when it comes to accessories and I have to say, I’m getting a little tired of it. Sure, I have ties and the occasional bandana, but I was on the lookout for something with a little more…how should I put it? Pizzazz. Yellow 108’s neck scarf fit that bill. Adding a little bit of dandyism with a plain white oxford is just the sort of Italian vibe I’m going for this season. The scarf is small enough that it isn’t weighty so you won’t feel suffocating while still giving you a bit of protection from the elements (or to absorb a little sweat on the hotter days in Spring). And, bonus, you can wrap it around your favorite Stetson for a great twist on a classic cowboy look. –Brett Braley
$40
Quaker Marine Long-Sleeve Polo
Quaker Marine is known for their famed Oysterman hat (just google Hemingway in his!), but their clothing line is a gold mine of wearable outdoorsy pieces that marry form and function well. Take, for instance, their Long Sleeve Polo in a blue and white rugby stripe. Made from 100% indigo-dyed cotton, it’s breathable while still retaining a bit of insulation if you’re on the shore or just hanging out at home. The fit is described as modern, with a tapered-in silhouette that fits most body types and the rugby stripes give it a classic, preppy look that will never go out of style. In fact, wearing this rugby season after season will only fade the indigo dye more and make it feel like something you’ve had since your summers at Martha’s Vineyard (or whatever other story you’ll tell to impress others). –Brett Braley
$98
Percival Cabin Weave Shirt
While Percival makes great clothes all year ‘round, it’s hard to deny that their Spring collection is really hitting it out of the park. The Cabin Weave shirt is a great example of this. This crocheted short-sleeve shirt has all the makings of the perfect top to throw on when you want to give your wardrobe a boost. With its zig-zag pattern and contrast accents at the collar and sleeves, it adds just enough irreverence to an outfit without being (God forbid) ostentatious or (worse) “noisy”. With its breathable cotton and, being crocheted, you’re getting a breathable shirt at a fair price for the amount of work and design that goes into a garment like this. I’d recommend going whole-hog and wearing it with a blazer and chinos for the ultimate upgrade to a semi-formal party attire. –Brett Braley
$225
AF Button Knit Polo
The Abercrombie & Fitch we all loved to hate in high school is gone and has been replaced with a mature fashion-forward brand. The new A&F feels like a grown-up version of itself, in the big leagues with brands like J. Crew and Banana Republic. Take, for instance, this very on-trend Button-Through Sweater Polo from the brand. If you’re looking to get your Mr. Ripley on this Spring and Summer, I’d stock up on a few of these polos. Coming in a variety of colorways, the button-through sweater polo can be dressed up or down for the ultimate sprezzatura look. I’d stick with the solid colors, as Dickie Greenleaf might, and go with a tonal look that can be worn for work or play. Or, go a bit crazy with their patterned polos to add a bit of fun to your Spring wardrobe. Either way, you can’t go wrong. –Brett Braley
$70
Billie Todd Cashmere Hoodie
As much as I want it to be warmer, the reality is that cold days are still ahead for folks like me living in the mid-Atlantic region. But Billie Todd has me covered – literally. Their Two-Ply Cashmere Hoodie is going to be my go-to sweatshirt to throw on anytime the weather dips below 60 here. What I love about this hoodie is that Billie Todd took the basic garment design we all know and love and elevated it into the luxury category. Cashmere’s softness, durability, and natural insulation and moisture-wicking really give this hoodie an edge over its cotton cousins, making it the one you’ll be grabbing for every time the sky’s a little greyer than you’d like. And, coming in three muted colors, it’s easy to integrate this hoodie into your wardrobe due to its neutral versatility. –Brett Braley
$420
Paravel Weekender Bag
Hopefully you have a fun trip planned and, if so, it may be time to upgrade your luggage. Or, that’s my excuse for ordering a new Paravel Weekender Bag the other week. Paravel’s high-quality touchpoints go above and beyond its pricetag, giving you a real entry-point into the luxury market while still making products that are rugged and can take a beating during transit. The weekender bag is one such product. Taking design notes from vintage luggage (and a bit of Wes Anderson, too), these bags are a classy alternative to the de rigeur dufflebag most of us seem to cram full of clothes the night before a trip. –Brett Braley
$295
Hemingsworth Swim Short
Hemingsworth elevates the basics through a lens of British sensibility, and their Clipper Swimshorts exemplify this. With classic tailoring combined with the ubiquitous board short, you get a kind of swimwear you want to wear. The short has a sensible cut at the mid-thigh with a modern, comfortable fit throughout. The real kicker on these swim shorts is the side-tab adjustable waistband, making it easy to adjust for your body shape and fluctuating weight, making this a garment that’s going to stick with you for years to come. And like all good swim shorts, the mesh lining keeps everything in place and comfortable for longer wear from days at the beach to nights at the hot tub. –Brett Braley
$226
Duer Performance Denim
Duer makes denim to live in and their relaxed jeans are my go-to when the weather starts to warm up. I’m not really a sweatpants kind of guy, so when I need to do yardwork or some spring cleaning, I grab these jeans. This is, in part, because of the durability of the jean and also the high-stretch denim that doesn’t lose its shape and can really take a beating. I own a few pairs but find their Galatic color is most reminiscent of a classic blue jean, making it easy to incorporate into my daily wardrobe so it’s not just another “work jean.” And best of all, with the nicer weather, I’m riding my bike more and these jeans never bunch up in all the wrong places like some of my more classic denim does. –Brett Braley
$139
