Firstly, you need to consider whether you’re after a statement piece – a jacket that will set you apart from the crowd and convey your confidence – or a more practical, timeless silhouette you’ll be able to team with everything in your current wardrobe and wear time and time again.

It’s also important to consider the jacket’s material. You’ll want to know whether it’s waterproof and light enough for warmer days, or exclusively for layering when it’s cooler.

Once you’ve determined exactly what you’re looking for, why not consider one of these four key silhouettes…

Edgy Essentials

If you’re the type of guy that likes to channel a fashion forward, rock ‘n’ roll-inspired aesthetic – or you simply want to give your look an edge – a bomber or biker jacket is probably the best option for you.

Obviously, fabric choice is key here. Thick leather is always going to be too hot as we get closer to the summer months, even if the industry is attempting to convince us otherwise by releasing thinner, unlined leather jackets for SS14. But there are plenty of bikers and bombers out there crafted in different materials such as cotton, jersey or nylon, which are much more warm-weather appropriate.

The Biker Jacket

The biker is an iconic cut that instantly conjures images of Hollywood icons such as James Dean and Marlon Brando. However, this association has led to the biker jacket being pigeon holed as a piece that needs to be paired with tough boots, dark jeans, plain white tees and other stereotypically rugged apparel. Although we agree that this is a classic look that any man can pull off, that doesn’t mean the biker jacket can’t adapt to other aesthetics.

Why not mix it up this season by pairing yours with tailored shorts and a polo? Not only great for keeping you warm when the temperature drops in the evening, this juxtaposition of smart and edgy looks superb and oozes effortless cool.