We all know wool is versatile stuff, but ideal for the tropics? So-called tropical cloths hover below the 10-ounce mark (positively stout by today's standards) but for many clothes enthusiasts remain the benchmark for conservative warm-climate dress. Of course not all tropicals are equal. Many are tightly woven, slippery, lustrous… and about as breathable as a sandwich bag.

H Lesser's, pictured below, are rather different. This edited collection is matte, breathable, traditional and dry. For the true tropics? Perhaps not. But certainly ideal for summer throughout much of the US. Which hints at the final point to be made about lighter cloth: despite the bone-chattering current weather, now is the time to see your tailor for those balmy months ahead.