Now that we've got that interminably hot, globally warmed summer past us, it kinda feels like it flew by, doesn't it? Maybe the heatwave got to our brains, or we were cooped up watching Mad Men, or going to too many fashion shows. Or something. Anyway: autumn is finally here (kinda). And we've been priming you with the trends and products to pick up, but there are simpler codes by which a man must live. Transition time is over — here's how to survive the real change of the season.

1. Add the sweater, carefully.

It's time to throw away the mothballs, but it's not time for the chunky shawl collar yet — Mother Nature should help you get by on cashmere and merino until November. And just because layering is one of the great joys of being a man does not give you license to go overboard: a third layer, between your shirt and jacket, is enough for now.

2. You don't need a winter coat.

There's nothing wrong with planning ahead and picking out the cashmere, tweed, or goose-down number that'll get you through the new year, but if you start wearing it now, you will be the male equivalent of a woman wearing a fur in Boca. In April.

3. Consider the scarf.

Feel free to start now — you'll be surprised how far you can get by into the colder months on a scarf and a blazer alone — but mind the calendar for breaking out new neck fabrics: silk or cotton patterns through Columbus Day, wool-backed silk and straight-up wool 'til Week 9 of the NFL, cashmere by Thanksgiving, and chunky knit as soon as you see snow.

4. Invest in leather.

But not on your legs — unless, of course, you're going ninety on a bike. Also: no leather sport coats, ever. Still, a good leather jacket does go a long way, and for a long time — so choose something classic and clean that, six years from now, you won't feel embarrassed in.

5. The cap, not the beanie.

Just because your mother told you doesn't mean it's not true: the human body loses most of its heat up top. Your best defense? A knit cap, preferably of the circular cashmere variety, which is worth a few extra dollars for a smoother, warmer profile than its boxy brethren — and for looking like you didn't just escape from the mental institution. Or the tailgate.

6. Put on some damn socks.

There is the possibility that you haven't worn any since March. Which is your prerogative and, as long as you have the shoes to stand up to it, is just fine. But now that we're getting into brogue and boot weather, your feet just need socks. So why not make them colorful? You'll be wearing plenty of brown, blue, and gray on your back — no need to extend that to the soles of your feet.

7. Put on some new boots.

You don't have to wait for the leaves to change to lace up above the ankle. And right now, wing-tip boots or a lug-soled pair are very much worth having — suggestions here and here.

8. Tweed (up top).

We're not going to tell you again: don't waste any more time getting yourself a new sport coat, and don't be afraid to wear it three times a week.

9. Corduroy (down low).

Dress it up, dress it down, just dress it in. Like this.

10. Flannel (head to toe).

Whether to work (in a suit — double-breasted, please) or to play (wear the pants, in gray), it'll keep you as warm as you want to be. And until Election Day, at least, that's how you want it.

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