Every business professional should splurge on a plain, neutral-colored umbrella — here's why

The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships so we may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Daniel Berehulak / Staff / Getty ImagesWith all the variance in weather we’ve had recently it’s difficult to tell if seasons even really exist anymore. But regardless of whether or not spring has formally arrived, it’s probably a smart move to start preparing for the winds and rains that come with it.

One of the most essential accessories a guy needs to survive the spring is a quality umbrella.

If you invest in your wardrobe, you should consider buying a strong, reliable umbrella to protect that investment; you don’t want a sudden squall ruining your best suit because you were using one of those $5 umbrellas that street vendors sell outside the subway entrances. Put up a little extra cash up front and you'll thank yourself every time you show up to a meeting and you're the only dry one in the room.

There are a couple, more specific things to keep in mind for the business professional when buying an umbrella. It's important to keep to neutral colors like blacks, grays, and deep blues, as they're the most professional-looking. Also, make sure you get something large enough to cover all of your attire; you don't want the back of your legs drenched by the downpour.

If you're looking for something simple and small, euroSCHIRM's Light Trek umbrella ($50) is a compact model that's easy to keep on you at all times; Tumi's Medium Auto-Close Umbrella ($60) is another easy addition to your everyday bag.

For our money though, the best way to stay dry this season is with the help of London Undercover's Maple-Handle Collapsible Umbrella ($105). Although you pay a bit of a premium, you know you are getting a product of the highest quality. With its classic look complete with the maple hook handle, it will keep you dry and suave the whole day through.