To help get you through the summer months in style, we’re set to highlight ten warm-weather classics that should be in every style-conscious gent’s capsule wardrobe.
If you don’t already own all of these, it’s time you added them to your shopping list.
1. The White Linen Shirt
Light, airy and breathable, the linen shirt is a definite must-have when it comes to keeping comfortable in the heat.
Not only will a white option work with a knitted tie for hot days in the city, it’s also ideal for rolling up and throwing in your suitcase for a summer getaway – wear it to the bar or by the pool, it will see you through any holiday scenario in style.
Image: Mango Man SS15
Recommended
Slim-Fit White Linen Shirt, available at Mango, priced £22.99.
2. Slim Chino Shorts
As the mercury rises, you’re going to want to let your legs breathe in a pair of shorts. And the most versatile style on the market has to be the slim-cut chino short, which looks just as good teamed with a short-sleeved shirt and pair of leather loafers as it does a plain white tee and trainers.
Opt for a pair in grey, khaki or navy and we guarantee you’ll be living in them for the next few months.
Image: Next SS15
Recommended
Chino Shorts, available at Next, priced £15.
3. Tailored Swim Shorts
Swimwear has come a long way since the garish, baggy board shorts of the nineties, with many contemporary brands now producing designs that could quite easily be mistaken for chino shorts.
Typically cut slim through the leg and featuring an adjustable waistband (rather than a traditional elasticated drawstring waist) for a better drape, these tailored swim shorts not only look suave down by the pool, but can be paired with your linen shirt for sunset drinks at the bar.
Prioritise quick drying options to ensure comfort, and pick a timeless hue such as navy or black for ultimate versatility.
Image: David Gandy for Autograph at Marks & Spencer
Recommended
David Gandy For Autograph Indigo Swim Shorts, available at Marks & Spencer, priced £25.
4. The Lightweight Blazer
Stuffy wool blazers and summer heat do not mix, making a lightweight, unlined jacket a priority addition to your formal wardrobe this season.
Opt for breathable linen, cotton or linen-cotton blends to ensure comfort in high temperatures, and stick to versatile shades such as navy or beige that you know will match with everything you already own.
Dress it up with sharply-cut trousers, a white Oxford button-down and textured tie for a summer wedding, or combine with lightweight denim and a plain tee for a night out.
Image: J.Crew 2015
Recommended
Ludlow Sportcoat In Italian Cotton, available at J.Crew, priced £114.
5. White Trousers
White trousers are a menswear classic than many guys continue to shy away from.
Setting aside the practicality aspect, white trousers are extremely easy to wear and will anchor every colour under the sun, from primary red and yellow to sky blue and mint green.
The ideal way of making a statement without trying too hard, combine them with your linen shirt and lightweight blazer for a Riviera-inspired aesthetic, or team with a white piqué polo and minimal trainers for an on-trend all-white look.
It’s imperative you get the fit right with these – aim for a slim-cut style that hits just around the ankle.
Image:
Recommended
Hampton Slim-Fit White Trousers, available at Reiss, priced £75.
6. Suede Loafers
One of our five footwear styles every man should own, the suede loafer is arguably the perfect smart-casual silhouette.
Lightweight, breathable and versatile, the suede loafer – whether tasselled or penny – looks just as good with a linen suit as it does a simple shorts and shirt combination. It’s also the perfect design for going sockless, helping bring a touch of continental flair to your summertime looks.
Opt for a pair in tan, beige or light brown for maximum wearability.
Image: Suitsupply SS15
Recommended
Brown Suede Tassel Loafer, available at Suitsupply, priced £199.
7. The Breton T-Shirt
Originally introduced as the official uniform of the French Navy, the Breton tee has gone on to cement itself as a true menswear icon over the past 100 years.
Now considered a wardrobe essential, this easy throw-on piece works seamlessly within a multitude of looks, from authentic nautical getups to smart Riviera-inspired ensembles.
With everyone from Picasso and James Dean to Ryan Gosling and David Beckham having been spotted in this classic, you’ll be in good company.
Image: Uniqlo SS15
Recommended
Indigo Striped Short Sleeve T-Shirt, available at UNIQLO, priced £14.90.
8. A Pair Of Timeless Sunglasses
Sunglasses will forever remain a summer essential, for both practical and aesthetic reasons.
For a pair that you won’t be trading in next year, be sure to prioritise classic silhouettes that have stood the test of time. Shapes such as the aviator, wayfarer and clubmaster never go out of style, guaranteeing you’ll get your money’s worth.
Just be sure to try them on first before buying.
Image: Penshoppe SS15
Recommended
Ray-Ban Clubmaster Sunglasses, available at ASOS, priced £125.
9. The Cotton Piqué Polo Shirt
One step up from a simple tee, a cotton piqué polo shirt is the perfect bridge piece for both casual and formal occasions.
To keep things refined, make sure you select a slim, tailored version with minimal branding that will look just a smart with shorts as it does layered under a summer suit.
A crisp white option will prove itself invaluable year-round, while styles in navy and grey are equally versatile.
Image: Massimo Dutti NYC 5th Avenue SS15
Recommended
Double Collar Polo Shirt, available at Massimo Dutti, priced £25.95.
10. The Leather Holdall
What’s the best way to transport all your summer essentials while you’re on the move? A classic leather holdall, of course.
Go for timeless black and brown leather options, which not only look elegant and refined, but will start to develop their own unique patina and character over time, making your bag truly personal to you.
When it comes to purchasing, dimensions matter, so look for something no larger than 55cm wide (enabling it to double up as cabin baggage for holidays) and make sure it’s lightweight enough to be carried with ease. A detachable, padded shoulder strap will also ensure comfort over long periods.
Image: Mango Man SS13
Recommended
Weekend Bag, available at Mango, priced £169.99.