The expert guide to effortless summer style
GQ’s contributing fashion editor Nick Carvell and grooming and style editor Luke Todd give us the lowdown on dressing for the summer
While we’ve already experienced one British heatwave, the summer’s hottest days are (hopefully) still ahead of us. And with the world gradually opening up – and many of us having forgotten how to dress in public – a quick refresher course in summer dressing has never been more important. Here’s our experts’ take on what to wear and how to wear it.
Pair colours carefully
‘A general rule for summer is to think in tones when you’re trying to put colours together,’ says Nick. ‘So if you’re going for something in a zingy highlighter bright, pair it with a more subtle tone to keep it under control.’
If in doubt, choose an overshirt
Layering is simple, once you know how to do it. ‘One of the smartest things a man can learn about getting dressed is how to layer his clothes,’ explains Luke. ‘Not only will this add depth to your looks, but it will also allow you to adapt your daytime outfits to after-dark mode with ease. An overshirt is something of a silver bullet for changeable weather. On milder days, it works well worn open over a crew neck T-shirt, then in autumn it can also be deployed over a thinner shirt or lightweight roll neck jumper.’
Go for a Breton stripe
If you’re ready to dive into prints but don’t know where to start, try a classic stripe. ‘They make any outfit feel summery,’ explains Nick. ‘Slip a classic stripe shirt under a light navy suit or your favourite casual get up. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous and want to play with pattern, throw one on under a light flannel shirt.’
Choose a Cuban shirt
Out with the Oxford, in with the Cuban. ‘Cuban shirts are always an excellent option in the summer as they feel smart, but never stiff,’ Nick explains. ‘If you’re trying one for the first time, ease yourself in with a monochrome print. It will be easier to blend into your existing wardrobe and you have less chance of accidentally looking like an extra from Hawaii 5-0.’
Add in linen
Many men fear linen because of its high maintenance connotations but once you find the right pieces, you’ll never go back, claims Nick. ‘A linen jacket with matching tailored linen shorts for trousers, worn with a white T-shirt, looks great,’ he says. ‘It’s a smart workwear option for the summer as it’s put together but relaxed without being slouchy. Look for heavier linen, which has less of a tendency to crease in the heat.’
