5 summer wardrobe essentials for men

Summer’s hottest days can be the most difficult to dress for. If you’re heading in to work, you’ll probably be subjected to the the annual ‘shorts in the office’ debate. And what about flip flops? Are they suitable for anywhere other than the beach/pool?

It’s all about how to remain cool and comfortable, while also being stylish and occasion-appropriate. The answer lies in a curated edit of hot-weather basics, in the right fabrics, colours and shapes to slot into any occasion. Let us do the hard work for you…

A summer star is born in the shape of the chore jacket. This answers every summer outfit conundrum – it’s equal parts smart and casual, at home with everything from a linen tee to a cotton shirt. Wear open, in a solid colour, to maximise style kudos. 

As at home lounging in the garden as they are in the office (consider your co-workers before you inflict the sight of your gnarled knees upon them), chino shorts are simple, wearable and look great paired with a dark polo shirt and trainers.

For a smarter occasion (like a wedding or birthday party), try a linen suit. Summer is when this underrated hero comes into its own, looking as good deconstructed as it does as a two-piece. Dress down with a white T-shirt and trainers or up with a shirt and loafers. 

It may seem obvious, but the ideal companion to most summer outfits is a simple baseball cap, a retro accessory that’s recently found its way back to fashion’s forefront. Functional (as a sun shield) and stylish, block colours are the ones to go for. 

If you buy one thing this summer, make it a polo shirt – this versatile must-have works well for every occasion. If your budget allows, invest in different iterations for a magnitude of occasions: block colour, bold pattern and varying fabrics, to name a few.