Men’s summer style is all about balancing comfort and style. Invest in essential men’s wardrobe pieces like casual shirts and shorts in breathable fabrics.
Whether propped up with a tie and suit or worn rumpled with rolled sleeves, a blue button down shirt is the perfect staple for any warm-weather outfit.
1. Sunglasses
While a pair of sunglasses may not be the most exciting item on this list, it’s one of the most important accessories to keep on hand during summer. It celebrates a legacy of wealth and sophistication. They help protect your eyes from the sun’s harsh rays, make any outfit look dressy and stylish, and will save you from a sunburn (if that’s what you’re going for).
The key to finding the perfect pair of sunglasses is to find a style that suits your face shape. Round frames suit angular or square faces, while rectangular frames are a good fit for oval and heart-shaped faces. For a classic look, consider aviator sunglasses, which feature fine-adjoining frames and lenses that give them an architectural feel. Alternatively, opt for a pair of oversized sunglasses that add a cool, retro-inspired vibe to your look.
From continental European luxury houses blending centuries of artisanal heritage with contemporary design to fashion vanguards pushing new aesthetic frontiers, this season’s covetable shades run the full sartorial spectrum. Invest in a pair of sunglasses from the likes of Oliver Peoples that pays tribute to cinematic legends or choose a pair from Co Optical that’s influenced by the sculptural masterpieces of Jean Prouve.
Whether you’re heading to the beach or an outdoor event, a lightweight hat is a summer must-have. A classic baseball hat works best, but it’s worth exploring other options as well. You can also look for hats in other shapes and colors, such as fedoras or flat caps. A light hat is a great complement to almost any outfit and can be worn to a variety of summer events, including weddings and family reunions. You can even wear it with a T-shirt dress to instantly elevate the look of a casual ensemble.
2. Button Down Shirt
If there is one item every man needs this summer, it’s a button down shirt. Button down shirts bridge the gap between casual tees and dress shirts, allowing men to look stylish, put-together and relaxed all at once. A good quality button down is lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for warm weather wear. Pairing it with tailored pants or chinos, the right shoes and accessories can create a polished, sophisticated outfit perfect for any occasion.
While polo shirts have gotten a bad reputation on MFA and are often seen worn by prep school kids or old guys at the golf course, they can actually be quite useful during the summer. They are very comfortable, especially if you choose to purchase a high-quality fabric like cotton or linen. Polos are also incredibly versatile, being suitable for both business casual wear and smart-casual outfits.
The key to wearing a polo well is to avoid baggy fits, branding and synthetic materials. Instead, look for a shirt with sleeves that hit mid-bicep and a slight taper through the body. You should also opt for a rounded hem and avoid any buttons or stripes on the collar.
Another great option for men who need to stay cool during the summer is a pair of chino pants or shorts. Chinos are generally lighter than jeans, and they have a more tailored fit, which is ideal for warm weather wear. If you want to stay even more comfortable, try a pair of lightweight linen pants. They’re perfect for hot, humid days, and they breathe much better than denim. They’re also more appropriate for work-appropriate outfits, and they can be paired with a light linen button down shirt for a classic, refined look.
3. Chino Pants & Shorts
Originally used as military uniforms for their breathable and comfortable nature, chinos have since become one of the most versatile pants for men to own. They can be worn casually when paired with a t-shirt or professionally with a dress shirt, making them an excellent choice for a variety of occasions. Additionally, they are highly durable and made with high-quality materials, ensuring that they will last for years to come.
Whether you need to attend a formal event, work in business casual attire, or just want to feel confident on a casual outing, a pair of chinos is an essential wardrobe item for any man. They can be easily dressed up or down with the right accessories and shoes, allowing you to create a wide range of stylish looks.
For a smart-casual look, pair your chinos with a polo or button down shirt and classic leather belt. You can even add a blazer for an extra dose of style and professionalism. When it comes to shoes, loafers or desert boots are ideal for a sophisticated look while sneakers are great for casual settings. Tucked in chinos give off a polished and professional appearance, while leaving them untucked offers a laid-back and casual aesthetic.
Chino shorts are also a must for any summer wardrobe. For a more polished look, pair your chinos with tucked in shirts and a suit jacket or navy blazer. For a more casual look, you can wear your chinos with a t-shirt and sneakers. SANVT’s chino shorts are made with premium quality fabric that will not fade over time, so you can wear them for years to come. Additionally, they are designed with back welt pockets and a tonal logo patch for added style.
4. Loafers
One of the most versatile shoes a man can own, loafers are casual yet dressy enough for nearly any occasion. They are perfect for the summer and can be worn with jeans, trousers, chinos or shorts – just remember to wear them with a polished look.
To get the most out of your loafers, it’s best to stick with traditional styles in neutral colors like brown or black. This will allow them to pair well with any outfit and will make your shoes the focal point of the ensemble instead of a distraction. However, if you’re looking to add some color to your outfits then you can choose to go for a tassel loafer or one with some eye-catching detail like a brighter sole or unique colorway.
If you’re planning on wearing your loafers to work, consider opting for a Goodyear welted shoe with leather lining and an unlined upper. This style will give your loafers a little extra longevity and ensure that they keep their shape. In addition, if you plan on wearing them with formal attire then you should look for a suede or patent leather loafer.
Derek Guy recommended Edward Green’s Piccadilly in a dark brown leather as the perfect loafer for pairing with tailored clothing, especially a suit. Simon Crompton, on the other hand, prefers a more relaxed dandy feel and recommends Alden’s Tassel Loafer in a full strap shell leather. The latter will also pair well with linen suits and other lightweight tailoring. Both pairs of loafers are the ideal addition to a wardrobe of classic menswear staples like a slim fit linen blazer from Brunello Cucinelli and a featherweight cashmere suit from Brioni.
5. Leather Bifold Wallet
Men need to carry their cash, credit cards and identification during summer and beyond. While you could buy a cheap velcro wallet at the discount store, it’s much better to invest in a leather bifold that will last. Bull Sheath Leather offers several slim options that fit perfectly in a front pocket and provide room for a handful of cards and folded cash.
When it comes to casual attire, there are few wardrobe staples that come as versatile and stylish as a denim jacket. This men’s accessory is perfect for layering over a casual button down shirt or tee during warm weather. If you’re going to be spending a long day outdoors, a baseball cap will help shield your face from the sun.
For a dressier look, men can opt for a lightweight linen or wool suit in a soft gray, blue, or white color that will keep them cool and comfortable all summer. The best part is that this look can also be worn to a casual event like a barbecue or patio dinner.
A good pair of sunglasses, a quality button down shirt, and leather loafers are all essential men’s summer clothes, but what really elevates these outfits is the finishing touches. A woven bracelet, for example, can add texture and a hint of ruggedness to any outfit while a luxury dive watch will give your summer style an extra dapper touch.
Men’s fashion is evolving this year with a revival of the preppy aesthetic and relaxed resort wear vibes. The season’s color palette ranges from vibrant primary hues to softer pastel shades that reflect the warm-weather spirit. Whether you’re dressing for a casual BBQ, an office happy hour, or a formal wedding, the right pieces will make you feel confident and prepared for summer.
