Most guys’ summer calendars are light on engagements but barbeques, day-to-night drinking sessions and other such inevitable scenarios are sure to make an appearance.
Each of these events does have its own approach when getting dressed and here’s how to boss any social engagement with the five essential summer outfits you’ll need this season.
The Heatwave When You Still Have To Go To Work
You have two weapons at your disposal in the fight to stay cool and decent: fit and fabric. Skinny- and slim-cut clothes trap warm air against your already sweaty skin. Loosen up, and it starts to flow. “A boxy shirt will keep you cool on those hotter than hot days,” says ASOS head of menswear design Nick Eley, plain white, light blue or grey designs reflect heat and the wrath of HR.
Whichever material you choose should be just as breezy. Linen and light cotton are both covered with tiny holes, which ensures the air circulates. “Linen is a great option in tailoring or for granddad collar shirts,” says Mr Porter style director Olie Arnold. “Lightweight chinos are also office-worthy.” If shorts definitely aren’t, then a slight roll gets some ankle skin on show, to help your body dump heat. And won’t get you handed a P45.
The Wedding With The Vague Dress Code
Wedding dress codes have mutated in recent decades. Today’s couples demand things like ‘rural chic’, ‘city formal’, or just ‘fabulous’.
The safest bet is tailoring, with removable trimmings. That doesn’t mean the outfit you wear to work; after all, the shade should be celebratory. “Wear separates rather than a full suit,” advises Arnold. Neutral combinations – think navy with beige, grey with blue or white with charcoal – will work in any pictures, whether the wedding party is in tails or tees. The shirt should be plain, with a classic point or button-down collar. Then if you’re the only guy who turns up in a tie, you can pocket it.
On which note, your breast pocket should pack a bright silk square that complements your jacket – yellow or pink is suitably nuptial. If it turns out even that’s too much, you can move it to another hidden pocket.
Finally, shoes. A monk-strap is more interesting and will work both smart and casual. If you do need to take your look down yet another peg, nip to the bathroom and ditch the socks.
The Lunchtime Drink That Goes Into the night
The accidental night out involves moving from day to night, hot to cold, beer garden to, potentially, nightclub. The best way to cope with all six scenarios is layers – and a bag to stow them in. A grown-up leather tote or backpack won’t annoy bouncers and can stand up to grass – and the cloakroom – without you stressing stains.
Your footwear needs to toe the same line. A pair of sleek, minimal leather sneakers are comfortable enough for an all-dayer and will pass the dress code test (leather also wipes clean, just in case). “Team them with simple black jeans, a white T-shirt and a leather biker jacket,” says Cowell. In your bag, stow a post-club hoodie and a portable phone charger. Or spend eternity trying to flag down a cab.
The Barbecue/Brunch
Stick to this season’s new slim-fit takes, in muted tones, and your nod to tropical weather will comes across as smart.
To outflank the inevitable, top this with something waterproof. Your prudence might upset the host, so you need outerwear that doesn’t look like you expect torrents. Lightweight coats are practical, but still look cool.
The Birthday Party or House Party.
Opt for the best basics you can afford: a blazer that you’ve had tailored; slim-fit jeans cuffed just so; a Henley shirt that showcases your new bench press PB; a haircut from a high-quality barber.
Great materials and the perfect fit mean no one will be able to put their finger on why, but you know what, you’re looking just great, especially considering, you know. Then accessorize with a smile.
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