Peel those mankets off, change into a pair of comfortable shorts, and purchase some plastic flip flops. Gentlemen, it is summertime, and there are no rules. The past few years expected us to be prim and proper, and the clothes had to be fitted. Not this time around. No way.
Let’s take a lesson or two from ocean’s waves, let’s go our own way. Loose fitting shirts will be a wardrobe staple this summer. Le 31 put out the Longline T-shirt. It is a tad oversized, and comes in several different colours – you have olive green, white, blue, tan, and powder blue. Think 1990s all over again.
Le 31’s t-shirts will go great with their Sporty Sweatpant Bermudas – yes, they are shorts. The pairing – with either a gray, black or blue short – says, “I’m chill, I’m laid back.” Trust us. Complete the outfit with a solid colour plastic sandal or solid -coloured running sneaker.
Another kind of t-shirt that has to be hanging up in your closet is the ombre shirt. No, the ombre look is not just for women’s hair. The trend is to have a funky, bright colour on top, that fades down to white or gray. Simple and chill.
As for running sneakers, Newbalance offers reasonably priced items, and they are high quality. One shoe to look out for is from the 420 Sneakers line; they have that “retro-style design.”
Christopher Bates is a designer to keep an eye out for. He understands that men – although it is okay to be reserved and proper – need to be wild and free. And well, that is the feel for summer 2015 in menswear.
Bates loves solids. He pairs simple screen printed t-shirts with light, solid-coloured cardigans and tailored shorts. That is a great look for attending a beach brunch, or if you are hitting the
road with your favourite road trip pals.
If you are looking to dress up a bit, Bates will inspire in that department as well. Bates loves white, so take a fitted white t-shirt and pair it with loose fitting tuxedo pants; be sure to include solid-coloured suspenders in the outfit – they must be hanging off the back of the pants though. The look will come to life with a sleek wingtip shoe.
While we are talking about dressing up – you know, when you are out in the city at a cocktail or garden party – it is best to mix and match. Try a mohair and wool suit jacket, Hawaiian-patterned linen shirt, and solid-coloured tie on for size.
Down below, sport solid-coloured, fitted shorts, or a darker denim. Complete your outfit with a funkysock pair and a dark dress shoe.
Okay, we have the basics covered. But what will you wear on your head? We briefly covered the 1990s style – loose, carefree – but that decade is truly back with a vengeance. The bucket hat is back. Try purchasing an Exotic Leaf Hat by Hentsch Man. If you choose a bucket hat that is patterned, it is best to not wear such a loud outfit.
If you are going out and want to seem more reserved, farmer-inspired straw hats are working their way up the runway. These would look best with a dark-coloured suit, and crazy-patterned pocket square.
On your hard working feet, make sure they breathe a bit. As we have stated several times, plastic sandals are in at the moment, but it is okay to veer away from the norm. Alvaro Gonzalez is selling higher end footwear this season. Their big toe binding sandals come in varied colours, such as olive green, black, and navy blue.
If you are traveling, be sure to pack a vintage striped knit cardigan in your overnight bag. These are perfect for long plane rides, freezing air conditioned road trips, and even around the
camp fire. We recommend Brioni or Pringle of Scotland items.
Guys, don’t break the bank with the looks we suggest. Dress on a dime if you have to, and feel comfortable. The summertime is a time for loose ideas and freedom; let your wardrobe express that through and through.