...and so too can be styling yourself for those long summer days!
It's around May, when the rain finally stops and we catch the occasional glimpse of the sun, when us optimistic Brits begin to bring out the summer clothes. Not to stereotype, but by this stage most of the fashion-conscious women of the country have already planned out their perfect summer outfits for the beach, barbeque etc. leaving them calm, cool and collected and looking fabulous.
Unfortunately, us men often leave it a little too late and end up dusting off those cargo shorts and aviators from last year and hoping for the best.
As you may have noticed I am a little behind the times writing this and it is now well into July. However, it is never too late to give a little guidance! :)
Now, the internet is overflowing with sites giving "Top Ten Mens Do's and Don'ts for Summer" and the like, which all leave me feeling a bit restricted and confused. So instead I am simply going to outline what I think are this summer's hottest trends and styles (and maybe rule out some of the more major fashion disasters!)
Lets start from the top!
Hats
I don't care what anybody says against them, I love Trilbies!
Often dissed by people I know as 'pretentious', I think these stylish hats add to the perfect summer look.
More expensive Trilbies like the one on the left are often made of fabric and can be worn with suits, long coats and other autumn/winter clothing.
However, straw or canvas Trilbies, right, are most definitely a summer style. These can be worn with t-shirts, sweaters or shirts and look great on any trip to the beach. Keep the brim nice and thin and I would advise wearing a patterned trilby with a plain top and vice versa.
Tops
When it comes to the perfect top for summer, I have one piece of advice; wear what you're comfortable in! No one wants to be stuck in a clinging shirt on a balmy evening. For those warmer days, keep it loose and large to avoid overheating
(and unsightly sweat patches!). When shopping for my summer t-shirts/shirts etc. I tend to go for one size larger than I usually would.
The nautical look, which emerged late 2009, has withstood the test of time and has had a big impact on this summers hottest looks. Take this horizontal stripe t-shirt below, which will look great with most bottoms, particularly skinny jeans. Another great style around at the moment is the notch-neck t-shirt which opens the neck up brilliantly without showing too much chest hair!
For summer layering, I love the shirt over t-shirt or vest look. This idea has been around for many a summer yet it never gets old. Either light denim or cotton will provide a great summer style for day or night.
Bottoms
Shorts: essential summer wear. However be careful, it can be very easy to fall into old start-of-summer routines.
Donate those cargo shorts to goodwill (who needs that many pockets anyway?).
The best shorts, in my opinion at least, are just above or graze the knee. Patterned shorts look great, whether a smart pinstripe or casual check, you can't go wrong. As for colours, I would stick to pastel shades for a chilled vibe.
The one exception to the 'knee guide' is jean shorts, which have definitely made a comeback this year. These generally look good at any length, though avoid going too short!
Another trend I absolutely love this summer is chinos! These trendy trousers provide a great substitute to denim which will keep you cool while looking fab. Make sure you get a well fitting pair and don't be afraid to turn up those cuffs! My personal favourites are those in mustard or caramel colour.
Shoes
By far my favourite summer shoe is the espadrille. Perfect with shorts or upturned chinos, they give off an unmistakably relaxed feel for any day trips you may be making over the next few
weeks. No wonder, considering how comfortable they are, they're practically slippers! Yet far more stylish ;). A navy pair, left, would look brilliant with cream coloured shorts.
I also really like the boat shoe, a look I once associated with middle-aged men. Just shows you should never rule anything out! These too, like espadrilles, will look great when you show a bit of ankle.
Neither style your thing? Then go for the good old summer classic, the plimsole.
A lot of fashion advice websites for men recommend steering clear of wearing flip-flops in public. I do not completely agree with this advice, as I feel they can really add to that chilled summer look most of us go for. However, a nice substitute to flip-flops are sandals, especially those with a criss-cross pattern over the top.
and finally...
Sunglasses
Aviator sunglasses appeared on the popular circuit about three summers ago, and it appears that they are here to stay!
However I think there are a whole variety of frankly more exciting and stylish pairs on the market to choose from. If you like a simple shade, I would recommend the navigator. Similar to the aviator in frame but with a squarer lens, very nice.
My chosen pair for this summer however are the clubman, to the right. A great shape and a nice 50s vibe, especially in tortoise!
And, as goes for every summer, avoid shutter shades at every cost.
The combined look...
These are just some of my favourite examples of simple summer style...
And thats it for my summer style guide 2010! I will, however, keep updating if I find a particular look or trend that I just can't help sharing with you guys. And of course, please feel free to give feedback or tips :)
Talk soon
