After a long winter, we’ve finally entered al fresco season!
You can now leave the house without wearing at least three layers and it’s still light when 6pm hits. So, it’s time to reintroduce yourself to your warm-weather wardrobe. That means you can shelve your bulky coats and knits and swap them with lightweight shorts, t-shirts and casual summer shirts instead.
While you may be under the impression it’s all short sleeves and loud prints when it comes to the latter, there’s a whole world of summer shirting that goes beyond the stereotype. Though that look works for some, if your style’s more understated, perhaps a vertical stripe, spread-collar neckline or contrast details are more your speed – and these will deliver year-round outfit mileage too.
If you’re looking for inspiration, look no further than menswear’s current muses. You could follow Jeremy Allen White’s lead in a classic striped Oxford, go for an all-over printed style à la Tyler The Creator or even channel Harry Styles in a homespun design by the likes of Bode or Story MFG - embroidery and openwork knits, we’re looking at you.
Whatever tribe you’re following, the key is to make sure the textile is lightweight and breathable so the vibe feels right when the sun’s shining. We’re talking laid-back silhouettes, happy hues and textiles like cotton or linen.
Then there’s the all-important question – does it have to be short-sleeved? The answer is a resounding no. Though bare arms are sometimes suitable, certain summer soirées may call for long sleeves, so it’s best to have a strong selection across the two. Then you’ll be covered for barbecues in your friend’s garden and casual wedding receptions alike – just make sure you’ve got the range of footwear to match.
Shop the best summer shirts for men below
Arket Poplin Shirt
If you’re yet to add a blue striped shirt to your rotation, this is your cue. An entirely versatile staple, it will become one of the hardest working pieces in your wardrobe, whether you wear it open over a t-shirt or simply on its own. The good news? Scandi high street hero Arket has some of the best on the market.
Buy now £67.00, Arket
Story MFG Greetings Logo-Embroidered Tie-Dyed Cotton and Linen-Blend Shirt
One for the conscious shoppers, Story MFG’s collections are created with both the planet and people in mind, from encouraging slow fashion to nurturing age-old techniques.
A bold choice that’s far from garish, this shirt’s artfully tie-dyed with a muted colour palette – and the lightweight linen-cotton blend will serve you well in the heat.
Buy now £340.00, Mr. Porter
Jacquemus La chemise Simon graphic-print relaxed-fit cotton-poplin shirt
If you’re in the market for summer-appropriate menswear, Jacquemus is the label to know. From the colour palette to the painterly graphic prints, the entire collection will make you pine for your next summer holiday – and this shirt’s a case in point.
Buy now £405.00, Selfridges
Cos Lightweight Twill Shirt
Every guy should have an Oxford or two in his wardrobe. Well, why not give your collection a summery update with this Tencel button-up? Not only is it lighter, but it’s also made from renewable wood sources using a process that recycles 99 per cent of all chemicals and water. A win-win.
Buy now £85.00, Cos
Mr P. Striped Knitted Merino Wool Shirt
Though navy wool doesn’t scream ‘summer’, the short sleeve, double-stripe contrast trim and taupe buttons make this shirt perfect for the months ahead. Lift the colour palette by wearing beige or cream trousers and gold jewellery.
Buy now £165.00, Mr. Porter
YMC Mitchum Short Sleeve Shirt
Nothing says holiday like a printed shirt. An ode to Robert Mitchum’s shirting collection, YMC’s workwear-inspired take is ideal for casual summer settings – laid-back BBQs and pub garden get-togethers included.
Buy now £165.00, End Clothing
Bode Moonflower Appliqué Cotton Shirt
The Fifties were definitely on designer Emily Adams Bode’s mind when designing this short-sleeved number. Inspired by a vintage tablecloth from the decade, it’s a bowling-shirt-esque design that could be easily dressed up or down. Why not complete the look with the matching shorts?
Buy now £633.00, MyTheresa
Percival Boxy Clerk Shirt
A menswear label that never misses, Percival’s collections are ideal for those who love classics with a twist, and can even count Paul Mescal, Chris Pine and Andrew Garfield in its impressive fanbase. Cut to a boxy fit from Japanese cotton, this will carry you from the office to sidewalk drinks with ease.
Buy now £149.00, Percival
Reiss Herringbone Cuban Collar Shirt
At a time, Reiss was solely a go-to for formal suiting. Now, the British label’s collection of elevated casualwear is just as impressive. With a Cuban collar, subtle herringbone pattern and super soft finish, this shirt will be your smart casual saviour during the sunny season.
Buy now £110.00, Reiss
J. Lindeberg Florindo Tencel Stripe Shirt
Relaxed fit? Check. Timeless stripe? Check. Lightweight construction? Once again, check! J. Lindeberg’s Florindo shirt is an investment that ticks every summer-appropriate box.
Buy now £140.00, J. Lindeberg
