6 Must-Have Fashion Staples Every Man Needs for Summer
Every man deserves a great-looking summer wardrobe. To have the cool and comfy clothes that you love at the ready, start with summer fashion staples that are high quality and will last for years to come. Here are some ideas to get you going.
White T-Shirt
The white men’s T-shirt is a summer staple that will go with almost every other garment you own. If it’s been a while since you have been T-shirt shopping, make sure to check your current measurements to get a size that will be as comfy as it is flattering. Cotton is a favorite for summer because it breathes so nicely and feels great against your skin. Just don’t wear it for heavy exercise as it won’t wick away perspiration.
When you find the perfect white T-shirt, always buy two. You want your white shirts to stay pristine, and real life sometimes gets in the way of that. With a spare in the closet, when you run into that tomato sauce stain that just won’t come out, relegate that one to activities like working in the garage and pull out the fresh one for that coffee date or casual dinner.
Jeans
Every guy needs the perfect pair of men’s jeans. For a more polished look, stick to darker washes, although medium washes are versatile (especially in summer). If you already have a great pair of blue jeans in your closet, consider adding a pair of white jeans for summer. They’ll be a wardrobe staple that you can wear for years to come.
When shopping for jeans, as long as you know your waist and inseam measurements and what color of jeans you are looking for, you have the basics. Make sure to try them on in front of a full-length mirror and get a 360-degree view. The right jeans should be comfortable, not tight or baggy anywhere. When you find a brand, style, and size that works especially well, jot it down in your smartphone for safekeeping. When they start looking a little worn or if you just love them so much you want another pair, shopping will be that much easier.
Button-Down Shirt
A white men’s button-down shirt is a classic, especially for summer. If you already have a pristine-looking white button-down shirt in your closet, consider adding one in a pastel or bright color for a change of pace. Summer is a colorful season, so why not enjoy it?
Long-sleeved button-down shirts are the most versatile because they are a bit more formal than their short-sleeved brothers. You can always roll the sleeves up to the elbows for a cooler option. With that said, if you already have a couple of long-sleeved button-downs in your closet, a short-sleeved button-down is great to have on hand during the summer months.
Chinos
A pair of men’s chinos just can’t be beaten for a summer wardrobe staple. Choose khaki or another light color for summer (stone or gray is nice), and you have a pair of pants that will go with almost any top from your favorite polo shirt to that white button-down to a T-shirt.
The great part about wardrobe staples is that they just don’t go out of style. This makes buying quality garments even more affordable and putting together outfits as easy as grabbing a top and a pair of pants from your closet.
Shorts
It wouldn’t be summer without shorts! So, make sure that you add at least one new pair of men’s shorts that fit perfectly in a neutral color to your summer wardrobe. Shorts are so versatile in the summer that you can dress them up or down. You can wear them to the beach, running errands, or out for lunch or even a casual dinner.
Solid-colored shorts are your safest bet. Plaid is nice, but you must be a bit more careful about what garments you pair with it. If you only buy one new pair of shorts this summer, make them a comfy pair in khaki or stone for maximum versatility and to keep the summer vibe. Choose a length that will keep you comfy—just above the knee is always a classic.
Loafers
When we think of summer footwear, we often think of sandals (which are always good to have!), but don’t overlook the versatility of a great pair of leather loafers. Summer tends to be more casual than other months, and the right pair of loafers can dress up almost any pants, from chinos to jeans to your favorite shorts. A nice pair of men’s shoes and a men’s belt will take you from casual to casual and polished, while not sacrificing comfort along the way.
With the right men’s fashion staples, you’ll be looking and feeling great this summer!