Written by Ben Chuang

As the temperature begins to rise and the days get longer, it's time to refresh your wardrobe and embrace the latest trends in men's summer fashion.

This season promises an exciting blend of classic styles and innovative designs, creating a sartorial playground for men looking to stay cool and stylish under the sun.

Whether you're lounging by the beach, heading to a rooftop bar, or attending a summer wedding, this post will be your ultimate guide to what's in and what's out in the world of men's summer fashion.

From vibrant colors and patterns to breathable fabrics and tailored shorts, this year's summer fashion trends for men offer endless possibilities to express your individuality while staying comfortable in the heat.

So, get ready to explore the must-have items, styling tips, and essential accessories that will make this summer your most stylish one yet. Don't forget to check out our guides to resort casual attire, springtime fashion and how to dress more masculine.

Light and Breathable Fabric: Summertime Outfits Mens Edition

You may be wondering what is the coolest possible material to wear in hot weather. According to scientists, in the future, we may be wearing synthetic fabrics that cool down the body with infrared radiation technology. But until that technology becomes readily available, here are some of our favorite fabrics for summer clothing:

Cotton Fabric:

Cotton is a classic summer fabric. It's lightweight, breathable, and absorbs moisture, making it a great choice for t-shirts, button-up shirts, shorts, and lightweight pants. Look for options like seersucker and chambray for added texture and style.

Linen Fabric:

Linen is known for its breathability and natural texture. It's a perfect choice for summer suits, shirts, and lightweight trousers. While it can wrinkle easily, this is part of its charm and gives a relaxed, casual look.

Chambray Fabric:

Chambray is a cotton fabric that resembles denim but is lighter and more breathable. It's a versatile choice for shirts, shorts, and light jackets.

Seersucker Fabric:

Seersucker is a puckered cotton fabric that promotes air circulation, making it an excellent choice for summer suits, blazers, and shirts. It's known for its distinctive texture.

Lightweight Wool:

If you need to wear a suit in the summer, opt for lightweight wool, such as tropical wool. It's breathable and more comfortable than heavier wool fabrics.

When selecting clothing for summer, also consider the weave and color of the fabric. Opt for lighter colors like white, pastels, and earth tones to reflect sunlight and keep you cooler.

Additionally, choose garments with looser cuts to allow for better air circulation. The right choice of fabric and style will help you stay comfortable and stylish during the hot summer months.

Stylish Shirts this Summer

Linen Shirts:

These are the go-to summer shirts. They're not only comfortable but also exude a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. Linen shirts are highly breathable and cool but wrinkle easily, creating a worn look that some might find pleasing.

Cotton Button-Down Shirts:

A light button-down dress shirt made of 100% cotton helps keep you cool during the hot summer months. You may want to wear gingham or other patterns for more casual occasions while reserving unpatterned and light-striped shirts for more formal occasions.

Polo Shirts:

Timeless and versatile, polo shirts can be dressed up or down, making polos a great business casual option and a must-have in your collection. A polo shirt with chinos and boat shoes is perfect for a summertime picnic at the park.

Slim Fit T-Shirts:

A simple T-shirt is great for the summer months and exudes a classic style. Stay cool and stylish with a plain white v-neck or olive crew neck t-shirt by Nimble Made.

Bottoms and Shorts

Men have a range of options when it comes to choosing bottoms and shorts for summer, and the choice largely depends on personal style and the occasion. Here are some popular options for men's summer bottoms and shorts:

Chino Shorts:

Chino shorts are a versatile and timeless choice. They are typically made from light cotton twill and come in various colors. They can be dressed up or down and are suitable for both casual and slightly more formal settings.

Bermuda Shorts:

Bermuda shorts are longer than traditional shorts, typically ending just above the knee. They offer a slightly more refined and conservative look, making them suitable for dressier casual occasions.

Denim Shorts:

Denim shorts offer a rugged and casual appearance. They are a great choice for a summer look and work well with a simple t-shirt, although you might want to avoid wearing jeans until fall or winter.

Swim Trunks:

For trips to the beach or pool, wearing swim trunks is a necessity. They come in various lengths and styles, from classic board shorts to more tailored options.

Drawstring Shorts:

Drawstring shorts are typically made from light fabrics and feature an adjustable drawstring waist. They look great with a simple tee and offer a relaxed and comfortable fit, making them great for relaxed summer days.

Seersucker Shorts:

Seersucker shorts are made from a puckered cotton fabric that promotes airflow, making them an excellent choice for summer. They have a unique, textured appearance.

When choosing shorts for summer, consider the occasion and your personal style. It's a good idea to have a variety of options, from sporty to semi-formal, to ensure you're prepared for various summer activities and events.

Remember to pay attention to the fit, as well as the fabric and color to stay comfortable and stylish in the heat.

Matching Shoes

When it comes to summer outfits for men, it's essential to choose the right footwear that not only keeps you comfortable in warm weather but also complements your style. Here are examples that are ideal for your summer style:

Canvas Sneakers: Canvas sneakers, such as Converse Chuck Taylors or Vans, are a timeless choice for a sporty look. They are light and breathable, making them perfect for summer.

Espadrilles: Espadrilles are great summer shoes with comfortable jute soles and a canvas or fabric upper. They are great for a relaxed, beachy style and pair well with shorts and light summer outfits.

Boat Shoes: Boat shoes, like Sperry Top-Siders, are designed for warm-weather wear. They are typically made from leather or canvas and have a non-slip sole, making them an excellent choice for summer days and evenings.

Sandals: Sandals are the ultimate warm-weather footwear. Whether you prefer flip-flops, slides, or strappy sandals, they offer maximum breathability and are perfect for the beach or pool. Choose quality leather or comfortable, ergonomic designs for better support.

Loafers: Loafers can be a versatile summer shoe option. Look for loafers made of light materials like suede or unlined leather. They work well with semi-formal summer outfits.

Slip-On Sneakers: Slip-on sneakers, like the Vans slip-ons, are easy to put on and take off and offer a laid-back summer look. They are available in a variety of colors and patterns.

When choosing summer footwear, keep in mind the activities you'll be engaging in and the dress code of the occasion.

It's a good idea to have a variety of options to suit different summer outfits and situations, whether you're going for a smart or sporty look.

Accessories for Men's Summer Fashion

Accessories can add a fun and stylish touch to men's summer fashion while also serving practical purposes. Here are some suggestions to improve your accessory game that work well for the summer season:

Sunglasses: A good pair of sunglasses not only protects your eyes from the sun but also adds a cool, stylish element to your summer look. Opt for frames that complement your face shape and offer UV protection.

 

Hats: A hat can provide shade, keeping you cooler in the summer sun. Hat types like straw Panama hats, baseball caps, dad hats, bucket hats, or one of these best cowboy hats are popular choices. They also add a touch of character to your outfit. Learn more about hat sizes.

Watches: A well-chosen wristwatch can be a functional and fashionable accessory. Go for a light, water-resistant watch with an appropriate strap, such as nylon or rubber.

Bracelets: Beaded bracelets or leather bands can be a subtle addition to your wrist that adds a touch of personality to your outfit. Just don't overdo it; a few understated bracelets go a long way.

Belts: A stylish belt can complete your outfit and keep your shorts or pants in place. Woven, fabric, or braided belts can add a relaxed feel to your attire. Read more about how to match your belt with shoes and the different types of belts.

Ties and Pocket Squares: If you're attending a more formal event in the summer, light ties and pocket squares in cotton or linen can add a polished touch to your suit. The addition of a simple tie can elevate the formality of your outfit, whether you're dressing for a wedding or a normal day at the office. Check out our collection to find the right tie for any event.

Cufflinks: For more formal events, cufflinks can be a subtle way to express your style and sophistication. If the event calls for a suit and tie, why not complement the outfit with some nice cufflinks?

Fragrance: A light, fresh fragrance can be worn as a subtle accessory that leaves a lasting impression. Opt for citrusy or aquatic scents that are well-suited to warm weather.

Remember that the key to improving your accessory game in the summer is to keep it functional and appropriate for the event. Don't overdo it; a few carefully chosen accessories can enhance your look without overwhelming it.

Do's and Don'ts for Summer Fashion

Finally, here are some general guidelines for what to do and what to avoid when dressing up for events in the summer.

In general, do:

Wear Light Fabrics: Do opt for light, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and seersucker. They keep you comfortable in the heat.

Choose Light Colors: Do go for light colors such as white, pastels, and soft earth tones. They reflect sunlight and help keep you cooler. Avoid dark jeans if possible.

Accessorize Smartly: Do use accessories like sunglasses, hats, and wristwear to add style and functionality to your outfits.

Opt for Breathable Footwear: Do wear sandals, espadrilles, or light sneakers to keep your feet comfortable. Moisture-wicking socks are a plus.

Avoid These Faux Pas:

Avoid Heavy Fabrics: Don't wear heavy materials like wool or thick denim. They can cause discomfort and overheating.

Dark Colors in Full Sun: Don't opt for dark colors when you're in direct sunlight. They can absorb heat and make you feel warmer. Leave your jeans at home for fall or winter.

Overload on Accessories: Don't over-accessorize. Keep it simple and select a few well-chosen accessories to enhance your look.

Inappropriate Footwear: Don't wear heavy or overly formal footwear like leather boots in sweltering weather. They can make your feet feel stuffy.

Ill-Fitting Clothing: Don't wear clothing that's too tight or restrictive. Loose-fitting, comfortable attire is ideal for hot weather.

Neglect Sun Protection: Don't forget to wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun's harmful rays.

By following these do's and don'ts, you can stay both stylish and comfortable during the warmer months. Remember that adaptability to the dress code and comfort in the heat are key considerations when planning your wardrobe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential clothing items for a stylish summer wardrobe?

Building a stylish summer wardrobe for men includes essential items like a light cotton t-shirt and button-up shirts in versatile colors, breathable chino shorts, comfortable sneakers or espadrilles, sunglasses, and a classic swim trunk for beach outings.

If you're looking to expand your work shirts for the summer, we have a list of the top shirts to pick from.

Linen shirts and light blazers can be added for more formal events. These pieces offer a comfortable, relaxed, and stylish foundation for your summer look.

How can I stay comfortable in hot weather without sacrificing style?

Staying comfortable in the summer while maintaining style involves choosing breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and seersucker. Opt for loose-fitting clothing to allow air circulation and choose light colors that reflect sunlight.

Don't forget to accessorize with a stylish hat for shade and sunglasses for eye protection. Moisture-wicking underwear and socks are also essential, as they help manage sweat. Lastly, keep hydrated and apply sunscreen to protect your skin.

Can you offer tips for dressing appropriately for summer events or parties?

Dressing appropriately for summer events starts with understanding the dress code. For informal gatherings, a well-fitted polo shirt and tailored shorts can strike a balance between comfort and style.

For more formal events, light suits in materials like cotton or linen are a great choice. Don't forget breathable loafers and, if needed, a light tie or pocket square to complete the look.

Always check the specific dress code and aim to be slightly overdressed rather than underdressed for important events.