The best men’s summer wardrobe essentials are dead simple. Whereas loud statement pieces and overly niche garments are usually only appropriate for a few settings, minimally-branded, well-made products should be your go-to all summer long. So before the temperature gets too hot, make sure you’re stocked up on sunglasses, caps, tees, trunks and sandals — everything else is secondary. With a strong rotation of essentials, you’ll be set for whatever the warmer months have in store.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are necessary for the summer to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and shouldn’t be an afterthought. It’s worth investing in a quality pair of shades, as you will likely wear them every day.
RB3025 Original Aviator by Ray-Ban $168
0PO3158S by Persol $300
Elias by Oliver Peoples $380
Caps
No matter where you live, the baseball cap is a smart accessory for everyday sun protection. For the most versatile options, look for neutral colors and minimal branding.
Naturalist Canvas Cap by The North Face $35
Helags Cap by Fjällräven $35
Bird Cap by Arc’Teryx $35
Swim Trunks
Brands are now offering the ideal short for summer: a hybrid between a swim trunk and a traditional short.The style utilizes fabrics appropriate for the water but features design cues lifted from traditional shorts like fly-front zippers, button or snap closures and side pockets.
Class V Belted Guide Trunk by The North Face $45
Calder Trunks by Onia $130
Bulldog Sport Swim Shorts by Orlebar Brown $159
T-Shirts
An essential part of any warm-weather wardrobe, the T-shirt finds its roots in the athletic-wear of the 20th century. For the most versatile options, invest in solid colors without obtuse branding.
Washed Everyday Pocket Tee by Vans $26
The Keeper by Alternative Apparel $28
Cashmere Short Sleeve T-Shirt by Todd Snyder $228
Sandals
Sandals are the unofficial shoes of summer. They’re easy to pack and quick to slip on, and they protect against hot sand. They’re casual and comfortable — sometimes that’s all you need.
Top Flip Flops by Havaianas $18
Z/Cloud by Chaco $110
Arizona by Birkenstock $125
