Summer can be a challenging time of year to dress, especially for men. The already limited variety of menswear on offer shrinks, while the room for error grows. Summer dressing involves colour and (gasp) skin, which can throw even the most experienced dressers into disarray.
Fear not, men of Ireland, we’ve put together some simple guidelines for those of you feeling seasonally challenged.
First and foremost, stick with the basics. Think Marlon Brando in A Streetcar Named Desire: a plain fitted T, jeans, a good leather belt and a bomber jacket. If all else fails, this combination will work.
THE T-SHIRT
Do: You can't go wrong with plain T-shirts. And nautical, striped Ts are a versatile and stylish option.
Don't: When it comes to V-necks, four fingers below the collar bone is a no-no for 90 per cent of the population. Really don't: Vests. Ditch them all.
Nautical T, €12.99, H&M
THE SHIRT
Do: A fitted, button-down shirt is always a winner. Blue flatters most skin tones, and linen is a beautiful summer fabric, making this J Lindeberg shirt a safe bet. Light denim shirts are similarly dapper and one of this season's trends that is worth following.
Don't: Short-sleeved shirts are an anomaly. Just roll up your long sleeves or wear a T-shirt.
Blue shirt, €156, J Lindeberg at Harvey Nichols
THE SWEATER
Do: The sweater leaves room to introduce more colour into your wardrobe – it is summer after all. Cashmere may seem excessive, but there's nothing nicer against your skin on a chilly summer evening. M&S does a great range. If you really want to go for it, this Aztec crew-neck from H&M is just the right side of "out there".
Don't: Bulk up. Avoid knits that are too thick; they'll make you appear bulky and are only meant for winter.
Aztec sweater, €34.99, H&M
THE JACKET
Do: Bomber jackets are a summer wardrobe staple: understated and warm, yet light enough for warm days. For those of you who are a little more adventurous, a denim jacket such as this one from Nowhere will mark you out from the crowd. On dressed-up occasions, a suit jacket in lighter fabrics such as seersucker or linen will do the trick.
Don't: Go large. Only wear large lapels if you mean it, and do up all your buttons or none at all.
Raw denim jacket, €220, APC at Nowhere, 64 Aungier Street. anowhereman.com
THE JEANS
Do: Jeans are always a safe bet, with a straight or slightly tapered leg being the most flattering. Dark denim will provide a clean, modern look. For a lighter take, roll up the ends and show off a bit of ankle. Levi's are the go-to in this category.
Don't: Please remember, skinny jeans are not for everyone.
Norse Projects tapered denim, €170, Indigo and Cloth
THE SHORTS
Do: If the weather really heats up, shorts in denim or cotton, such as these navy Oxford tailored shorts from Topman, can look fantastic.
Don't: Please ensure your shorts end just on the knee; shorter and you're Magnum PI, longer and you're a man-child. Also, check there is about an inch gap between the fabric and your skin; without that, there's danger of serious sausage leg.
Navy Oxford tailored shorts, €40, Topman
THE SHOE
Do: The penny loafer is a classic when you need to dress it up a bit. Massimo Dutti does a great selection. They can be worn with or without socks and go with almost anything. Vans are another summer go-to.
Don't: There's no need to live with sweaty slidy foot syndrome; get yourself some ankle socks.
Really don't: Keep flip-flops strictly to the beach and the pool.
LITTLE EXTRAS
Sun cream: Come on, lads, wear it.
Sunglasses: Stick to the classic Ray-Ban shape.
Man jewellery: Less is more but don't be afraid of a leather bracelet or two.
Bag: Leather satchels age wonderfully and mark you out out as a taste-maker.
Swimwear: Go all out here, as colourful or patterned as you like. Avoid speedos.
Hats: This is dangerous territory. If you're under 25, try a snapback. If you're over 25, stick to a beanie if you must put something on your head. You may only wear a trilby if you are a jazz artist. No bucket hats for anyone – ever.
