9 summer wardrobe essentials for men

Summer in Australia is all about holidays, hot days by the water, and long evenings outdoors. To enjoy it fully, you need clothes that feel light and breathable in the heat, yet still look stylish. In this article, we’ll walk through the key pieces that make a summer wardrobe both versatile and timeless.

1. Linen shirts

A linen shirt is the piece you can always rely on when the weather heats up, keeping you cool while still looking stylish. Its versatility means you can wear it to the beach during the day and to a smart-casual dinner in the evening, making it a true summer staple. There are also different variations you can wear depending on the occasion, with button-down styles dressing it up, grandad collars creating a relaxed look, and short-sleeved versions made for the hottest days. The look also comes together with the right fit. This might be a slim torso, neatly finished sleeves, or a collar that sits flat. Colourwise, you’ll want to wear something light so it doesn’t absorb as much heat.

2. Chino shorts

Chino shorts can be the base for a number of great outfits. They strike the right balance between casual comfort and style, making them as suitable for a relaxed weekend as they are for a smart-casual evening at a beach bar. Fit is what keeps them looking purposeful, not sloppy. Hemming them right above where your knee is creates a modern shape, while a slight taper through the leg adds structure without making them feel restrictive. Classic shades like navy, khaki, or stone are the easiest to wear and pair with other items in your wardrobe.

3. Lightweight summer suit

A lightweight suit is a must-have if you will be attending summer weddings, events, or have formal days at work. Choosing a cotton or linen-blend fabric keeps the same structure we love in our suits, while still allowing it to breathe in the heat. This is also where the tailoring can make all the difference. A jacket that sits flat at the shoulders, trousers with a clean break at the shoe, and a waist adjusted for comfort will keep you feeling comfortable. All these small details stop a summer suit from appearing boxy and feeling hot. For a seasonal update, try lighter tones such as beige, pale grey, or soft blue to bring a summer freshness to the outfit. Paired with a crisp shirt and polished shoes, it is a look that looks both sharp and summer-appropriate.

4. Polo shirts

A polo shirt is a great option when you’re not quite ready to bring out your suit, but want to look a little more put together. It has the ease of throwing on a t-shirt, but with the added structure of a collar. Fit is what keeps a polo looking sharp. Too much fabric in the torso or sleeves that sit wide on the arm can make it feel messy. Getting your favourite polos tailored for your body will make them look more intentional. When it comes to solid colours, those in your colour season will be the most flattering and versatile.

5. Breathable cotton trousers

Cotton trousers are the perfect alternative to jeans in the warmer months if you want to wear long pants. Lighter fabrics like cotton give structure without the weight, making them ideal for long summer days. Cotton is also more breathable than synthetic fibres like polyester, helping to draw sweat away from the skin and keep you comfortable. A great pair of trousers often comes through tailoring. Off the shelf, they will be made in a generic shape, which might not work best with your body. You can get a gentle taper through the leg to create a smooth line, while adjusting the length to sit just above the shoe. This keeps the hem looking modern. They’re also incredibly versatile when it comes to styling. Pair them with loafers for a polish, derbies for the office, or clean white sneakers for a more relaxed look.

6. Short-sleeved button-up shirts

A short-sleeved button-up is one of the easiest ways to look put-together in the heat without feeling overdressed. It’s more polished than a t-shirt but still light enough to stay comfortable, making it ideal for long summer days that move from lunch to late evenings. To keep the look sharp, we recommend that the sleeves be cut across the mid-bicep and the shirt fit cleanly without buttons pulling open. Again, going for fabrics like cotton or linen not only means the fabric can breathe, but they also hold their shape. For extra style points, roll the sleeves once to show a tailored edge, leave the top button open for airflow, and experiment with subtle prints or pastel tones to bring in a hint of summer colour without overwhelming the outfit.

7. Lightweight jackets

You’ll want a lightweight jacket for cooler evenings or breezy nights that you can throw over any outfit. Options like unstructured blazers, linen overshirts, or a lightweight chore jacket add style without holding onto heat. The fit can also go a long way in making a casual jacket look more formal. Adjusting the shoulders to sit cleanly and finishing the sleeves just above the wrist creates a sharper line. Choosing colours that echo your summer staples, such as navy, beige, or soft grey, makes layering simple and ensures the jacket works across different outfits.

8. Loafers and minimal sneakers

Loafers and minimal sneakers are two of the most versatile footwear choices for summer, giving you the choice of formality or comfort. A well-made loafer in leather or suede works perfectly for warm evenings, while a crisp white sneaker adds a clean edge to casual looks. In the heat, no-sock styling or breathable linings keep things comfortable without sacrificing appearance. You can also hem your trousers to sit neatly above low-profile shoes, ensuring that the whole outfit looks put together.

9. Summer accessories

Accessories complete a summer outfit and add personality without extra weight. Sunglasses, belts, and hats not only serve a purpose, but also tie your look together. Proportion is key when choosing the right pieces. Sunglasses should suit your face shape, while hats need to balance with your frame. Like we mentioned before, if you want to wear these items across your wardrobe, opt for neutral or earthy tones as they work best for versatility.

Finishing your summer look

A sharp summer wardrobe comes down to investing in pieces that feel light, comfortable, and versatile. Breathable fabrics like linen and cotton will keep you cool, but it’s the fit that makes them look that extra level of polish. From slimming a linen shirt through the torso to adjusting the break of your summer trousers, tailoring ensures every item looks made for you. For expert alterations, visit your local LookSmart store. Our team can tailor your summer essentials so they fit well and feel effortless to wear.

FAQs

What is the difference between casual shirts and short-sleeve shirts?

Casual shirts can come in both long and short sleeve styles, while a short sleeve shirt is specifically designed for warmer weather. Both can be tailored to improve fit.

How should swim shorts fit?

Swim shorts should sit comfortably at the waist and finish above the knee for ease of movement. A tailored hem helps them look sharper out of the water.

Can quarter zips be altered?

Yes, a quarter zip pullover can often be adjusted through the body or sleeves to create a cleaner fit without losing comfort.

What is a boxy tee and can it be tailored?

A boxy tee has a wider, more relaxed cut. It can be taken in at the sides or sleeves for a slimmer look if preferred.

Any Questions?