We’re right smack bang in the middle the holiday season, with most people getting ready to hop on a plane for two weeks of escapism. If you’re one of those lucky ones make sure you leave the country prepared for multiple possibilities from sun lounging to city slicking. We’ve pulled 5 key pieces which we don’t believe any gent should leave without. It’s basically the top 5 things you need after suncream, a beach towel and a straw for your cocktail.
We all struggle in the heat and it can seem difficult staying stylish when you’re thinking an ice bath is the only solution. As Brits we’re just not built to cope in hot conditions at home, but as soon as you hit the tarmac on some Mediterranean island, it all seems more bearable. Style can be adapted for all conditions, swap out the suit and brogues for a nice pair of tailored shorts and woven loafers, and you’ve got your holiday look. The aim is always to stay cool, look cool and come home to an office full of envious glares.
1. TAILORED SWIM SHORTS
Time spent in either a pool or the sea is pretty much a given. So instead of sticking to the traditional swim shorts – which look a bit out of place anywhere except for poolside – why not try a tailored pair? They look great on, a flattering fit that transfers easily from beachwear to a spot of shopping. They’re also perfect for anyone who’s struggling from suit withdrawal. Orlebar Brown is the master of the tailored swim short creating a whole brand around this idea, but as a tailoring veteran Paul Smith also knows a thing or too.
2. THE LINEN SHIRT
There’s nothing worse than wearing a synthetic material that retains all of your body’s heat in the sun. Always opt for natural fibres in the summer, linen in all it’s lightweight and breathable glory, is the ultimate choice. A white linen shirt is a bit of an old school classic, like a hollywood great it’s stayed in fashion and will remain iconic because of it’s timeless appeal. You can throw it on post swim or wear it with jeans in an evening, it’s a piece that is definitely worth investing in. OB once again delivers with their Resort collection, but Ralph Lauren are no stranger to this look with their own version.
3. STATEMENT SUNGLASSES
You’d hope that the sun will be shining throughout your holiday, so a good pair of UV protected sunnies are an essential thing to pack. But keeping your eyes sheltered from harmful rays doesn’t have to be harmful to your appearance. Monokel handcraft statement sunglasses that are fitted with 100% UV protective Carl Zeiss Vision lenses, so looking good isn’t an issue.
4. SLIP ON SHOES
No one wants to wear chunky closed in shoes in the heat, let your feet breathe in a pair of slip on shoes. The woven or perforated designs are ideal, but if not a set of Swims rubber loafers are always a good waterproof alternative. For the evenings, or just a smarter occasion, leather Bass Weejun loafers are always our first and only pick.
5. PLAIN T-SHIRTS
You can’t go wrong with a plain cotton t-shirt. They always come in handy and usually get their fair share of wear out there. We’re opting for plain because it offers more versatility when you’ve got a limited wardrobe – always a massive pain when you realise that those shorts don’t look right with any of your tops. Whether it’s crew neck or V is down to your personal preference, both will be useful to cover up in the sun or throw on for a walk.
