Men's Summer Styles (My list of Must-Have's for Men)

Men's Summer Styles

Summer is all about spending time in the sun, relaxing with friends, cutting out of work early to get to the BBQ, volleyball in the sand (even if you don't live by the beach), and above all, FUN with those you love. While I can write pages and pages on women's summer style (and believe me, I have and will - as it is my FAVORITE season), I thought I would dedicate a blog to men's summer style.

Summer is one of those times where you want to look great, but you don't want to put a lot of effort into it (and more importantly, you don't want to LOOK like you put a lot of effort into it). Just having a few of the right pieces can make having good style a no-brainer! 

Here is a list of some of my summer "must-haves" for men as well as some pieces that I love. Also, here are some great examples of pieces that you can find at places such as Nordstrom, Target, Nordstrom Rack, and other local retailers for prices that won't break the bank (or take away from your summer "fun" fund). 

1 - A couple of pairs of shorts in navy, camel-color, and a few others. For guys who are on the slimmer side, shorts that have big cargo pockets can help to add some "bulk" your look, giving you a a more "filled-out" appearance. For the larger gentleman, shorts that have smaller pockets are generally a better choice.


2- A great pair of sandals. It seems obvious but having a great pair of sandals that you can throw on for almost any event is essential. While I love black flip-flops, I recommend a pair in a more neutral color - these will go with almost all of your outfits and keep from making your feet look bigger (heavy looking shoes make your bottom half look heavy).

3 - Good quality, non-graphic tees. Yes, you loved your "Corona" tees back in college and I am sure that you are proud of your Greek frat tees - but those tees make you look like you are still trying to live back in college. I am not opposed to some detailing - but try and keep it a little more sophisticated than booze and fraternity themes.

4 - Light-weight button downs in fun colors - polos work too. If you brave enough, try a light purple pinstripe or even a pink. Not willing to go that "feminine?" Try something in a yellow, a green, or even a light blue. COLORS are in and will make you look great. Patterns like plaid, pinstripe, and gingham look great patterns for style that are easy and will make you look on trend.

5 - Accessories - I understand not wanting to pile on the jewelry but a nice watch (metal is still my first choice although a sporty watch will look very appropriate for most summer occasions) is a must. Also, try a leather banded bracelet or an simple (yet elegant) silver ring. You don't have to look like you borrowed your girlfriend's jewelry in order to have some accessories that add immensely to your look.

6 - A nice, well-fit pair of jeans. I still maintain that every man needs a pair of dark jeans that can be dressed up or down. For summer, add to that list a pair of medium wash jeans. Still, try and stay away from too much distressing or details as that will completely take away from the point of having "simple" or "clean-cut" denim.

7 - A good bathing suit/board shorts. I love flowers, colors, patterns, etc. Just make sure they aren't so long that they overwhelm you (below the knee gets a little long for my taste). At the same time, it is Colorado, not Europe so keep the short shorts for your girlfriend. Don't wear a swimsuit around unless you are going to be in a setting where there is potential for swimming (or at least some sand volleyball).

8 - A nice pair of sunglasses. I am a fan of the cheapies - the ones that can get lost, stepped on, or jacked by your best friend and you won't miss them, but I think a nice pair of sunglasses (these examples are Ray-Bans and Deisel) are a must-have summer item for any guy who wants to take their look up a notch.

9 - A nice shoe to wear in place of flip flops when the occasion calls. While there aren't too many events where it is inappropriate to wear flip flips, there are going to be times where a nicer shoe (or a shoe in general) is in order. A boat shoe is the perfect answer. Toms are also a great option. I love the burlap Toms for both men and women!

10 - A soft, neutral-colored summer sweater or pull-over. This will be great for evenings or cooler days. Keep it lightweight so it can mix and match with the rest of your summer attire. I recommend something in a camel-colored brown, black, navy, rust or even an off-white.

11 - A nice pair of non-denim pants in a softer color (think khaki, brown or gray) - try and stay away a from tapered leg as they won't do any body type many favors!

Happy summer and happy styling! 

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com