It’s summertime and it’s hot!

Not so easy to pull off a cool vibe, but for some reason, men are really good at this. Ever wonder what their secret is?  Me too!

So, two things I’ve figured out about men’s style:

1.  It’s not that complicated…
2. …and not having so many options makes it less stressful when putting together an outfit.  

So let’s start with a summer basic for the guys…shorts.  I have to admit that I’m actually jealous that men at any age and size can wear shorts…look great and don’t have to worry about how their legs look.  Not fair….right?  There are so many options to look at on our Pinterest board. For a laid back look, be sure to check out all the options from Polyvore. Men’s shorts can go casual with an untucked t-shirt or a little preppy with a button -down shirt tucked in.  Either way, will give your guy a cool-dude edge!

For a dressier summer look for parties and weddings, linen-blend slacks and jackets are hard to beat. They add a cool and crisp look to a man’s summer ensemble.  But why not consider bold color for a summertime soiree….like a pair of green slacks, blue striped shirt, blue jacket and a plaid tie.  Or for the groom and his groomsmen, a blue gingham checked jacket worn with a hot pink striped tie, and white slacks. Really guys….how bold will you go?

Okay, I admit your guy has to be a clothes horse or have a lot of self-confidence to wear really bold colors. So, let’s talk about a more conservative summer look.  You can’t go wrong with a navy blazer, light khaki slacks, and a blue shirt.  And possibly consider a pair of white or light pink slacks.  Ties are optional, but do add a pocket square.  A light tan linen-blend blazer looks great with navy slacks or jeans.  Wear it with a light blue chambray shirt, add a pocket square and push your shirt and coat sleeves up to give yourself a cool and comfy style! And ladies, don’t forget to tell him how amazing he looks!

 Socks or no socks?  Yep, that’s the question!  For summertime, no socks with shorts is the rule. Though, be sure to purchase sock liners at DSW.  Trust me, they will keep your guy comfortable and will keep him from ruining his shoes.  With light summer suits and slacks, the no sock look is perfectly acceptable…but not for church or with professional business attire.  That being said, there are so many fun socks options in stripes and prints.  Again, these are to be worn with slacks and jeans but not shorts.  

The best shoes for a man’s summer look are boat shoes and sneakers.  The main thing is you will want to keep them clean.  Be sure to take a look at the Jason Markk sneaker cleaner, exclusive at J. Crew on our Pinterest board.  The starter kit will cover their basic sneaker cleaning needs and provides all the essential tools for keeping your guy’s kicks fresh.  Is your man a multi-tasker?  If he is, be sure to show him all the shoe lacing options on our board.  It not only will give him something to do while watching a Ranger’s game on TV, but it will teach him a whole new skill! Don’t you just love a multi-tasking man?  

So, what’s left?  Accessories….of course!  From sunshades, watches, hats to belts, men have almost as many accessory options as women do.  Okay, I have to admit I’m obsessed with the men’s Timex watch from J. Crew because you can switch out with colorful bands.  So fun and keeps on ticking!  Is your guy into Fedoras and Panama hats? Then be sure to look at the choices from Tommy Bahama and Gap on our board.

My favorite accessory for men is sunshades.  The main idea here is the right fit, so don’t be bashful when trying them on to get another opinion. Ray-bans will bring a hipster style to any ensemble, and J. Crew offers an updated metrosexual style.  To complete a man’s summer look, think about adding a woven belt in a solid or a stripe.  With Gap, J. Crew, and J McLaughlin, there are so many fun belts to choose from.

Whew!  Who knew there was so much to talk about when it comes to men’s summer style?  Oh, and one more thing:  Stay cool dudes!!!

Holley Williams is a personal stylist specializing in closet inventory, seasonal shopping, closet organization and wardrobe consultation.  Contact Holley at [email protected].