Fashion Blogs

Image by: whatsthatpicture

Technically, we’ve galloped into the summer months and should be enjoying the glorious rays of a blistering sun.

OK, so the official summertime might have kicked off to a rather laborious and less-than-summery start, but when the truly radiant season of barbeques, swing ball and eye-gouging hay fever makes good on its bright and sizzling promise, men and women alike will want to stride confidently into town enrobed in a suitably summery ensemble. 

Men’s summer style usually – and somewhat stereotypically - consists of polo shirts, Hawaiian shorts and flip-flops. But for the more contemporary, sophisticated male, a more eye-catching, attention-grabbing wardrobe is essential.

Tote Bag

The modern and stylish alternative to its oh-so-last-year counterpart, the rucksack, a tote bag is typically made from canvas with thick leather handles. Available in a variety of colours, they’re a winning combination of practical and chic.

Shoes

Flip-flops are a bone of contention when it comes to standard summer garb. Like marmite, people either love them or hate them. Personally, I have many fond memories flip-flopping my way through many a summery beach promenade.  They come in rubber and canvas and an eye-catching cornucopia of colours and they’re still great for the beach and poolside, though they’ll generally only last one summer season.

Times and fashions change though, with the leather sandal, classic buck or derby lace-up nowadays being the more favoured summer footwear du jour. And unlike flip-flops they can last for years, even decades, and brilliantly fuse fashion with comfort.

Canvas Belts

If you’re shopping for a pair of summer shorts it’s only logical to pick up a canvas belt to accompany it.  Take the neutrality off a pair of khaki, navy or white shorts with a colourful canvas belt, which add a splash of vibrancy to your summer wardrobe as well as preventing your shorts from stretching or sliding down – which could be embarrassing. Belts also afford you a Superman-fast change from casual, un-tucked informality to a more cleaned up presentation.

Hats

Those of certain age will remember the exotic Man From Del Monte ads, the lead purveyor of the world’s tastiest pineapple chunks and wearer of fine Panama hats.  Fashion-wise it’s a throwback to the 1920s and cuts an elegant and cultured edge when paired with linen blazers and cotton chinos and shorts. 

Straw hats, too – no, not the more comical large Mexican headwear – add a stylish addition to any summer ensemble. Add a quirky edge by wearing it at a slightly jaunty angle yet still those rays at bay.

The even trendier Baker Boy Hat is another summer headpiece that can bring an extra dimension and vitality to your summer kit.  These hats take their cue from the one worn by Robert Redford in the original The Great Gatsby and the art deco period. David Beckham and Jason Statham have been seen wearing them, so what more proof could you need of its uber cool sartorial credentials?

Gadgets

Men love gadgets. Fact.  And there are plenty of top gadgets to compliment and accessorize your summer look.

eReaders and GPS navigators might not particularly be fashion accessories, but they do compliment your summer image and lifestyle melieu. 

And hot on the trail of the Olympics, Omega has made an official watch, packed with nerd-tastic and techie features and straps you can change to suit the seasons.  And let’s be honest, glancing at your watch occasionally is infinitely better than obsessively checking your mobile every thirty seconds.

Sunglasses

If you’re out in the sun it’s vital to protect yourself from those harmful UV rays. Hats are one way, but sunglasses are another. And not only are they an effective and practical defence to protect your squinting peepers, but a good, well-chosen pair of sunglasses can frame your face. And as they come in a mind-boggling array of metals, colours, styles and lenses, there’s a pair of sunglasses to suit practically everyone’s taste. 

So boost your sartorial sexiness with a few of these essential men’s summer accessories.

Can you think of any other worthy additions? Share in the comments.  

Bio: Susannah Perez is a passionate fashion and beauty writer who blogs for Star Sunglasses.