By now, your heavy tweeds and flannels should have been collected from the dry cleaners and put to bed, only to wake up when the leaves start to float down towards the damp ground come autumn. Sartorially speaking - and I'd bet that many men would side with me - I prefer winter dress due to its richness of tone and invitation to layer. That said, summer dressing isn't without its upsides. Lightweight, neutrally-toned tailoring is one of the season's great pleasures, as it offers an opportunity to look sophisticated and feel utterly comfortable, a combination that winter attire doesn't always afford. If you’re struggling with how to approach summer tailoring take inspiration from these looks below.
Whether you're attending the Henley Royal Regatta in July or not, there is definitely
something dashing and flamboyant about traditional boating attire (when we say 'boating' we mean observing people in
boats while reclining on a grassy bank with six litres of Pimm's cup to hand). New & Lingwood provides this classic striped
and piped rowing blazer which allows you to fit in seamlessly. While it's a bold choice, pairing it with a cream
trouser will downplay its strikingness. Slip on a pair of penny loafers from Edward
Green for a smart and considered public school aesthetic and you’ll be perfect for
Henley.
When the mercury starts rising, there’s no better cloth than linen. Chester
Barrie’s brown Prince of
Waleschecklinen single-breasted blazer is a highly
versatile option thanks to the cream, brown and black tones, which work with a variety of accompanying tones. Paired
with adenim polo from Naked
Clothing and an Indian-inspired blue pocket square louchely stuffed into the breast pocket,
you’llhave a sporty look that’s fit for country drives and garden parties.
It goes without saying, but unlined jackets are a summer
essential. They provide unrestricted movement and above all, breathability, which is key in warmer weather as no one
likes a sweaty chap. Opt for this beige double-breasted unlined cashmere jacket from Lardini, and
wear it with a white linen shirt from Santillo 1970.
Bring the two together with a blue geometric motif silk tie from Edward Sexton, applied with a proper knot, for a
look that shows an implicit understanding of sprezzatura.
Rubinacci’s
unlined double-breasted beige cotton jacket is this season's equilibrium between smart and comfortable. The unlined
body keeps you cool whilst the double-breasted silhouette allows you to appear more formal. Sport a pair of navy
high-waisted Hollywood linen trousers from Edward Sexton for breathability and English
elegance. Finish off the outfit with a pair of Rubinacci’s Belgian Marphy loafers in blue suede with brown leather
piping, and you’ll have an outfit that can see you from a long lazy lunch to an evening at your club.
If you happen to be lucky enough to find yourself on the shores of the Mediterranean, you
will require a jacket that doesn’t restrict or inflict spontaneous combustion. In steps G.
Inglese's double-breasted white and blue-stripped cotton jacket. This lightweight and
comfortable jacket would work best with a plain white T-shirt and a pair of stylish sunglasses, such as these
Ray-Bans.
Wear the jacket undone with navy pleated shorts and espadrilles for ultimate beachside cool.
