Best Summer Shirts for Men to Invest In This Season

The time has come. The days are stretching longer and brighter, and the heatwaves are increasingly seeping into our reality. With summer approaching slowly but surely, it's time for that wardrobe refresh you've been postponing. If you're a fan of street style, t-shirts are probably your go-to, and you're feeling sorted and ready for the season.

However, if you're more of a timeless, sharp kind of guy who appreciates quality and classic appeal over fleeting trends, then you might need to consider some summer essentials beyond your usual tees.

Knowing what shirts to wear every season is the key to impeccable style. We're not just talking about a classic white—oh, no. We mean versatility, quality, and comfort that will truly make you look the part.

And when it comes to the best summer shirts for men, we might just know a thing or two. 

Cotton Shirts for Men: The Must-Have Staple

Unanimously, the king among summer shirts. And for a good reason. Cotton is soft, breathable, and moisture-absorbent. It's the piece that will keep you cool (literally and metaphorically) and comfortable at all times as the heat waves progress. When you're sipping on your beer in the pub under the blazing summer sun, it'll allow air to circulate freely, wicking away the sweat. Nothing like synthetic fabrics that will only trap heat and make things very stuffy and very sweaty way too quickly. 

The best cotton shirts out there are the ones with tightly woven fabrics like Egyptian and Pima cotton. You'll notice that they feel softer and, over time, last much longer. We also strongly suggest looking for a smooth finish and even stitching. That's what gives away good craftsmanship and superb quality.

Pair your cotton shirts with Prince of Wales Check trousers or classic blue jeans, and you've got summer on your side this season.

Breathable Shirts Beyond Cotton

Yes, cotton shirts may reign supreme, but they're definitely not your only choice this summer. 

Another favourite that'll offer you great fit, comfort and a sharp look is linen. That's the ultimate fabric for lightweight summer shirts and a great antidote to the unbearable heat. You get breezy airflow and quick drying time, so make sure you pack it with you on that weekend getaway to humid destinations. It'll be your life's saviour. Linen is an especially good choice if you want to achieve a more relaxed, effortless vibe. It goes very well with Sta-Prest and Dogtooth trousers. However, linen shirts do wrinkle a lot (more easily than cotton), so looking your best might mean keeping the iron close and ready. 

We also encourage you not to shy away from blends like cotton-linen and cotton-polyester mixes. There's something to say about the best of both worlds here. You can say these are marriages that balance softness, breathability, but also durability. And the annoying wrinkles will definitely be less of a problem. So consider these as another solid choice for your summer wardrobe. 

How to Spot Breathable Fabrics Worth Buying?

To help you nail the look, here are some useful tips to follow when you hit the shops:

• Keep your eyes peeled for natural fibres like cotton, linen, hemp, and blends with a high percentage of these materials. Anything else will make your summer days long and way too hot!

• Always check the weave. Looser ones allow for more airflow and are more breathable. Try to stay away from tight ones. 

• Touch the fabrics and notice how they feel. Good options will be light and airy in your hands, not heavy or coated. 

• Read. Read. Read. The product descriptions themselves will give you clues like ‘moisture-wicking’, ‘lightweight’, and ‘cool-touch'.  

It's definitely worth taking the time to find good-quality pieces made from various materials to keep your options fresh and functional throughout the season. 

The Return of The Short Sleeve

True, these used to be associated with casual outlooks, but those days are long gone. The short-sleeved shirt has made a comeback, and it's exactly what you need for comfort and effortless cool. Not only are they breathable and light to the touch, but they’re also an excellent choice for day-to-night plans.

The rule goes: when temperatures climb, so do sleeves. And worry not! You'll still look sharp and put together. A well-cut short sleeve will keep you dapper without breaking a sweat! Why? Because they're meant to suit many different summer styles:

• For casual outfits, trust Cuban collars, relaxed fits and, of course, bold prints. Weekend, holidays, and pub crawl with friends? Sorted. 

• If you're looking for something more smart-casual, though, do opt for tailored fits in solid colours, subtle stripes, and minimal patterns. 

• Finally, for very smart, work-appropriate settings, the crisp short sleeve in neutral tones or classic checks is your go-to. And together with lightweight vintage trousers? Unbeatable pair. 

Styling Tips for a Dapper Summer Look

You nailed the fabric. Now it's time to learn how to rock the fit. How you style your best summer shirts has everything to do with how great they look and feel.  

The first thing you need to keep in mind is to layer, but always do it with subtlety. Unbutton the short-sleeved shirt over a fine cotton vest or over a fitted tee. How very 90s of you! And if the weather allows it, meaning if you sense a cool breeze, an unlined blazer will help you get the structure you need to steal the show. 

Accessorising is another element of style you need to nail to complete that smart summer look. Details do matter, so don't overlook them! Roll the sleeves of a long-sleeve shirt, add a woven belt and a pair of classic sunglasses. You're timeless. Footwear also makes a huge difference. Loafers, espadrilles, and neutral trainers should be waiting for you by the door. 

Follow these, and you'll be rocking the refined summer style like no biggie.

Look Good & Feel Even Better

Dressing sharp in summer basically means having classic, breathable shirts at hand. The ultimate takeaway is to invest in quality fabrics that’ll feel like a second skin, welcoming the airflow. That way, you'll be cool, comfortable, and effortlessly put together, no matter the occasion or time of day. 

And it's not about quantity. All you need is a few good pieces with a great fit to stand the test of time and carry you through summer season after season.