Stuffy wool blazers and summer heat do not mix, making a lightweight, unlined jacket a priority addition to your formal wardrobe this season.
Opt for breathable linen, cotton or linen-cotton blends to ensure comfort in high temperatures, and stick to versatile shades such as navy or beige that you know will match with everything you already own.
Dress it up with sharply-cut trousers, a white Oxford button-down and textured tie for a summer wedding, or combine with lightweight denim and a plain tee for a night out.
IMAGE: J.CREW 2015Recommended
Ludlow Sportcoat In Italian Cotton, available at J.Crew, priced £114.
5. White Trousers
White trousers are a menswear classic than many guys continue to shy away from.
Setting aside the practicality aspect, white trousers are extremely easy to wear and will anchor every colour under the sun, from primary red and yellow to sky blue and mint green.
The ideal way of making a statement without trying too hard, combine them with your linen shirt and lightweight blazer for a Riviera-inspired aesthetic, or team with a white piqué polo and minimal trainers for an on-trend all-white look.
It’s imperative you get the fit right with these – aim for a slim-cut style that hits just around the ankle.
IMAGE: REISS SS15Recommended
Hampton Slim-Fit White Trousers, available at Reiss, priced £75.
6. Suede Loafers
One of our five footwear styles every man should own, the suede loafer is arguably the perfect smart-casual silhouette.
Lightweight, breathable and versatile, the suede loafer – whether tasselled or penny – looks just as good with a linen suit as it does a simple shorts and shirt combination. It’s also the perfect design for going sockless, helping bring a touch of continental flair to your summertime looks.
Opt for a pair in tan, beige or light brown for maximum wearability.
IMAGE: SUITSUPPLY SS15Recommended
Brown Suede Tassel Loafer, available at Suitsupply, priced £199.
7. The Breton T-Shirt
Originally introduced as the official uniform of the French Navy, the Breton tee has gone on to cement itself as a true menswear icon over the past 100 years.
Now considered a wardrobe essential, this easy throw-on piece works seamlessly within a multitude of looks, from authentic nautical getups to smart Riviera-inspired ensembles.
With everyone from Picasso and James Dean to Ryan Gosling and David Beckham having been spotted in this classic, you’ll be in good company.
