Long-pants weather has hung around longer than usual this year, but those days are done. Rain or shine, there’s no denying the heat and humidity in the air.
Update your look accordingly with these six core basics and you’ll be set for the season ahead: cool, comfortable and prepared for spontaneous swims and impromptu drinks after work.
1. The Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt
Let your hair down in an impeccably crafted linen shirt from Brazilian beach label Frescobol Carioca. You’ll have it forever and it’s one of those rare pieces that gets better with every wash. Looks as good on the beach as it does in a smart summer beer garden.
2. The New & Improved Polo
Forget turned-up collars and preppy logos – today’s polos are beach-ready and a little bit retro. Beat the heat in this terry towelling iteration from
boardshort king
Orlebar Brown.
Queenslanders will of course love this
Damson colourway, but if you’re not from around here there are plenty more shades to choose from.
3. The Boardshorts You Can Wear Out
We’re also big fans of the printed shorts trend in general because why should shirts have all the fun? Mix it up by going neutral on top and graphic down below.
4. The Closed-In Espadrilles
Big in Rio and soon to star in your wardrobe,
espadrilles are a comfortable and urbane style for weekdays as well as weekends.
It’s the sturdy straw and rubber sole that elevates this pair from pure beach wear – not to mention the supple suede and leather upper.
5. The Sophisticated Slides
Give the Birks a rest and slip into
non-rubber slides that will easily take you from pool to pub without missing a beat.
This supremely comfortable ‘
Cesare’ pair from
Gianvito Rossi (son of legendary Italian shoemaker Sergio) are fit for a Roman emperor, with a lightweight construction that makes them easy to slip on and off.
6. The Blockbuster Aviators
So, we thought we had Tom Cruise to thank for the
aviators comeback, but it turns out our favourite new sunnies are inspired by a way cooler silver screen franchise – James Bond.