One of the keys to building a solid wardrobe foundation is to choose versatile pieces that can be used in multiple settings. Having these basic components allows you to not only easily choose an outfit, but look good in doing so. Below are my top five picks for casual summer essentials to make sure you look your best this season.

  1. A Cool Pair of Aviator Sunglasses

My recommendation: Ray-Ban Aviator Classic Gold Sunglasses ($153)

A classic pair of aviators look good on anyone. The thing I like most about these is that they will never go out of style, so grabbing a nice pair will certainly be worth the cost. These can be worn with anything, from suits to t-shirts and shorts, and will upgrade any outfit you are wearing. Switch out your favorite sportsman sunglasses for a pair of aviators for an easy style upgrade.

  1. Well-Fitted Polo Shirts

My recommendation: Apt. 9 Soft Touch Polo Shirts ($14.99)

Staying cool in summer is necessary but looking stylish while doing so isn’t always easy. I try to avoid logo’d/graphic shirts at all times, whether they’re polos, t-shirts or dress shirts. Opt for polos in solid colors (navy, black, grey, white) to form a basic foundation of a stylish wardrobe. Try to use contrast and keep it simple. My favorite — and super inexpensive, coincidentally — polo shirts are from Apt. 9 at Kohls. Yep, Kohls. The fabric is moisture wicking and has some stretch to it, and these look much more expensive than they are – plus, they’ll last you all summer season and then some.

  1. A Pair of Suede Tennis Shoes

My recommendation: Puma Suede Tennis Shoes ($65)

Summer is a great time to update your casual shoe collection and these Puma Suedes are the real deal. Upgrade those running shoes you’re wearing with jeans, chinos and shorts and throw these on instead. Wear sockless (or with no-show socks) and make them your go-to casual shoes this summer. Available in a number of colors, if you are more reserved, try the Navy Blue Suede ($65) , but if you’d like to add a little color get the brighter blue or burgundy ones shown above.

  1. The White Shirt

My recommendation: J.Crew American Pima Cotton Oxford Shirt ($69.50)

A staple for every season, a white shirt is one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe. I have a number of different ones, but for summer I recommend a long-sleeve, button-down Oxford cloth that can be worn untucked. You could also go with a white linen fabric, for variety. I like long sleeves because the sleeves can always be rolled up when it’s hot, and left down later for dressier evening occasions.

This shirt can be worn with practically anything – equally at home accenting a linen or cotton suit, worn untucked with any color shorts, tucked or untucked with some grey or light beige chinos, or walking down the beach at night with the sleeves down when it gets breezy. Do yourself a favor – get one and wear the heck out of it this summer.

  1. A Pair (or 2) of Light Colored Chinos

My recommendation: J.Crew Light Grey (Chrome) Slim-Fit Chinos ($68)

For the more fashion-forward, try a pair of White Chinos ($68). Since white isn’t for everyone, and you shouldn’t buy anything that you aren’t going to feel comfortable wearing, you can also get a similar look with a pair of Light Grey Chinos ($68) or a Light Beige (Canvas) Chinos ($35.50). Try to avoid the traditional khaki color, which is often too dark to look stylish. If you are used to wearing baggy chinos, try getting some more fitted pants. Start with the Straight Fits, which usually fit most guys well, and find the cut that best suits you. Don’t be afraid to have articles of clothing tailored, either! A well-fitting pair of pants makes a world of difference, no matter the occasion or season.

 

Durham resident, world traveler, gentleman-about-town — Matthew Coppedge lives by the Commandments of Style. You can check back here on Chapelboro regularly to follow his journey, find new looks, explore refinements on old favorites and peruse seasonal style guides to suit the taste of the times.

“The Commandments of Style,” and all associated content, is exclusively produced by Matthew Coppedge

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