9 summer style essentials every Australian guy should own
WHILE A certain subsection of Aussie gents will always be beholden to the summer combo of a slim-fit tee, boardies and thongs, slowly but ever-so-surely, the nation’s men are starting to wake up to the fact that there’s more to summer style than simply dressing for the beach every day. Of course, Australia’s insane weather often makes pulling off an eye-catching fit easier said than done—but even with the country apparently set to swelter through a seriously hot holiday period, there’s a multitude of ways to revamp your wardrobe while keeping it comfortable in warmer climates.
Here, then, is the ultimate checklist for effortless, timeless style throughout the Aussie summer, covering both essential upgrades to some long-trodden favourites and a couple of new investments you should be making.
A statement party shirt
Since making a huge comeback on the red carpets of European film fests a few years back, the camp collar bowling shirt has slowly become the latest piece to invade pretty much every Aussie guys’ wardrobe in recent years. And while a couple of more reserved shirts are always good for summer days in the office (or even layering under a suit at a warm wedding), we also thoroughly recommend being as playful with your shirting as possible, whether it be experimenting with bold prints, new textures or out-there materials.
An upgraded tank
You may or may not have noticed the trend of guys layering slutty singlets underneath all manner of shirting or suiting, but take it from us—the tank isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. And while the old-faithful chesty you get half-price at Woolies is fine for lounging about in, swapping it out for something with a little more structure and finesse is a great, often inexpensive way to add a little zest to your next big summer fit. In fact, Bonds make a great one themselves.
Timeless eyewear
While Aussies have been busy ironically leaning into speed dealers and noughties shades for a good while now, the fact remains that while trends come and go in eyewear so fast it’ll make your head spin, some sunnies will never go out of style. Our safe bet? Something soft yet angular to suit a variety of face shapes. Nail a pair of these down, then you can start experimenting.
Sustainable swimwear
We’d like to think you’re not clinging on for dear life to the Quiksilver’s you used to wear as a kid, but if you are, it’s time to invest in something a little more grown up. Resort-wear king Orlebar Brown is a great place to start for swimmers that channel big White Lotus energy without costing the earth.
An heirloom sports watch
No true style icon has ever hit the waves without a suitable timepiece in tow, and neither should you. Whether it be a diver or something even more dressed down, watches are at their most versatile when they’re just that little bit rugged, and will last a lifetime if treated with a little respect. Whether to go for a bracelet, rubber or nylon strap though? That’s up to you.
The only plain tee you’ll ever need
Big, boxy tees have firmly supplanted their slim-fitting cousins as the go-to for fashion-conscious gents going forward. You can really spend as much as you want here, and sustainable is always better, but if you don’t know where to start, we’ve found UNIQLO U’s crew-neck tee still tows the line between style and value like no other.
Wear-anywhere slip-ons
The Aussie ideal of leisurely footwear was once all about throwaway thongs, recent times have seen a shift towards more luxurious options. Mules like Birkenstock’s Boston and luxe slides have become the new must-have, offering options that work not just for the beach, but the bar as well.
A signature summer fragrance
Warm-weather scents can be a whole lot more experimental than the overly aquatic nightmares that department stores pump out to the parents of unsuspecting teenagers every winter. The next generation of summer fragrances embrace ozone, citrus, wood and even spice in new and unique ways, without sacrificing the cleanliness that’s oh-so-necessary on a hot day. Suffice it to say when you try one, you’ll never look at a bottle of D&G Light Blue the same way again.
Summer-ready suiting
Ever seen some poor bloke sweating bullets in a wool suit when the sun comes out at a wedding? Ever been that poor bloke yourself? Us too, which is why a formal option made something more breathable should be mandated for every Aussie guy. Linen is the natural place to start, but brushed cotton and seersucker also fit the bill.
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