One sure way to nail this formula without mistakenly getting raised along the flag pole is to combine a classic white tee with navy blue pants, shorts, or denim, along with a primary or dark red cardigan for cool summer evenings.
Sometimes, deep contrast is what you want for maximum dynamism in an outfit. To experiment with this color combination, try pairing a pair of off-white painter/carpenter pants with a dark, forest green top (either a tee or a camp collar shirt). Tie it all together with a pair of tan loafers and a matching tan braided belt!
Minimalism can be elegant, and there’s no better proof than the classic black and white combo. This generally works best for slightly elevated outfits, ranging from smart casual to business casual. Try starting with a pair of white pleated trousers, preferably in a breathable fabric like cotton, or even better, linen. Pair them with a black knit polo, tucked in ideally, and accessorize with a black leather belt and matching loafers.
Are you an autumnal soul? As in, someone who wishes it was fall during all three other seasons? We don’t blame you! Autumn color palettes are some of the most visually pleasing and downright cozy. The good news is, you don’t have to wait until fall to incorporate autumnal earth tones into your summer wardrobe! It’s not like it’s illegal. If anything,
When worn well, pink can be a surprisingly masculine color that echoes elegance and signals sophistication. An easy way to see this for yourself is by pairing deep blue trousers (try seersucker or linen for ideal weather friendly comfort) with a soft pink linen shirt – either long sleeve or short. You can also swap the pants for shorts if that’s more your thing.
No, no, we’re not kidding around with this one. The key is to incorporate summer texture. White pants or shorts in either linen or seersucker, combined with a white top in a similar fabric. Linen on linen works wonders. Seersucker on linen is great, too. Seersucker on seersucker tends to work best with a suit, but use your discretion.
Tan is a canvas upon which everything will match, which is why going bold and exciting with a contrasting shade is a good bet. Teal is a fine choice because it’s reminiscent of mediterranean oceans and mosaic tiles, further reinforcing the summery association. The safest way to approach this look is with tan chinos or shorts combined with a rich teal top (either a tee, linen shirt, or camp collar shirt).
Looking for something similar to the previous option but one that works a bit better in more professional settings? Beige trousers, paired with chocolate brown loafers and a matching belt, look great with sage green, a calmer alternative to teal.
Don’t underestimate the versatility of gray in your summer wardrobe. In truth, it can go with almost anything, but looks sleekest when paired with black. Not convinced? Try combining a pair of gray linen pants with a black knit polo for that after work rooftop party, or gray shorts with a black tee for a sleek and minimal laid-back day. From fine summer tailoring to relaxed and leisurely attire, this combo is something of a cheat code, if you ask us.
We’re not done with shades of red! Maroon is often seen as one of the more mature shades, but you can make it feel a bit more playful if you pair it next to an airy mint color tone. A pair of mint green (fainter than sage, in most cases) pants or shorts delivers extra wow-factor when placed alongside a maroon red top. From tees to polos to linen button downs, you’ve got options.