Shorts are harder to get right than most men think.

There’s no jacket to sharpen the look. No layering to hide behind. When temperatures rise, the focus shifts to fit, proportion and colour balance.

Forget loud prints. Forget unnecessary accessories. A strong pair of tailored shorts and the right knit or woven shirt will do more for you than anything trend-driven.

These combinations always work.

A muted blue crewneck with olive-taupe tailored shorts feels grounded and easy. The darker short anchors the lighter top, which keeps the silhouette balanced without looking flat.

Natural-toned footwear keeps the line clean through the leg. If you want contrast, an orange cap is enough.

Where to wear it:

• Creative studios
• Coastal travel days
• Weekend gallery visits

Long sleeves in summer only work if the fabric breathes. A lightweight cream popover with sage green shorts adds texture without adding heat.

Olive espadrilles keep it cohesive and give the outfit depth without relying on contrast.

Where to wear it:

• Early evening outdoor dining
• Resort settings
• Coastal mornings

Washed rose shorts with a crisp white shirt feel bold but controlled. The contrast works because the fabrics stay matte and the fit stays sharp.

This is where tailoring matters. Shorts that follow the thigh. A shirt that holds its shape.

Where to wear it:

• Afternoon gatherings
• Mediterranean holidays
• Informal summer weddings

Chocolate brown shorts are a stronger option than standard navy. Paired with a white tee, they feel solid and confident.

Add a leather holdall and it becomes travel-ready without trying too hard.

Where to wear it:

• Short-haul flights
• City exploring in peak heat
• Creative-office Fridays

Deep blue shorts and a white crewneck reference maritime style without leaning into cliché territory.

Grey suede sneakers modernise it instantly and keep the look clean.

Where to wear it:

• Outdoor concerts
• Park events
• Casual morning meetings

Tobacco shorts with a bright white tee work especially well in direct sunlight. The warmth of the brown carries the outfit without needing a pattern.

It’s about picking the right shade rather than adding more elements.

Where to wear it:

• City walks
• Outdoor brunches
• Resort lounging

White shorts require confidence and upkeep. Paired with a pale blue shirt and tan leather accents, they look sharp rather than risky.

The leather bag adds weight so the outfit doesn’t feel too light.

Where to wear it:

• Poolside events
• Tropical dinners
• Beachfront hotels

Navy shorts and a white shirt remain the safest, strongest combination. The navy sharpens the look. The white keeps it fresh.

Sage-toned footwear or a cap softens it slightly.

Where to wear it:

• Office days during a heatwave
• City errands
• Informal dinners

Pale blue with sand-coloured linen shorts mirrors a coastal palette. It’s low contrast, relaxed and easy to wear.

This combination works best in natural light where texture becomes visible.

Where to wear it:

• Beachfront dining
• Garden parties
• Coastal weekends

Light blue tailored shorts with a white polo strike the balance between relaxed and structured.

The collar gives shape. The shorts keep it seasonal. It’s an easy step up from a basic tee.

Where to wear it:

• Country club settings
• Hybrid office environments
• Family gatherings

The Summer Uniform

When you can’t layer, every detail counts.

Shorts should sit just above the knee.

The leg opening should follow the thigh.

The top should hold its shape through the shoulders.

Get that right and you don’t need much else.

That’s your summer uniform.

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