Summer, Summer, Summertime… time to sit back and unwind. Well, not quite yet but as I travel to work with my face pressed into a stranger’s not-so-fresh armpit and listen to the sniffles and drones of the morbid public I can’t help but feel a certain buzz for the warmer months ahead. Don’t get me wrong, I’m well aware I live in England. Nevertheless we’re forever hopeful and guaranteed as soon as Mr Sunshine dons his 59FIFTY cap there will be a flurry of flesh on the streets. Once the bikini bottoms come out all you brothers from another mother better be ready with a brand new wardrobe, so here are your must haves for the season…
Firstly and in my eyes most importantly, do you have a denim jacket? No, why not?? You have no excuses with all sorts including coloured/ patchwork and customised denim hitting down already. If you are going to rock the denim shirt look this summer then I would opt for a short sleeve and brave it over a rudeboy net vest. Brap Braaap.
Pattern will be finding its way into your shirts and shorts but don’t fret, I promise there will be a print for everyone come spring. Whether you are full swinging for the Hawaiian movement or prefer a more subtle approach, I recommend you clash it up and wear prints together.
You may remember it like the back seat of your first car (dirty buggers) but sadly it’s that time already, the nineties are now considered retro enough to be cool. Yes, the loud prints and appalling haircuts are back. The girls are already jumping feet first into Grunge but the boys need to put their faith back into Jazzy Jeff for this one with retro brights and logo sweatshirts… Thank god for VIVA with those Fresh Prince reruns. Be heroic with some lightwash denim (think ‘This Is England’ rather than ‘Saved by the Bell’ though).
Ditch the dishwater colours because they are as bland as a spam sandwich, twenty twelve is the year men embrace colour. Coloured chinos and pop tees are back on the agenda with brighter shades including oranges and reds. If this is a step too far then the best way to introduce colour into your wardrobe is through these fun loving soles. Sitting on the fence between smart and casual they are perfect for the GQ gentleman and you will be able to find them everywhere. Expect to see them worn with a turned up trouser and bare ankles Ooooeerrrr.
Mix it up and break the rules. What rules? There are no rules anymore!! A smart and casual mash up is perfect for the modern day man. We saw a lot jogging bottoms on the catwalks so brave the streets and shake of that chav stereotype by wearing grey jogging shorts with a wicked shirt – FIT!
Talking of grey marl – the knitted sweater remains as the wardrobe security blanket. I love it oversized and ultra light, plus every guy can pull a grey sweater off!!
The wax jacket is still clinging on for dear life but there may be room for a new contender – the bomber! No, we aren’t talking terrorists so get out from under the table. This is such a good summer jacket and available in a range of fabrics, so if you buy one item this year then invest in that.
There you have it. Only one thing left to do… pick out that perfect pair of Speedos…
Words by Sara Wilson
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