Cool for the Summer: A Summertime Essentials Guide
Let me begin by saying I have a Love/Hate relationship with Summer. The city is alive, vibrant, and bubbling with excitement. Pre-Corona everyday in the Summertime there was a new event, adventure, or attraction and that is the part of the season I love!
The main reason Summer is not my favourite season is I hate the heat! Don’t come for me, this is a safe place. The crazy humidity, the smog and the maddening heatwaves… I’m not built for it and don’t like it. Also, can we talk about the fashion? Most of the time, I see men dressing like the heat has beat them and they’ve given up on trying. I get it, it’s hard to stay fly when the forecast is fire… literally hot as hell!
So, to keep you inspired and ready to beat the heat I have some tips to share. Hopefully these suggestions will keep you looking fresh for the next 95 – 100 days (Yes, I counted)
Invest in Breathable Fabrics
This shouldn’t even be on the list, but some guys are still wearing fabrics that aren’t meant for the season. Cotton and linen are the top 2 that most men consider for the summer season. Another option is chambray. Chambray is a cotton that has a higher thread count and a finer weave which is great for the season. There’s also rayon which is also a great option in dry heat, and even though it is not a natural fiber rayon has a thinner thread than cotton, so it’s great for delicate, lightweight clothing that drapes the body nicely.
An option for men who have a corporate career or work in a formal environment, consider investing in some seersucker suiting. Seersucker has an intricate weaving technique that threads the cotton, linen, or silk to bunch together and create a purposefully wrinkled look. The Fresco suit consists of multiple strands of yarn, high-twisted wool with an open weave, allowing the fabric to be very airy, yet quite durable. This design is specifically meant to be worn in the summer allowing for the open weave to provide maximum airflow. Surprisingly, lightweight wools can be comfortable in Summer because they “wick away” sweat.
Fewer Outfit Choices = Higher Outfit Quality
Let’s be real, it’s hot as hell and your clothing choices have now been chopped in half. I recommend investing in higher grade pieces for the summer. Your summer wardrobe should consist of pieces that can be washed multiple times and still maintain its shape and not degrade in quality.
Consider Light Layering
Summer is not always hell on earth so there are days when you can get away with lightly layering pieces. First, layer different summer fabrics, a cotton t-shirt with a seersucker blazer or a cotton tank top with a rayon button up. Layering adds depth and texture to your look. If you, do it right your look will be stylish and breathable throughout the day. Remember keep layering light.
Don’t Get Too Casual
I know everyone’s heard this from their mama at some point, “When you’re out in these streets you represent me.” I know a lot of you have been working out and want to show off your “summer body” so consider a look that is more elevate than a tank top and shorts. There are so many ways to highlight your physique that does not leave you looking like you just rolled out of bed.
Step Your Hygiene Game Up
One thing I truly apricate about the summer season is that people are way more critical and OCD about their hygiene and body odor. In the Summer let’s step it up a notch. THIS IS NOT NEGOTIABLE. Most humans sweat in hot weather, so you better have some bomb ass deodorant and a backup stick in your bag or car. I also recommend showering twice a day if you can. Also consider a good skin care regime for your face. Exfoliating a couple times a week (depending on your skin type) will give you a deeper clean by getting rid of excess oil and grime.
Exfoliating will reduce pore-clogging residue and dead skin cells, it’ll open up hair follicles and allow for a closer and safer shave with less ingrown hairs. Also, don’t over shave, your skin goes through a lot during the warmer months so give it the time to heal. Consider switching out some products during the summer. There are lighter moisturizers with sunscreen you should invest in during this season. Lastly, please wear lighter fragrances!!! I can’t stress this enough; a heavy scent will be overwhelming in the Summer and people will hate you. When choosing a scent think light, fresh and clean.
Re-Evaluate Your EDC
As the seasons change so should your everyday carry more commonly known as a bag. In the summer I reduce the number items I carry try to make sure they are multi-purpose. For men, who prefer to carry their essentials in their pockets think about investing in a card holder like this one I bought from Coach. This option will help you maintain your look and avoid that wallet imprint on your chinos. Okay? Thanks!
I hope you’ll consider the options on this list. Summer can be unrelenting, and this list can help you get through the season. Let’s keep the conversation going I’d love to know your tips and tricks to survive the season.