The time of the crisp summer jacket has come again — everyone from DSquared to Matalan is doing one. Dress yours up with sharp tailoring or down with a T-shirt and skinny jeans. But don’t be too precious about it — you’ll look like a footballer on the pull, which is bad.
2. PRIMARY COLOURS
Searing colour is back on the agenda. Use it sparingly: red cotton trousers, a blue polo shirt or a yellow belt, but not all three together.
3. A SUMMER SCARF
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You want something wispy, lightweight and slightly ratty-looking to throw casually around your neck. Just remember that the scarf is there to look cool, not to keep you warm. Where to look? Burberry Prorsum (washed cotton, from £75) and Margaret Howell (silk, from £135).
4. THE PREPPY CRICKETER LOOK
So many designers have done classic English sweaters that it would be a shame not to take advantage. Take up cricket or go for a smart/casual look that includes V-neck tank tops, lightweight cable knits and pale summer blazers. The labels to work are Louis Vuitton, Burberry Prorsum and Nicole Farhi; on the high street, check out Fred Perry.
5. A WEEKEND BAG
A proper man bag is essential this season. Don’t let yourself down on your weekends away with your old Head sports holdall; invest in something that makes a statement. Paul Smith has flight bags printed with images of classic Minis (£190; 020 7379 7133). Smart, but good fun.
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6. A CHEST WAX
A clean sweep makes sense with this summer’s smooth look. A single waxing (£30 in the men’s salon at Selfridges) lasts for about six weeks, so should see you through the summer. Think of it as a few moments’ pain for a lot of fashion gain — and a non-blotchy tan.
7. COLOURED SUNGLASSES
That’s the frames, as well as the lenses. White, yellow, blue, red — any colour, as long as it’s bright. Cutler and Gross Vintage (020 7590 9995) does a good selection; or, for a subtler look, go for Ray-Ban.
8. A PROPER HAIRCUT
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This summer is all about serious grooming, so get yourself a hairstyle that doesn’t look as if it’s just a happy coincidence. We’re talking military-style cropped or a classic short back and sides.
9. A BIT OF MILITARY
The military look this season is more peace army than hard-core squaddie, with khaki shirts and combats teamed with flip-flops. At the top end, look to Miu Miu and Costume National; on the high street, River Island has khaki and blue military shirts for £34.99.
10. BELT UP AND TUCK IN
If you do nothing else, smarten up your act. Tees and shirts should now be worn tucked into trousers and jeans, giving a more streamlined look. Wear with Vans Old Skool Hi-top trainers.