05/15/2026
A Man’s Guide to Summer Dress: Part 1
General Guidelines — Clean, Light, and Understated
These three words sum up how a sharp dressed man clothes himself during the summer months.
Clean — A gentleman is showered, well-groomed, and his clothing is free from stains. He realizes that although he may perspire, he does not have to smell nor look like he stepped out of a sauna. If you need to shower twice a day, then do so. Use antiperspirant deodorant, and consider soaps with menthol that will help cool your body. A sharp dressed man never wears stained clothing, even if he believes others won’t notice. His hair is washed and its ends cut regularly, with excess hair on the back of the neck trimmed. Invest in a pair of nose hair clippers (which can be used on the ears as well), opt for a close shave, and treat your skin to lotions that improve health and appearance.
Light — Wear light-colored clothing and select fabrics made with breathable weaves and natural fibers such as cotton, linen, or tropical weight wool (perfect for summer’s formal events). Looser fits facilitate airflow, but do not take this to mean you should wear a full-size (or three) larger than what your body size calls for. Remember that dark colors do not reflect light but rather absorb it and all other factors being constant, are thus hotter. On a sunny day, a white long sleeve button-down cotton shirt will be much cooler than a black polyester T-shirt.
Understated — A gentleman wears quality garments that have cuts and patterns that compliment his figure and attitude — his clothing never detracts from the ladies in his company. He pays attention to unstated dress codes, plans accordingly, and shows up in accordance so that he can enjoy the companionship of those around him. If you need to bring a change of clothing, do so; try not to wear your swimming trunks into the evening festivities (unless they are in the water!). Be remembered for your friendly conversation, not for being the over-dressed peacock or under-dressed ruffian.
..more to come
Look Sharp!
www.themensshoppe.ca
