It's officially summer, and if you're looking to upgrade your wardrobe for upcoming staycations, holidays abroad or even office attire, you're not alone. In need of some style inspiration? Look no further. I've spoken to menswear expert Phill Tarling (@philltarling) for all of the top trends and key pieces to invest in. From the best men's shirts to shorts, trainers and must-have accessories, scroll on for the style essentials to shop now.
Linen shirts
John Lewis Linen Regular Fit Shirt
Sizes available: S-XXL
Colours available: White, Navy, Khaki, Sand, Blue
You can't go wrong with a classic white linen shirt, and Phill recommends John Lewis for stylish pieces at affordable price points. Lightweight and breathable, this one features a regular fit, point collar and imitation mother-of-pearl buttons for an elevated edge. "John Lewis shirts comes in various colours and offer a relaxed fit, perfect for casual outings or beachwear," says Phill. "I usually take mine to the tailor for a fit that flatters my body shape."
Uniqlo 100% Premium Linen Shirt
Sizes available: XS-3XL
Colours available: Orange, Olive, White, Grey, Blue, Purple, Navy, Black, Beige
Available in a range of shades from subtle to bolder styles, Uniqlo's linen shirt is a must-have for your summer wardrobe. It's made using special wrinkle-resistant processing and has a sleek slimmer fit.
Earthy tones
Mango Openwork Knit Polo With Buttons
Sizes available: S-XXL
Colours available: Beige, Off-White
A lightweight cardi is the perfect layering piece and alternative to your trusty sweater this summer. This one from Mango comes in a beige shade that will complement everything in your capsule wardrobe.
Arket Linen Drawstring Trousers
Sizes available: 44-54
Colours available: Khaki Green, Beige, Black, Grey , Navy
For a pair of wear-everywhere shorts, Arket has just dropped this pure cotton pair. Tapping into the earthy tone trend, they have a chino mid-length style, they come with slanted side pockets and two welt pockets at the back. "Chino shorts strike the perfect balance between casual and smart," says Phill. "They are versatile enough for a range of summer activities."
Bold prints
Reiss Menton Embroidered Shirt
Sizes available: XS-XXL
Colours available: Navy, Taupe, White
Reiss does a great collection of shirts in bolder prints and colours. For something stylish and versatile but more fun that your standard navy shirt, this abstract embroidered piece ticks all of the boxes.
AllSaints Roze Slim Floral Print Swim Shorts
Sizes available: XS-XXL
Colours available: White
If you're heading on holiday, AllSaints floral swim shorts at perfect to make a statement when you're poolside. They feature two pockets, a comfortable elastic waistband, and a drawstring for adjustability.
Minimalist footwear
Veja Esplar Suede-Trimmed Leather Sneakers
Sizes available: EUR 39-46
Colours available: White
Veja's Esplar trainers are made from 100% leather with real suede trim. The minimalist design and box-fresh white shade goes with everything. And if you care about sustainability, the soles are made from wild rubber that's sustainably harvested by hand in the Amazonian forest.
M&S Lace Up Trainers
Sizes available: UK 6-12
Colours available: White
Simplicity is key with these white trainers for M&S. So affordable at just £38, the classic pair feature padding around the ankle and sturdy soles.
Webbed belts
John Lewis 35mm Woven Belt
Sizes available: S-XXL
Colours available: Black, Blue
Practical and stylish, this John Lewis belt is made from a woven cotton blend, and detailed with full grain cow leather and a lustrous metal buckle.
M&S Stretch Woven Casual Belt
Sizes available: S - 4XL
Colours available: Black, White, Navy, Chocolate, Natural, Khaki
If you're wearing a neutral colour palette, Marks & Spencer's webbed belt with contrasting tan accents is perfect (and it also comes in a whole collection of other shades). It has a traditional buckle fastening and is made from stretchy fabric for the perfect fit.
