Spring Summer Shirting Styles

For some time now the vacation shirt has boasted an unbreakable bond with the menswear industry. While trends may come and go for many reasons, vacation shirts lead the way for surviving fashion’s passage of time. Packed with some serious staying power, these bold button-ups are a certain hallmark of spring summer, each and every year.

But what makes these camp-collared shirting styles so popular? Well, as the saying goes, ‘fortune favours the bold’, and these often-raucous designs have a lot to answer for that. Their head bending patterns seek maximum exposure, while their boxy, breezy cuts prove undeniably suited to the season’s sweltering climes.

SS19 Offerings:

With more vacation shirts hitting the market than ever, and more on the horizon, there’s no avoiding this lightweight layer. So whether you’re setting your sights on the tropical enclave of Hawaii or the city’s tangled streets this summer, the following vacation shirts will offer suitability for both.

DSQUARED2

Dean and Dan Caten, the Canadian duo behind DSquared2, can always be relied on to supply some seriously striking looks. Truly taking the vacation shirt trend to dizzying new heights, the Catens offer up this azure blue style. Guaranteed to make a splash at a number of summer occasions, the Italian made DSquared2 shirt surprises with a ‘spring has sprung’ kind of vibe. With this in mind, we’ve chosen to pair ours with some tonal companions, including a reflective pair of Ray Bans and smart navy trousers.

RALPH LAUREN

Opting to head back to the vacation shirt’s ostentatious roots, this flamboyant Ralph Lauren shirt will command attention for all the right reasons. The all-American label have us picturing island living with the breezy rendition. Its viscose body will ensure you remain cool and comforted through every sun-soaked getaway while staying bang on trend. We recommend reserving this garment exclusively for sandy shores and pairing with some breathable chino shorts for a smart-casual spin.

PAUL SMITH

If Kaleidoscope palettes or patterns aren’t for you, former tailor Sir Paul Smith may have your answer. Lacking colour and bold accents in the slickest way, this crisp white Paul Smith vacation shirt is every inch timeless. Crafted in Portugal and therefore sealed with exceptional quality, there’s no unnecessary fuss about this cream piece – making it the most versatile option on our lineup yet. Wear untucked for a look that cuts a casual figure.

ALBAM

Similarly, sticking to their expertly understated ways too, British label Albam choose to strip things back. Leaning on a relaxed silhouette and a cedar pink tone, this 50s inspired Albam shirt turns back the sartorial clock. Both traditional and classic, the garment’s build features a relaxed camp collar and patch pocket for a subtle touch of practicality. We reckon an enduring pair of jeans and the blissful surroundings of a beer garden will do this style some summer justice.

FOLK

Much like Albam, fellow London label Folk are fastidious about quality. And for that reason, we know you can rely on this vacation shirt’s longevity. Made from super soft cotton, with an exclusive Ikat design spanning its base, this Folk shirt takes us back to the 50s era – yet again. In a bid to tune into the garment’s vintage design cues, we’ve highlighted the style with a pair of charming boat shoes. A spacious APC tote completes the outfit and will help you navigate the nonchalant look into urban settings.

If, however, you’re not down with that shirt’s serious case of the blues, the brand has plenty more on offer. Perhaps these green or yellow Folk shirts will feel more appropriate for your rotation? They’re built with the exact same airy design and don’t need a pattern to make an impact.

PATAGONIA

Finally, in a surprising move from Patagonia – an outdoor centric brand with a feel for adventure, the label turn over a new leaf this season. Literally. Free from a wholly technical aesthetic here, this Patagonia shirt is draped in a leafy palm pattern.

Designed to look equally cool buttoned to the top or worn open, we imagine this laidback version will go down a treat on your summer holiday. Especially on the Mediterranean coast, six beers deep and far beyond.