20 Summer Staples That You Can Wear On Repeat

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20 Summer Staples That You Can Wear On Repeat

Words by The MR PORTER Team

16 June 2023

It’s not just us that finds it hard to think in summer, right? We mean, there’s scientific evidence to suggest that human beings suffer from reduced cognitive function when it gets too hot. (OK, so we didn’t get around to actually checking this, what with the mini-heat wave and all, but the facts are out there, if you’re inclined to look for them.) Which makes decision, er, making pretty, um, tough about now. Surely this is the reason why, for three solid months each year, one omnipresent song seems to soundtrack our every move. And almost certainly this is also behind our inability to wear anything other than a few tried-and-tested staple items of clothing.

There is, of course, nothing wrong with a set of core pieces to turn to when the sun turns up. But this year, may we suggest that you do your prep work and get the foundations of a great summer wardrobe sorted now, before your brain begins to melt. With that in mind, we’ve assembled 20 key items that can be worn over and over again and thereby should set you up for the season ahead. Get them right and you’re golden. (And, fingers crossed, we never have to listen to “As It Was” ever again.)

01.

The essential white Loro Piana trousers

The refinement of classic Italian tailoring meets the pyjama-like comfort of loungewear in these cream-coloured trousers from Loro Piana. The real selling point? The partially elasticated waistband makes them a perfect choice for those indulgent al fresco lunches.

02.

The modern classic Mr P. x Cubitts sunglasses

Mr P.’s collaboration with London eyewear brand Cubitts returns for its second season with a new lineup of smart, summer-ready sunnies. This pair is our pick of the bunch – it’s a timeless, versatile shape given a contemporary overhaul by the use of army-green acetate in the frames.

03.

The colour-block Brunello Cucinelli swim shorts

Swim shorts are an easy way of injecting a bit of colour into your look, but it’s best to avoid bright red unless you want to look like an extra on Baywatch. This pair from Brunello Cucinelli are cut from a quick-drying shell. They offer a more muted and versatile alternative in burgundy.

04.

The genius Ressence watch

The mesmerising layout of Ressence’s watch dial – with its sub-dials orbiting each other like celestial bodies – never gets old. This limited-edition Type 3X, a collaboration with typographer Mr Stefan Sagmeister, takes things to the next level with reimagined dial graphics.

05.

The softly tailored Boglioli blazer

When it gets really steamy, the last thing you’ll want to do is tug a blazer on over your shirt. However, there are still many occasions in the summer months that call for a bit of style, so it’s wise to have an unlined linen blazer on hand. This one, from Italian brand Boglioli has all the trappings of excellent tailoring (hand-picked stitching, kissing buttons at the cuff, a breathable double vent at the back) and will allow you to cut a sharp profile at any event on your packed calendar.

06.

The upgraded Officine Creative clogs

Not willing to get your toes out? We get it. In lieu of sandals, try out Officine Creative’s leather clogs, which will mould to your feet over time and simply get better with every wear. In fact, we wouldn’t blame you if these become your go-to shoes – your signature shoes, even – as they are easy to wear and go with (almost) everything.

07.

The summery and striped Orlebar Brown shirt

This shirt is the sartorial manifestation of the word “vacation”. Light and breathable, Orlebar Brown’s pale pink cotton camp-collar shirt would pair nicely with linen shorts or trousers, or over a swimsuit for the pool run. You know what would also go perfectly with such a top? A watermelon margarita or some kind of fancy piña colada – enjoy.

08.

The suede TOM FORD day bag

If you’re currently toting a tote bag around town on the daily, why not treat yourself to something a little more, ahem, grown up? TOM FORD’s messenger bag will do the trick. It’s not too big, and not too small and will elevate any ensemble – even if you’re just running out to the post office.

09.

The everyday Mr P. shirt

If you’re heading somewhere hot, consider packing Mr P.’s sage shirt. The cotton muslin it’s made from is soft and breathable, which makes it perfect for warmer climates. You’ll find a QR code on the care label – don’t forget to scan it for provenance info and styling tips.

10.

The leather Berluti suitcase

Want to be the most stylish man at the airport terminal? Berluti’s carry-on is one way to do just that. Made from the label’s signature embossed Venezia leather, it has an internal zipped compartment and an external pocket to keep your passport and plane reading to hand.

11.

The straw Frescobol Carioca hat

Nothing screams “summer holidays” quite like a Panama hat, and Frescobol Carioca’s is one of one of our favourites on site right now. It’s handcrafted from toquilla straw by Ecuadorian artisans and finished with a practical canvas browband, which won’t mess up your ’do on hot days.

12.

The stripey RRL cardigan

Summer’s the season to experiment with colours and patterns, but if you’re not ready to go full aloha shirt just yet, try something a little more pared-back, like RRL’s cardigan. The blend of wool, linen and cotton it’s made from adds depth and texture to any outfit.

13.

The slim-fit Bottega Veneta tank

Sometimes, a T-shirt just won’t cut it. Show off some skin in the sunshine with Bottega Veneta’s fitted tank top. It’s made from soft, lightweight cotton for a smooth handle that’s perfect for warm weather. Wear it solo during the day and layer it underneath a patterned button-down shirt on cool nights.

14.

The classic, but elevated, SAINT LAURENT sneakers

From a distance, there’s little to suggest anything out of the ordinary with these sneakers. Low profile in more ways than one, or so you’d think. But note the name on the midsole (and in gold across the upper and heel) and you know that’s not the case. With one foot on each bank of the Seine, SAINT LAURENT’s kicks offer both old-school, rock’n’roll swagger with premium, luxury materials. The very best of both worlds.

15.

The luxe Miles Leon tee

Every summer wardrobe needs a simple, comfortable T-shirt that can be worn every day. For that, look no further than this Henley tee from Miles Leon. Woven from a breathable blend of linen and cotton, it’ll quickly become a go-to you reach for over and over again on balmy days. It’s also cut for a relaxed fit and comes in a neutral hue that’s easy to style.

16.

The iconic Gucci loafers

Leather dress shoe too stuffy for summer? Enter the loafer. And not just any loafer, Gucci’s signature design, which has been a classic staple ever since it was introduced in the 1950s. This Jordaan pair is rendered in velvety brown suede and finished with the brand’s hallmark horsebit hardware. They are perfect for days with no rain on the forecast.

17.

The elevated Purdey polo

“Sophisticated polo” might seem like a contradiction, but it appears British heritage label Purdey has pulled off exactly that. How, you ask? By casting the summer classic in a subdued, goes-with-everything twine green, knitting it from an 18-gauge soft cotton, and doing away with the button placket for an altogether more streamlined, evening-worthy silhouette.

18.

The textured SMR Days shorts

Cop these shorts by SMR Days and we guarantee they’ll be glued to your backside this season (although do throw them in the wash every now and again). That’s because not only do they come in that perfect chocolaty shade of brown that sets off summer whites beautifully, they’re also equipped with a drawstring waistband for next-level ease and comfort.

19.

The eco-emerald 42 SUNS necklace

Don’t neglect the finishing touches when putting together your summer wardrobe. In our view, the difference between well-dressed and best-dressed comes down to those nitty-gritty details. Try this subdued emerald necklace by 42 SUNS for size – it’s glittering enough to draw attention, but no so flashy as to suggest you actually tried.

20.

The crafty Karu Research jacket

What do you get when you cross centuries-old Indian craftsmanship with the “quiet luxury” trend (or anti-trend, rather)? Enter this crochet-collared chore jacket by Karu Research, which has pared back its usual bold prints and bright colours for something a little more restrained – albeit no less artisanal.