Summer dressing is a delicate balancing act. Too casual and you look like you’ve wandered off the beach in search of a pint. Too stiff and you’ll succumb to the dreaded sweatpatches. The trick is to build an all-bases-covered summer wardrobe that's seasonally appropriate and easy to style. But assuming you already have the basics covered, there are a few capsule wardrobe additions you can make to keep things fresh this year.
A few small upgrades can go a long way. Here are some key pieces from Marame that you can add to your summer rotation to look (and feel) like you’ve got it all figured out.
Linen shorts
The simplest way to avoid looking like you’ve given up on life the minute the mercury hits 27. Linen shorts are breezy, comfortable and a significant step up from the elasticated sweat shorts you’ve been pretending are acceptable. Go for something tailored enough to hold its shape but relaxed enough not to cling. Pair with a crisp shirt, or just a well-cut tee. Bonus points if they're a bit rumbled for added nonchalance.
Knitted shirt
You don’t need to have just stepped off a yacht to justify a knitted shirt. This is your secret weapon for any occasion that calls for more than a T-shirt but less than an Oxford button-down. Soft, textured and just a touch retro, it works with shorts, trousers, or half open over a vest if you’re feeling confident. Riviera in spirit, but perfectly at home on your local beer-garden bench.
Lyocell T–shirt
Your basic cotton T-shirts do the job, but a good Lyocell version does it better. Lighter, softer, slightly... drapier? It’s the grown-up way to wear a plain tee in hot weather. Works solo with shorts, tucked into pleated trousers, or under an open shirt. And because it breathes well, you’ll sweat marginally less, which is always a win.
Suede sandals
A well-made pair of suede sandals is a reminder that summer footwear doesn’t have to mean cheap flip-flops or foam slides with a logo the size of your head. Suede feels more intentional, more adult, and will age beautifully with a bit of sun and sea spray. Wear with linen trousers, light denim or tailored shorts. Just don’t get them completely drenched.
Suede loafers
There are loafers. And then there are suede loafers, which occupy a sweet spot between relaxed and refined. They’re what you wear when you’d like to look like you’ve made a bit of effort without actually making much effort at all. Ideal with a knitted polo and chinos for dinner, or sockless with shorts if you’re feeling vaguely Italian. Treat them well, and they’ll only get better with age.
Next up: How to build a summer capsule wardrobe.
