The heat is coming. We’ve waited patiently over numerous cold, dark months for the sun to rise early and set late, all the while blessing us with its warm rays, and we think the time has finally come. We have to make the most of the warm days, filling them with activities and plans, staying busy and trying to be outside for as long as possible, but with this summer bliss and bustle comes a new set of problems: clothing. We spend so long in the depths of disappointment when it comes to weather that we resign our wardrobes to dark palettes and heavy materials but that herringbone woollen overcoat doesn’t quite cut it in July so swap it out for a short-sleeved shirt and cool down.

To lend a helping hand, because we know how hard it is to break habits, here are our five favourite shirts that are actually designed for the warmer climes – lightweight materials, boxy cuts, short sleeves and adventurous colours aplenty.

shirts

shirts

Mfpen Beige Work Shirt

Yes, it’s an overshirt, we know it’s cheating a little bit but Mfpen’s Work shirt is tailored to an oversized, boxy fit and cut from a cotton-linen blend so we had to include it. It all comes down to the details with Mfpen, look to the mini camp collar and subtle grid pattern for reasons that this shirt stands out without shouting for attention.

shirts

shirts

Far Afield Olivenite Linen Classic Shirt

Featuring a subbed linen fabric for the maximal laid-back summer feeling, Far Afield’s Classic shirt is a lightweight piece with a relaxed collar and genuine mother of pearl buttons. We’ve picked a bold colour because if you can’t wear bright hues in summer then when can you? We recommend styling this with more muted colours like A Day’s March’s Olive Cropped Trousers.

Parlez White Pedro SS Shirt

Parlez know exactly how to cater to our tastes. We’ve been singing the praises of the navy and off-white colour combination since we can remember, and we can’t resist Parlez’s tasteful striped rendition. Featuring a camp collar and boxy fit, this shirt is made from 100% organic Japanese cotton by Kuwamura & Co. and is finished with Italian-made coconut shell buttons.

Shirts

Paul Smith White Palm Tree Print SS Shirt

Showcasing Paul Smith’s signature playful creativity alongside masterful tailoring and premium materials, this shirt is the perfect summer piece. Featuring a colourful, all-over palm tree print, it’s cut to a boxy shape for ventilation and boasts large shell buttons. Always one for the details, Paul Smith adds a loop-fastening pink top button for the final touch.

Shop all shirts at OPUMO.

Need some swimwear to go with your new summer shirting? Look to APNÉE's sustainable swimshorts.

Be sure to check out our ultimate guide to men's shirts for everything you need to know.