The Men’s Room: Looking sharp for summer
Time to invest in some statement sunglasses, stylish boat shoes, tailored shorts and grooming essentials for a sharp summer look
Swedish Style
Move over Tom Cruise aviators, we’ll be channelling a Michael Caine vibe this summer in these retro shades with chunky acetate frames. The statement specs are part of a capsule collection for men released by H&M in collaboration with Swedish eyewear label CHIMI. As well as three unique styles of sunglasses, the range features summer staples including a short-sleeved shirt, drawstring shorts, a bucket hat, cross-body bag and poolside sliders. There’s a spirit of playfulness to the collection, with features such as wide shirt collars and a slightly higher hem shorts (dare to bare?), whilst the palette reflects the colourful and creative spirit of Stockholm-based CHIMI, with edgy pastel shades. Here’s our three favourite picks. . .
Bag, £19.99
Shirt, £24.99
Sunglasses, £34.99
* Shop the CHIMI x H&M collaboration at hm.com
Shore Thing
When it comes to versatile summer footwear, the boat shoe is a sartorial forerunner. These luxurious Tommy Jeans suede numbers, with decorative laces and silver-tone eyelets - finished with the brand’s iconic embroidered logo - are comfortable and effortlessly stylish. Team with a Ralph Lauren Sport shirt (sleeves rolled up) and a pair of chino shorts for a dapper summer look.
* Tommy Jeans boat shoe, £85, from Javelin, Bury St Edmunds, available at javelinonline.co.uk
The Brush Off
With visits to the barber kyboshed by lockdown, why not treat your tresses to some smart new products? This Ted Baker comb set – inspired by the tools of a traditional Turkish barber shop – features a fine-toothed, brushed-metal comb, which fits neatly into a smart faux leather case. Pop it in your pocket to keep your hair in check all day long. And give yourself a close shave with this smart handled razor, which comes with three replacement blades, meaning you’ll be looking sharp for months to come.
* Ted Baker The Grooming Room Barber’s Comb and Carry Case, £25, and Double Edge Razor, £45, at uk.wildandwolf.com/
Hold the Line
From the SS20 Paris runways - where it graced Paul Smith trackies and Dolce & Gabbana wrap-around suits - to the world of men’s accessories, the statement stripe is making its presence known. If you’re not the pinstripe suit type and want a subtle way to wear the trend, incorporate one of this trio from Dune London into your look. The bold panel trim detailing elevates the design without screaming in your face fashionista. Sorted.
* Trickery shoe, £85, Novano backpack, £65, Nanjing washbag, £28, at dunelondon.com
Bee Soft
Do your hands feel as rough as industrial sandpaper after all that relentless washing? Then it’s time to give them some pampering. Neve's Bees Cedarwood and Vetiver Hand Salve is a super-rich cream specially formulated for men, which works deeply to relieve rough, dry skin. With a woody fragrance and a hint of jasmine it smells divine, and packed with natural ingredients, such as pure beeswax and natural plant oils, it leaves skin feeling supple and soft.
* Neve's Bees Cedarwood and Vetiver Hand Salve, £9.95, at nevesbees.co.uk
Get Shorty
If you’ve been busy honing your calves during lockdown – or just love to wear shorts all-year-round – here’s our edit for the best styles to be seen in, from on-trend cargos to tailored chinos. . .
Portland organic cotton chino shorts, £39.95, at White Stuff
Navy and burgundy diamond print, organic cotton chino shorts, £22, at Burton
Mantaray linen blend cargo shorts, £35, at Debenhams
Linen striped shorts, £29, M&S
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Louise Cummings