Summer calls for style that’s breathable, effortless, and versatile enough for anything from beach days to casual dinners.
Navigating hot weather while maintaining sharp looks can be a challenge, but with the right pieces and combos, it’s totally achievable.
Whether you prefer laid-back casual or polished smart-casual, these 21 summer outfit ideas for men will inspire your wardrobe this season. Each look balances comfort and style, helping you stay cool and confident all summer long.
1. Classic White Tee & Chino Shorts
Combo: Crisp white crewneck tee + khaki chino shorts + white low-top sneakers
Style note:
Choose a fitted white tee made from breathable cotton or linen-blend fabric to stay cool. Khaki chino shorts in a slim or tailored fit keep the look sharp but casual. White sneakers add a fresh, clean vibe.
Roll the shorts slightly above the knee to show off your sneakers and keep things summery. Accessorize with a leather-strapped watch and classic sunglasses.
Why it works:
This timeless combo is the foundation of easy summer style — simple, fresh, and effortlessly cool.
2. Linen Button-Up & Slim Jeans
Combo: Light beige linen button-up shirt + light wash slim jeans + suede loafers
Style note:
A linen button-up is perfect for summer with its breathability and relaxed texture. Opt for light beige or pastel tones to reflect heat. Pair with slim, light-wash jeans for a laid-back but put-together look.
Suede loafers elevate the outfit, keeping it appropriate for casual dates or summer evenings. Roll up the sleeves for extra coolness.
Why it works:
Combines smart casual with breathable fabrics, great for day-to-night wear.
3. Polo Shirt & Tailored Shorts
Combo: Navy polo shirt + white tailored shorts + leather sandals
Style note:
Go for a fitted navy polo shirt in a cotton pique fabric that breathes well and has subtle texture. White tailored shorts contrast sharply with navy for a crisp, nautical vibe.
Leather sandals add a luxe casual touch, perfect for summer outings or casual dinners. A woven belt and a straw fedora complete this elevated look.
Why it works:
Smart yet easygoing, the perfect summer outfit that balances style and comfort.
4. Graphic Tee & Cargo Shorts
Combo: Vintage-inspired graphic tee + olive cargo shorts + canvas sneakers
Style note:
Pick a graphic tee with muted colors or retro prints to add personality without being loud. Olive cargo shorts keep it practical and add texture. Pair with classic canvas sneakers for comfort and durability.
Throw on a bucket hat or baseball cap and a simple bracelet or watch for finishing touches.
Why it works:
Casual and functional, this outfit is ideal for outdoor summer activities or festivals.
5. Short-Sleeve Shirt & Linen Pants
Combo: Patterned short-sleeve button-up + beige linen trousers + slip-on loafers
Style note:
A short-sleeve shirt with subtle patterns like palm leaves or micro florals brings summer vibes without being over the top.
Pair with breathable beige linen trousers that are loose-fitting but tailored enough to avoid looking sloppy. Slip-on loafers in suede or soft leather keep it relaxed yet refined.
Why it works:
Perfect for warm days when you want to look polished but feel cool.
6. Henley Shirt & Denim Shorts
Combo: Light gray henley shirt + mid-wash denim shorts + boat shoes
Style note:
Henleys are a great upgrade from basic tees with a little more structure and detail. Choose a lightweight gray henley to keep it neutral. Denim shorts in a mid wash are classic and versatile.
Boat shoes add a coastal touch, great for casual summer hangouts or boat trips.
Why it works:
Combines rugged and casual elements, ideal for laid-back summer vibes.
7. Tank Top & Jogger Shorts
Combo: Solid-colored tank top + tapered jogger shorts + slip-on sneakers
Style note:
Choose a neutral or pastel tank top in soft, breathable cotton. Pair with tapered jogger shorts in lightweight fabric like cotton or nylon blends for comfort and ease of movement.
Slip-on sneakers or espadrilles keep things casual yet stylish. Add a baseball cap and sunglasses to complete the summer-ready look.
Why it works:
Casual and athletic-inspired, great for days in the sun or casual meetups.
8. Chambray Shirt & White Jeans
Combo: Light blue chambray shirt + slim white jeans + desert boots
Style note:
Chambray shirts look like denim but are lighter and perfect for summer. Leave a few buttons undone and roll up the sleeves for a relaxed feel. White slim jeans brighten the outfit and keep it summery.
Desert boots or suede chukkas add a rugged yet stylish finish. Keep accessories minimal with a leather strap watch.
Why it works:
A fresh take on denim, ideal for casual dates or city strolls.
9. Striped Tee & Navy Shorts
Combo: Navy and white striped crewneck tee + navy chino shorts + white sneakers
Style note:
Stripes are a classic summer pattern. Choose a tee with thin navy and white stripes in a soft cotton. Pair with matching navy chino shorts for a monochrome look that feels clean and fresh.
White sneakers add a sporty vibe. A canvas belt and sunglasses keep things cool and practical.
Why it works:
Nautical-inspired and timeless, perfect for casual summer outings.
10. Lightweight Blazer & Shorts
Combo: Light gray unstructured blazer + white tee + tailored shorts + loafers
Style note:
Opt for an unstructured blazer in a breathable linen blend for summer sophistication. Pair it with a crisp white tee and tailored shorts in a neutral shade like beige or navy.
Loafers or minimal sneakers elevate the look without sacrificing comfort. Finish with a leather strap watch and sunglasses for a polished yet relaxed vibe.
Why it works:
A smart summer outfit ideal for casual meetings or garden parties.
11. Casual Button-Down & Swim Shorts
Combo: Short-sleeve button-down shirt + patterned swim shorts + slides
Style note:
Wear a loose-fitting short-sleeve shirt over swim shorts for a quick transition from beach to lunch. Choose a shirt in breathable cotton or linen in subtle prints or pastel shades.
Patterned swim shorts add color and fun. Slides or flip-flops keep it laid-back. Sunglasses and a straw hat add style points.
Why it works:
Perfect for beach days or pool parties where you want to look good without changing.
12. Lightweight Hoodie & Chino Pants
Combo: Light gray or beige hoodie + khaki chinos + white sneakers
Style note:
For cooler summer nights, a lightweight hoodie is great. Choose a thin cotton or linen-blend hoodie to avoid overheating.
Pair with tapered khaki chinos for a casual but neat look. White sneakers add freshness. Add a baseball cap or beanie for extra style and sun protection.
Why it works:
Comfortable and stylish for late evenings or casual outdoor events.
13. Retro Track Jacket & Shorts
Combo: Vintage-inspired track jacket + white tee + athletic shorts + trainers
Style note:
A retro track jacket in bright colors or block patterns adds personality. Pair with a plain white tee and athletic shorts in neutral tones.
Trainers or running shoes keep the sporty look intact. Add a gym bag or crossbody for an urban edge.
Why it works:
Trend-forward and functional, great for sporty summer days.
14. Hawaiian Shirt & Denim Cutoffs
Combo: Bold printed Hawaiian shirt + denim cutoff shorts + espadrilles
Style note:
Embrace summer vibes with a bold Hawaiian shirt in bright colors or tropical prints. Pair with high-rise denim cutoffs that show off a little edge.
Espadrilles add a casual beach touch. Sunglasses and a straw fedora finish the easygoing look.
Why it works:
Bright, bold, and relaxed — perfect for summer vacations or festivals.
15. Sleeveless Shirt & Cargo Pants
Combo: Solid sleeveless shirt + tan cargo pants + hiking sandals
Style note:
Sleeveless shirts keep your arms free and cool on hot days. Pair with tan cargo pants for utility and breathability. Hiking sandals offer comfort and durability, great for outdoor adventures.
Keep accessories minimal — a sports watch and sunglasses work well.
Why it works:
Functional and cool for hiking or outdoor summer activities.
16. Baseball Tee & Joggers
Combo: Three-quarter sleeve baseball tee + tapered joggers + slip-on sneakers
Style note:
Go for a classic baseball tee with contrasting sleeves in breathable cotton. Pair with tapered joggers in lightweight fabrics for comfort.
Slip-on sneakers add ease and casual style. A cap and simple chain necklace can elevate the look.
Why it works:
Sporty and casual, great for laid-back summer days or evening hangouts.
17. Short-Sleeve Sweater & Jeans
Combo: Lightweight knit short-sleeve sweater + light wash jeans + loafers
Style note:
A short-sleeve knit sweater in cotton or linen blends is perfect for summer evenings. Light wash jeans keep the look casual.
Loafers or moccasins add a touch of refinement. Finish with a leather belt and wristwatch.
Why it works:
Balancing knitwear and summer lightness for style and comfort.
18. Lightweight Vest & Trousers
Combo: Linen or cotton vest + white tee + cropped chinos + sneakers
Style note:
Layer a lightweight vest over a simple white tee for added texture and style. Choose cropped chinos in pastel or earth tones for summer vibes. Minimalist sneakers keep the look fresh. A leather strap watch and sunglasses finish the outfit.
Why it works:
A modern take on layering that works well for warm days and casual settings.
19. Sleeveless Hoodie & Shorts
Combo: Sleeveless cotton hoodie + athletic shorts + trainers
Style note:
Sleeveless hoodies add edge and functionality while keeping cool. Pair with athletic shorts that allow movement and airflow. Trainers complete the athletic vibe.
Add a sporty watch and a cap for style and sun protection.
Why it works:
Perfect for sporty summer days or casual streetwear.
20. White Linen Shirt & Navy Shorts
Combo: White linen button-up + navy chino shorts + leather sandals
Style note:
A crisp white linen shirt feels luxurious and breathable in summer. Navy chino shorts keep the outfit grounded and versatile. Leather sandals elevate the look and offer breathability.
A woven belt and simple sunglasses complete the elegant summer look.
Why it works:
Clean, classic, and perfect for warm summer days or casual events.
21. Graphic Tank & Board Shorts
Combo: Bold graphic tank + patterned board shorts + flip-flops
Style note:
Choose a graphic tank with a summer or surf vibe. Pair with patterned board shorts in bright colors or tropical prints. Flip-flops keep it easy and breezy.
Add sunglasses and a casual cap for extra flair.
Why it works:
Ultimate casual summer beach or pool outfit.
Final Tips for Summer Style
Summer dressing is all about lightweight fabrics, breathable layers, and balancing comfort with style. Stick to natural fibers like cotton, linen, and blends that wick sweat and allow airflow. Keep colors light and patterns fun to match the season’s energy.
Don’t forget the accessories — sunglasses, hats, and watches elevate simple outfits without adding heat.
With these 21 outfit ideas, you’re set to stay cool, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish all summer long.