Grooming -- 1 day ago
Words: Gentleman's Journal
Words: Gentleman's Journal
It’s finally beginning to heat up outside, and the wider world – from the Maldives to the Med – is ready to welcome jet-setters once again, following a long and seemingly endless period of gloom. And it’s not a minute too soon; we were starting to worry that all those new sunglasses and citrus-heavy scents we’ve been collecting would go unused. Thankfully, June is on the doorstep, and, so, we’ll be off on our high-climes sojourns within a flash.
With this in mind, and with everything from far-flung infinity pools to local lidos opening up once again, we need swimwear now more than at any other time in the year. And Gentleman’s Journal has rounded up the best to buy now, from unembellished options to bright, bold alternatives. So, go on – dive in and make a splash…
Made from recycled polyester from Portugal, London-based label Abtany is doing great things with its swimwear. And with an all-over print, which is a hand painted Talar artwork inspired by the Persian architecture from the city of Tehran, these are the kind of shorts that won't just turn heads when you're by the pool, but will actually get people wading over to ask you where they're from.
Let’s begin with something that’s a failsafe for most men: the classic navy option. And few individuals have had as much experience dipping in and out of the sea in perfectly formed trunks than model David Gandy – so, naturally, we look to his label to sort us out with this beachside fundamental. Though we could talk longingly and lovingly about the fuss-free design (the contrasting white drawstring appears to be the only embellishment), its pared-down look belies the fact that, perhaps more importantly, the material offers UV protection, and is also crafted from polyamide yarn, which, in other words, means that if/when they hit landfill, they’ll biodegrade in just a few years.
Sunspel made its name in the early days for its boxer shorts (it was the first brand to do them in the UK in 1947), and it further proves its cut-offs worth with these swim shorts. Cut mid length leg, the shorts are manufactured using an upcycled marine plastic from SEAQUAL®, made from waste plastic recovered from the oceans. They also look pretty good.
Celebrated for its playful prints, vibrant hues and all-round superlative swimwear, we, of course, have to turn to Orlebar Brown in this shortlist. The Setter shorts offer a more tailored fit (the shaped waistband, concealed snap closure and the label’s signature side fasteners allow for an extremely well-cut silhouette), and the quick-drying recycled polyamide from which it’s made has a touch that sits somewhere between lustrous and substantial. Additionally, because it cuts close to the thigh, we recommend pairing it with something equally as sharp – a Sunspel T-Shirt and minimalist sneakers will do the job when bar-hopping in Lisbon.
Named after a small coastal village in Mallorca, The Deia is anything but minuscule when it comes to aesthetics, its vibrant, imaginative pattern – waves of black, pink and blues – a fine statement for the season of sartorial expression. What we appreciate most is that though the style is a little eye-catching, it’s all honed in by the neutral blue spine that runs throughout, meanwhile the slim-look and single buckle create a refined, sophisticated feel that anchors the bold scheme.
Finally, for something that is, once again, a slight change from the ocean of beige and tan-coloured cargo trunks seen in marinas around the world, Love Brand & Co.’s creation – which is done out in a punchy pink – has a look that will shimmer against the heat. It’s made with a slightly more relaxed fit than the options above, so may be better suited for those who prefer not to be too confined by their wears, and, better still, it’s produced from 100 per cent recycled fabric.
Made from a soft, brushed Italian fabric that is quick-drying, Ripa Ripa's shorts are the sort of product that will take you from sea to beach club with ease. They have a straight fit, which means they're passable as normal shorts, while two pockets make them ideal for carrying your belongings in. Colour-wise, a deep burgundy hue gives them a subtle edge.
Mr Marvis is a brand that is all about easy comfort. Meet The Seersucker Swims Nautics are cut from quick-dry seersucker fabric woven with polyamide and organic cotton, while they feature a soft mesh lining for comfort and security. Featuring a classic stripe for a nautical touch, these are the swimmers that'll get you through any sun-drenched break.
Constructed from lightweight fast-drying recycled-polyester, Paul Smith's black swim shorts feature's the designer's classic Zebra logo. Cut slightly higher than most shorts, these have a Seventies flare about them that nods to the era Smith often finds inspiration in.
If you're after a pattern that is eye-catching, but tasteful, Frescobol Carioca is your brand. Inspired by Rio de Janeiro, these semi-tailored shorts come with an all-over bespoke Lotus print, which is an abstraction of the delicate organic shapes of the Lotus flower.
With these subtle Reiss swim shorts, side adjusters ensure a comfortable, personalised fit, while side slip pockets enhance practicality. The best bit? They're good enough to wear from the pool to dinner.
The Nautics swim shorts are Mr Marvis' signature go-to for poolside style. The bright blue and white striped men's swim shorts are cut from quick-dry seersucker fabric woven with polyamide and organic cotton and like with other Mr Marvis products, comfort comes first. An elasticated waistband and a soft mesh lining make these a delight to pull on.
For a retro-vibing pair of shorts, these Polo Ralph Lauren swimmers are a winner. Made from quick-drying fabric with a mesh lining for comfort in and out of the water, they're dyed a Coastal Beige hue, which give them a definitively Eighties feel to them.
Your holiday should be a time to get experimental with your clothing, and that includes your swimwear. These coral and beige Fendi shorts are bright and bold, and will be the envy of your friends.
Want more hot-weather content? These are the best SPF products to buy now…
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