Let’s get something straight: these may be essentials; but they’re far from basics. They aren’t your throwaway T-shirts, or your wear-once swim shorts. They aren’t the linen shirts that lose all shape after the first wash, or the shoes that’ll only see one summer. Far from it. These are the essentials that you buy once, and then bring out every summer for the rest of your life. 

They’re pricey — but worth every penny. They are investments; clothes and accessories with the finest stitching, the sleekest tailoring and the highest reputations. They are homespun and homegrown; the British style essentials every gentleman deserves this summer…

Crafted in the British brand’s Gloucester workroom, this classic linen shirt is one of your most essential summer staples. With Turnbull & Asser’s signature collar and cuff, it buttons up along that tricky-to-navigate smart-casual line.

A new addition to our wardrobes for summer 2021, this latest tassel loafer from the heritage shoemaker is made from fine snuff suede. Unlined and breathable, it’s a light, flexible design — that features Crockett & Jones’ new SUPERFLEX leather sole. 

In a sufficiently ocean-blue ‘Aqua’ colour, this simple, sporty ‘Mayfair’ watch from Bamford is summer on your wrist. The case is crafted from high-impact polymer, is water resistant to 100 metres — and contains an ultra-reliable Miyota quartz movement.

Summer is a season made for lounging. That’s why you need to be pulling on and drawing the string on Oliver Spencer’s ridiculously comfortable ‘House Jersey’ shorts. Wear them in the garden; wear them to bed; wear them all summer long. 

Whereas the Turnbull & Asser shirt above has a formal edge, this striped option from SIRPLUS was made to be left untucked in the summer heat. Leave as many buttons undone as you see fit — and enjoy the subtle pattern in well-ventilated style. 

No summer style list is complete without a pair of plush swim shorts. From Orlebar Brown, the ‘Bulldog’ style has been top dog in British swimwear since its introduction late last decade. With a tailored fit, quick-drying fabric and signature sidefasteners, we can see why. 

A little less formal than Crockett & Jones’ tassel loafers above, these leather-laced ‘Docksides’ boat shoes from Russell & Bromley shriek summer. Unlined, slip-resistant and cut from brown waxy leather, they’ll look as good at a garden party as they will aboard a superyacht. 

Whether you’re attending a race meet in England or dressing up for an evening on the French Riviera, every discerning gentleman needs a good Panama. With its tobacco-brown suede band, this Lock & Co classic is a high-grade toquila-palm delight. 

The perfect pair of summer sunglasses can be slipped on with any outfit, for any occasion. From Cubitts, the understated ‘Herbrand’ design is round, dark — and does a handsome job at shielding you from the rays in British-born style. 

Boat shoes are important. Loafers are essential. But plain, reliable white sneakers are perhaps the most imperative pair of shoes you’ll slip on all summer. From Cheaney, the ‘Kelham’ is an excellent choice; stitched together in Sheffield from off-white leather. 

We’re not usually ones for simple T-shirts. But then Connolly’s classic cashmere & silk design is far from simple. Delicate, lightweight and ideal for summer heatwaves, its versatility is owed to that rich navy colour; allowing it to be worn with sweats and suits alike.

Speaking of jackets, here’s one of our favourites — from New & Lingwood. Unlike some of the brand’s more flamboyant offerings, it’s another garment that benefits from a simple navy shade. Elegantly cut and with understated notch lapels, it’ll be your smart summer salvation. 

Whether you call them ‘tennis shorts’, ‘swim shorts’ or just simple, cheerful, colourful ‘shorts’, Hackett’s turquoise, drawstring staples are breathable enough to bomb around in all summer long. And, at Bicester Village, they’re just a fraction of their original price. 

We never tend to class bright, bold colours as ‘essentials’. But this hand-sewn, obscenely orange shirt from Emma Willis is as essential as summer styles come. The collar is hand-trimmed, the seams single-needle-stitched — and the result as eye-catching as it is well-made.

The final of our four footwear inclusions; the humble, timeless desert boot. From Edward Green, the ‘Shanklin’ shoe is the ultimate unlined Chukka; perfect for almost any off-duty summer look. Those slim soles — comfortable yet durable — are the selling point. 

Certain pieces of menswear — like those handsome desert boots above — will live forever. Perennially retro and unashamedly vintage, the timeless safari jacket is one such garment. From Savile Row’s Huntsman, this option is 100% linen — and therefore ideal for summer. 

Because you should never neglect your accessories. A woven belt, for reasons unknown, has become a surefire, undisputed indicator of the season; a talisman of hot weather, buckled up to signify summer’s arrival. This hardy example from Awling features brass hardware and Italian leather. 

If it’s good enough for 007, it’s good enough for you. The Riviera Polo was whipped up by Sunspel over fifteen years ago for Daniel Craig’s James Bond — and has since become the cornerstone of the British brand’s breathable, lightweight summer collection. 

Some occasions call for a cap. Your Panama may be chic and sophisticated, but a baseball cap offers a practical alternative. However, there are still luxury options. Thom Sweeney’s lightweight linen design is our favourite; devoid of detailing and fashioned with a flex-fit band.

It’s not quite plain white — there’s a subtle elephant embroidered on the chest — but LOVE BRAND & Co’s fine organic cotton T-shirt is the perfect summer staple. And, thanks to recycled labels and tags, it’s also an environmentally conscious essential. 

Want more seasonal style inspiration? Here’s Johannes Huebl’s guide to a stylish summer…

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