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27 Summer Shirts That'll Keep You Cool in More Ways Than One
When the temperature is soaring, the right shirt is absolutely critical.
The best summer shirts aren't one size fits all. They come in a range of cuts, prints, fabrics—what have you. It really depends on what you’re going to be doing, where you’re going, and who you’re going with. To wit: If date night for two is in the cards, you might want to bypass a white tee. In the same vein, playing ball in the park need not require a designer short-sleeve button-up. Not even A-Rod would do that. Like all things, the right shirt for the sunny months is all relative.
Still, every ideal summer shirt should have certain qualities. First and foremost is a lightweight material. Avoid anything heavy or non-breathable; that’s a no-brainer, but it bears repeating. Think cotton, linen, and even terrycloth. Natural fibers are best, because they allow for maximum breathability and feel better on the skin in the sweltering heat.
Next on the docket is the sleeve length. What characterizes a summer shirt over, say, a shirt for any other season is the fact that the sleeves are short. Sure, you can opt for something that offers full coverage—and if you choose to roll it up, great—but a shirt for summer it is not. It’s really about showing off your forearms and, let’s be real, the new watch that has been lying dormant underneath your cuff for longer than it should. It’s time to let that bad boy shine.
Last is color. Dark hues absorb light and, by extension, heat, which is why it is best to stick to a lighter palette. A great tropical or floral pattern will also help you get into the summer spirit. (More about that here.)
Once you factor in these three essential traits, the world is your oyster. From the camp shirt to the classic polo, we've rounded up the 27 best summer shirts that are going to bring the heat. Or beat it. Your choice.
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Polo Ralph Lauren Solid Cotton Polo Shirt
Polo Ralph Lauren Solid Cotton Polo Shirt
When it comes to polos, it doesn’t get any more classic than the brand with "polo" right there in the name.
Lululemon Fundamental T-Shirt
Lululemon Fundamental T-Shirt
The name says it all.
Vuori Seaport Button Down
Vuori Seaport Button Down
Like everything else from Vuori, the performance fabric makes for comfortable wear in all conditions. This moisture-wicking and quick-drying shirt is going to prevent you from racking up the sweat stains on those extra-hot days.
Bonobos Stretch Riviera Short Sleeve Shirt
Perfect for a yacht—beer in one hand, canapé in the other.
Ben Sherman Signature Resort Print Shirt
Ben Sherman Signature Resort Print Shirt
If it says "resort print," then you must book a trip to a resort and wear it there. It's basically an order.
Everlane The No-Sweat Polo
Everlane The No-Sweat Polo
There's a reason this shirt got its name, and we think it's pretty obvious. But just in case you're a little out of it today, the moisture-wicking material is going to keep you dry all summer long.
Nautica Short-Sleeve Pocket T-shirt
Nautica Short-Sleeve Pocket T-shirt
A simple summer crew neck, with a pocket for little extra fun.
Oliver Spencer Havana Camp-Collar Striped Linen Shirt
Oliver Spencer Havana Camp-Collar Striped Linen Shirt
Stripes and linen are a match made in heaven.
Golden Goose Short-Sleeved Shirt
Golden Goose Short-Sleeved Shirt
A boxy fit and camp collar create a retro vibe. And where is the iconic Golden Goose star you might ask? Two gold-tone stars adorn the back, just below the nape of the neck.
Fair Harbor The Ravello Terry Polo
Fair Harbor The Ravello Terry Polo
With sustainability at its core, Fair Harbor goes off to create a terry polo that's just as sophisticated as it is practical. And it's made from four recycled water bottles.
Alexis Zambrano x Tombolo Martini Cabana Shirt
Alexis Zambrano x Tombolo Martini Cabana Shirt
I mean, doesn't this martini shirt just scream "summer"?
Percival Meal Deal Tapestry Cuban Shirt
Percival Meal Deal Tapestry Cuban Shirt
This is one of the coolest shirts around town, and it's to no surprise that it's from Percival. The all-over graphic embroidery takes this linen button-down into a whole new world.
Southern Gents SG Camp Collar Shirt
Southern Gents SG Camp Collar Shirt
Choose from 21 whimsically eclectic prints for a camp shirt that makes a statement. Southern Gents recommends pairing with a fedora. Don't take that advice, but do take the shirt.
OAS Cotton Terry Jacquard Shirt
OAS Cotton Terry Jacquard Shirt
Why carry around a beach towel when you can just wear one? This terry shirt is functional and fashionable.
Casablanca Tennis Players Linen Camp Shirt
Casablanca Tennis Players Linen Camp Shirt
Playful luxury is a Casablanca speciality, and it shows in this shirt. Whether you play tennis or not, this shirt will make you feel sporty. And isn't that enough?
The neutral sand hue of this perforated shirt will go with just about any color of chinos you could imagine. Yes, even burnt umber.
Drake's Striped Shirt
Good luck finding a shirt that feels more like summertime than this. We'll wait.
Todd Snyder Italian Cotton Ribbed Polo Sweater
Todd Snyder Italian Cotton Ribbed Polo Sweater
If you want to try a polo with flavor, this guy—with some Italian seasoning—is mighty tasty.
Nahmias Tie-Dye Silk-Blend Camp Shirt
Nahmias Tie-Dye Silk-Blend Camp Shirt
Summer camp arts and crafts, but make it fashion. Nahmias knows how to bring the nostalgia.
Buck Mason Pima Short Classic Tee
Buck Mason Pima Short Classic Tee
Ah, yes. The classic T-shirt. A true summer staple.
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