Linen is surely the first thing that comes to mind when you think of summer fabrics. And for good reason: it’s breathable, it’s lightweight and it has that laid-back, leisurely feel that we all associate with summer. But you could say the same about silk, which makes us wonder why it isn’t often mentioned in the same breath. Luxury designers such as The Row and LOEWE are looking to shift that perception this summer by offering up a seriously desirable selection of silk shirts and shorts. Try doubling up for pyjama-like comfort.

LOEWE doesn’t miss when it comes to laid-back summer style, so it’s no surprise to see the Spanish luxury brand making an appearance on this list. A pair of silk-faille shorts decorated with tropical fish is a heck of a statement under normal circumstances. But if you’re spending the day next to the pool, then it suddenly makes a lot of sense, especially if you double up with the matching long-sleeved T-shirt. Oh, and if you’re in the market for a lilo – and why wouldn’t you be? – do check out Oliver James.

Vilebrequin is synonymous with summer on the French Riviera. Take a stroll along the promenade in its native Saint-Tropez and you’re sure to spot a pair (or three) of its signature vibrantly coloured swim shorts. Compared to the sea turtles, lobsters, and tropical fruit that typically decorate Vilebrequin’s shorts, this pair – in a pastel-yellow tie-dye print – are positively low-key. Wear them with one of the brand’s navy-blue linen shirts for a reliable poolside combo this summer.

We’re travelling from the south of France to Copacabana, home of Frescobol Carioca, a beachwear brand named after the popular bat-and-ball game, frescobol, and Carioca, a colloquial term for an inhabitant of Rio de Janeiro. Its range of swim shorts – with patterns inspired by the mosaic tiling designed by landscape architect Mr Roberto Burle Marx, which decorates the Copacabana promenade – are not to be missed, but our pick of the season is this retro-inspired knitted shirt.

Hailing from Seoul, South Korea, and new to MR PORTER this season, Merely Made is a casualwear brand specialising in generous silhouettes and high-quality fabrics. These shorts, in a white cotton fabric with a subtle leaf-patterned Jacquard detail, are one of our highlights of the season. And since white and blue go so well together, we’ve decided to style them with a lightweight chambray jacket from the Brighton brand Story Mfg.