Typically, a short-sleeved white shirt falls into the category of “essentials” or “staples” – those dependable pieces that you’ll throw on time and again throughout summer, even if they aren’t the sort to stir your loins. But a typical white shirt this is not. Instead, Swedish label Séfr has remixed the blueprint with an intricate crochet pattern, which adds a level intrigue without compromising on wearability. It’s endlessly versatile, too, with an accomodating fit that makes it a shoo-in for layering over T-shirts and tank tops. That said, there’s no shame in skipping the base layers entirely and baring a little skin – it’s the right season for it, after all.

As for the rest of your outfit? This piece might exude romanticism, but rather than go full Mr Harry Styles with floaty palazzo pants, there’s fun to be had in playing with punkish contrasts. Try, for example, these sculptural D-frame shades by Kimeze and Bottega Veneta’s directional padded leather sandals. Acne Studios’ straight-leg black Prop trousers go with just about anything (and any season), but their down-to-earth canvas finish makes them a brilliant counterpoint for all the whimsy up top. Then all that’s left is to garnish with subtly impactful accessories such as silver hardware by Ellie Mercer and Bottega’s Intrecciato crossbody in a subdued shade of green.

Denim might be Nudie Jeans’ bread and butter, but don’t be fooled – the environmentally minded Scandi label has oodles more to offer than its name suggests. Case in point, this boxy-cut cotton-crochet shirt that harks to retro bowling styles, but likewise couldn’t feel more of the moment. It’s a knockout number in its own right. And, should temperatures drop, it can be sandwiched between vests, chore jackets and all your other lightweight layers. Better yet, slip it over this striped Mr P. tee, which picks up on the hue and pattern while adding a little extra dimension.

Elsewhere, it’s best to lean into the laid-back, homespun feel of the focal piece and keep things casual. Here, we’ve opted for Carhartt WIP’s wide-leg vintage-style jeans (note: more universally flattering than skinny fits) and Nike’s Blazer Low leather basketball sneaker. That said, even your weekend wear could benefit from an accessory or three to liven things up a little and keep your outfit from looking flat. Take the colour-coordinated route with Cutler and Gross’ smoky teal aviators, an outdoorsy messenger in navy from Porter-Yoshida & Co and a touch of topaz via Miansai’s gem-studded silver ring.

Crochet weaves its way throughout the spring-summer collection of Piacenza Cashmere, a heritage label that relies on the same artisanal techniques and attention to detail that’ve kept the lights on for 14 generations. Our top pick is this striped open-knit shirt, which is spun from a breathable cotton and arrives in delectable pastels. And don’t be put off by the pink, here – it’s a softer, more wearable take on the shade that’s balanced out by all the cream. In short, it’s miles away from the Barbiecore that’s doing the rounds right now. Likewise, accompanying it with pared-back pieces in subdued colourways will ensure it stays low-key and tastefully so.

Our advice: allow Piacenza’s intricate artisanry to shine with un-shouty yet achingly luxurious accompaniments. Namely, try Ralph Lauren Purple Label’s straight-leg cream trousers, which are engineered from a sumptuous silk and linen-blend and read several rungs up from the standard white jean. In the eyewear department, it doesn’t get much more high-end than Jacques Marie Mage, and these thick-framed Japan-made shades will add urbanite polish to whatever you pair them with. Top it all off with a full-grain leather SAINT LAURENT tote in an unassuming beige and the old-world elegance of Cartier’s Ballon Bleu automatic watch.