Making a stunning comeback for 2025, the humble polo is suddenly the height of cool once again. Keep yours classic, but in sumptuous fabrics, and wear it as a statement piece. Take your pick from the likes of Jil Sander, TOM FORD, Loro Piana and FEDELI, who each have their own elevated take on this piece.

Whatever your budget, the backpack is still a serious go-everywhere summer essential. You could go luxe, with something in leather by the likes of TOM FORD or Bleu de Chauffe, or go technical, with a sportier finish from Porter-Yoshida & Co. Or you could opt for Gucci’s version, which is both luxe and sporty at the same time. The key style for summer 2025 is the classic domed shape, but tie-up, kit bag-style shapes are worth a look, too.

One can never truly rely on the British climate, which is why any summer fit should take a light jacket into consideration. You don’t need anything crazy, just something to take the edge off when the evening chill sets in. Brunello Cucinelli has a fine selection of denim jackets, while the likes of Oliver Spencer and Corridor are a reliable source of excellent overshirts. And then there’s the trusty Harrington – look no further than Paul Smith.

For a few years now, the camp-collar shirt has been a go-to for guys looking for easy summer style. And fair enough, from Kardo to KAPITAL, they work in a range of fabrics and finishes, for a range of builds (if in doubt, go for a boxier fit). That said, short-sleeved shirts with a classic collar are making a comeback. Wear yours – perhaps this striped style from De Bonne Facture – with straight-leg denim and black shades.

Not usually considered a summer essential, but let’s be serious here, when do you not need a great pair of jeans? The trick with summer denim is to keep it on the wide side, such as this regular-cut (and Consciously Crafted) pair by Nudie Jeans, because skinny and slim fits can get a little too hot. White denim is not a summer-only style move, but these A.P.C. jeans do look especially good under the sun. And preferably on vacation.

Perhaps the most essential of all essentials, the classic white T-shirt is unbeatable. But not all are made equal. In the summer, it’s about heat management, so look for lighter-than-average fabrics such as linen and silk – this ZEGNA tee is ideal – or at least a lightweight cotton. Massimo Alba is a great source for that. And if it’s T-shirt weather, consider a print: LOEWE and Our Legacy both offer graphic tees that whisper rather than shout.

One of the best things about summer is the opportunity to indulge in linen tailoring, because it’s only ever worn when you’re having fun. And when it comes to linen, the name of the game is “colour”. So, while navy and grey have their place, explore the spectrum of bold linen tailoring, courtesy of brands such as Mr P. (burgundy), Canali (dusty green), Boglioli (cream) and De Petrillo (brown). If you do like to keep it low-key, Brunello Cucinelli offers charcoal pinstripe linen, too.

The role of a good pair of sunglasses can never be overstated, but for this summer, it’s crucial to get the vibe right. For 2025, it’s all about vintage-looking, steezy frames. The kind of thing you might find on the nose of a 1970s racing driver. Unsurprisingly, CELINE HOMME has some of the best. And Prada Eyewear has a pair of square frames that are just itching to be worn with a leather jacket and wide-leg trousers.

Even the simplest of summer outfits can be finessed, but you need to get the details right. A simple gold necklace (by David Yurman, perhaps), a classic signet ring (M.Cohen’s is a timeless choice), or maybe a steel sports watch, such as IWC Schaffhausen’s Ingenieur Automatic 40mm. Based on the 1970s design by watchmaking icon Gérald Genta, it recently underwent a subtle makeover. It still looks great, even if just with a T-shirt and jeans.

Loafer season is upon us and classic penny silhouettes are having a moment. Sebago is still the best source for the traditional, low-slung shape – adored by the likes of Paul Newman and Miles Davis. However, Japanese-American brand Yuketen is the place to go for an elevated, handmade feel – also from our Consciously Crafted edit. And Manolo Blahnik has a mega pair of beige suede pennies that would be just the ticket for a summer wedding. Or with white socks and shorts for an amble around town.