Making a stunning comeback for 2025, the humble polo shirt is suddenly the height of cool once again. Some, such as those at Jil Sander and Loro Piana, are buttonless at the neck, making them the perfect laid-back alternative to an open-neck shirt. While others, like those at Bottega Veneta, keep the classic, more structured shape, but come in sumptuous fabrics, and are designed to be worn alone as more of a statement 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 – courtesy of SAINT LAURENT, Burberry and Montblanc – 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 constant source of excellent overshirts.

For a few years now, the camp-collar shirt has been a go-to for guys looking for easy summer style. And fair enough, because as the likes of Kardo prove, 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 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 the likes of these Mr P. jeans do look especially good under the sun. And preferably on vacation.

Perhaps the most essential of all essentials, the classic white tee 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), Kingsman (dusty green), and Boglioli (cream). 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, Jacques Marie Mage has some of the best (note the turquoise stones at the tips – a key styling detail). 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. And Grenson, a cornerstone of British loafing, 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.