As we continue to ride the rollercoaster of a British summer - heatwaves may be out this week, but they'll return soon enough - the perennial question remains: how do you look good and feel cool at the same time?
We believe you can. In fact, the simplicity of the season’s menswear trends makes it easier than ever to assemble outfits that are not only breathable and comfortable, but effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re heading to the coast, the countryside, or the local beer garden, a refined t-shirt and shorts pairing is the foundation of warm-weather dressing done right.
What’s In This Season for T-Shirts?
This summer, the key word is restraint. Designers and leading menswear labels alike are leaning into clean silhouettes, pared-back colour palettes, and quality-first construction. In particular, t-shirts are taking a step back from loud logos and novelty prints in favour of solid, neutral tones - think stone, sage, navy, and off-white - with the occasional Breton stripe or soft marl for texture.
That’s not to say they’re basic. Luxury and designer brands are elevating the humble tee with premium cottons - such as long-staple Pima or breathable organic jersey - and carefully considered fits. The emphasis is on versatility: t-shirts that drape naturally, layer well, and wash beautifully.
Look out for finishing touches like self-bound collars, twin-needle stitching, or subtle branding on the hem - features that quietly signal quality construction.
The Role of Fit and Fabric
When it comes to t-shirts, fit is just as important as fabric. A modern slim or relaxed fit (depending on your build and preference) will flatter the body without clinging. Drop shoulders, slightly elongated hems, and boxier cuts are also popular this year, reflecting a more laid-back aesthetic seen across luxury menswear.
As for fabric, lighter weights are preferable in high summer, especially cotton-linen blends or mercerised cottons that allow air to circulate and moisture to evaporate. Heavier jersey fabrics still have their place but are often best reserved for cooler evenings or early autumn.
How to Style Shorts Properly
Pairing shorts with a tee might sound like a no-brainer, but there’s a fine line between laid-back elegance and looking like you've just raided your gym bag. The key lies in choosing the right shorts - tailored silhouettes, structured waistbands, and premium finishes are essential.
This season, chino-style shorts remain a staple. Cut just above the knee, they provide a smart-casual foundation that works with practically any tee. For off-duty looks, drawstring shorts in garment-dyed cotton or tencel offer a touch of relaxed luxury without veering into loungewear.
There’s also a growing interest in camp-collar and co-ord sets, where the tee and shorts are part of a matching or complementary set - ideal for holidays or high-summer weekends. Just keep the accessories simple: think espadrilles, canvas trainers, and a woven belt.
When It’s Too Hot for Layers…
T-shirt and shorts combinations have to work harder in the heat because there’s nowhere to hide. No jacket, no overshirt - just you and your basics. That’s why quality matters. Premium fabrics, good fit, and tasteful colour choices come together to create a look that’s confident without being try-hard.
And don’t forget the finishing touches. Sunglasses, a clean pair of loafers or sandals, and perhaps a fine-gauge knit thrown over the shoulders can turn a simple outfit into a statement.
Check out our curated selection of t-shirts and shorts for summer, featuring the very best from Belstaff, Eton, Fedeli and La Martina. Whether you’re packing for a beach holiday or simply planning a pub lunch in the sun, these combinations are designed to keep you looking sharp and feeling fresh.
Eton's light green Filo Di Scozia t-shirt
Created in smooth interlock jersey, this t-shirt is perfect for a late afternoon to evening engagement where you'll need some insulation as the sun goes down. It's available in a variety of colours, however we've chosen to highlight this lovely desaturated light green.
Paul & Shark - Tofu White Linen and Cotton Bermuda Shorts
These Paul & Shark shorts offer an airy cotton linen blend, along with a smattering of utility in the form of their buttoned pockets. Their neutral colouring also makes them a great choice to accompany almost every t-shirt in our range.
Fedeli - Beige Lana 140's Wool T-shirt
Ignore everything we've said about linen and cotton, as Fedeli's Lana wool t-shirt is here to rip up the rulebook. Offering moisture-wicking, temperature regulation and super-softness, it's a very different experience to the one most would imagine from wool in summer.
Fedeli - Beige Linen Tailored Bermuda Shorts
Indulge in this season's co-ord trend by adding Fedeli's beige shorts to your basket. These return to form with a linen construction, and a tailored silhouette that's smart-casual enough for evening wear. Don't feel obliged to co-ordinate, as, like the t-shirt above, they are also available in a range of other colours.
Belstaff - Magenta Jersey Cotton T-shirt
Add a little "pop" to your palette with Belstaff's t-shirt in magenta. Featuring an understated badge that demonstrates its pedigree, it pairs beautifully with La Martina's Bermuda shorts, featured below.
La Martina - Navy Vardan Regular Fit Cotton Twill Chino Shorts
Pair your tee with La Martina's Chino shorts to accent the magenta with a darker tone - although they are also available in beige and white. Featuring a subtle coin pocket, they offer a practical touch alongside their summer comfort.
In Summary
- Keep it simple – minimal branding, clean lines, and classic colours rule this summer.
- Prioritise quality – invest in breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and blends that feel soft and keep you cool.
- Choose your shorts wisely – structure and cut make all the difference.
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Let your basics do the work – with the right pieces, you won’t need layers or loud prints to stand out.
