Shirts and Bottoms: Easy Pieces That Will Help You Stay Cool in the Heat
Despite PAGASA reminding Filipinos that, yes, technically, there is no such thing as summer in the country, experience proves otherwise. How else do you explain the heatwave and humidity that is now here?
The season of light sweaters and windbreakers is out, and we’re faced with the reality of having to dress up for balmy, tropical temperatures. Given the surge in temperature, dressing in lightweight clothing may be more of a necessity than an actual choice, but there is a way to do it in style.
Here, we gathered the best pieces for a smart and stylish summer.
TOPS
120%
This shirt contains all the elements of a quintessential summer shirt: Its camp-collar style suggests dreams of holiday trips and weekend drives, while its tropical print is very much in season. It’s also made of linen, which is one of the best fabrics you can wear in this weather.
Bottega Veneta
Meanwhile, for a summer-ready piece without the overt tropical references, turn to this breezy white cotton shirt with abstract streaks in black. Wear with black trousers for a more polished look or tuck the shirt into chinos to evoke a smarter style.
Polo Ralph Lauren
And for some seriously sharp dressing, take note of this classic button-down shirt in navy. Instead of the usual oxford cloth, it’s done in poplin, a loose and lightweight weave that will keep you cool under the sun. The fabric also features a smooth, wrinkle-free appearance and a subtle sheen.
Folk
If you’ve adopted an industrial workwear aesthetic that relies on layers of dense, heavy fabrics like denim and leather, the dry season can be a drag. Switch to classic T-shirts like this light gray piece in cool cotton. The tee is stylish on its own, but feel free to throw on a chambray shirt and lightweight chinos for less scorching days.
BOTTOMS
Uniqlo
Lightweight shirts call for an equally breathable pair of bottoms. Sport a pair of these linen-blend shorts for smart casual days—if they get wrinkled, it’s all part of the charm.
Ralph Lauren
Known for its signature pastel stripes, seersucker can be a little intimidating for men who aren’t as adventurous in their style. Take baby steps and wear the breathable fabric as shorts. Pair this with a lightweight button-down, a piqué shirt, or a streamlined cotton tee.
Altea
White adds casual elegance to any piece. Case in point, these trousers in a linen-twill blend exude stylishness, especially when paired with a piqué shirt or a button-down. The mismatched buttons also add just the slightest hint of whimsy—a complement to the no-frills attitude of summer.
