We all know that the key to a strong summer look is a classic short-sleeved shirt. They offer plenty of opportunity for layering, and have a shelf life beyond the warmer season, and have a statement appeal beyond that of a T-shirt. Prints, patterns and cuts, we look at the best brands to pick up statement shirts from, and tell you ways to put it to best use in the season:
MESH MEETS EMBELLISHMENTS
Inspired by: Jared Leto
Where to wear: A fancy night out
How to style it: At Oscars 2022, Jared Leto turned heads in a contrasting textured black Gucci look that was finished with a heavy coat over his sheer embellished shirt. To try on a similar look this summer, look out for mesh shirts that come with intricate embellishments.
THE GOOD OL’ FLORAL
Inspired by: Timothée Chalamet
Where to wear: Brunch
How to style it: When it comes to experimenting with prints, Timothée Chalamet never holds back. We have seen him wearing floral on floral a number of times — and this blue and beige floral print screams summer. Not too overloaded with floral, it is a subtle print that can be incorporated into your everyday looks. Think pastel-hued Hawaiian shirts or bowling printed shirts paired with chinos or shorts, with chunky sneakers.
THE LOGOMANIA COMEBACK
Inspired by: Joe Jonas
Where to wear: At the movies
How to style it: Logomania is officially back. This trend has been gaining steam gradually for the past few years, but this season sees it hit an all-time high. A simple way to embrace logos is to opt for a simple T-shirt, the kind that will make people look twice—probably just to see what your T-shirt says, which is perfect for your logo-inspired outfit. If you are someone who wants to include minimal amount of logos, a way to approach this trend is with accessories.
GRAPHIC TURNOVER
Inspired by: Maluma
Where to wear: Dining out
How to style it: When it comes to graphic prints, it is best to stick with one print piece at a time and keep everything else dialled down. For a warm weather outfit, try mixing a graphic print shirt with a light-coloured suit. The suit keeps things sophisticated, while the shirt lets you express your personality. For an athleisure wear, a bold print track jacket paired with solid track pants and a pair of all-white sneakers is a pro move.
WATERCOLOUR HUES
Inspired by: Jaden Smith
Where to wear: At the bar
How to style it: Inspired by a reverence for waterways and oceans, and the ever-increasing need to save them, the watercolour hues evolve from SS22. These prints are inspired by the movement of water that comes in fluid patterns in tonal sea blues. These prints are easy to style as they make a statement themselves. Pick up a Y2K inspired multi-coloured print, and pair it with denim and Birkenstocks, and you’re ready for the night.