Summer is a stylistic balancing act. You want to look good (obviously) but you also want to feel good, and that can be tough when temps approach triple digits. Since layering is out of the question, each individual piece you choose becomes even more important. Luckily, we turned to Megan Collins, the founder of Style Girlfriend, to help you out with those selections. This is what your girlfriend wants you to wear this summer when you’re hitting the beach.
Megan Collins is the founder of Style Girlfriend, a men’s lifestyle site that offers guys friendly advice from a female perspective. In addition to personal style, Style Girlfriend covers topics like food, fitness, travel, and home. We recommend signing up for the Style Girlfriend Newsletter to receive tips right in your inbox.
ambsn Pineapple Express Packable Swimsuit
If you’re looking to branch out with your style this summer, swimwear is the risk-free way to go bold. Pineapple prints? Sure. Trying a new inseam? Absolutely. Don’t be afraid to stray from the typical knee-length board shorts and venture into a 7-inch (or even a 5-inch!) style.
$60
Rivieras Slip-On Shoes
The ultimate summer shoe… next to sandals, sneakers, and boat shoes, that is. Maybe it’s that espadrilles are basically the beachy version of a smoking slipper, but something about them exudes the perfect mix of relaxed and refined.
$75
Five Four Club Coolidge Polo
PARTNERBecause you can’t stay on the beach forever. Throw this floral polo from Five Four Club on when it’s time to head from the riptide to the tiki bar.
$25
Linda Farrow for 3.1 Phillip Lim Sunglasses
Rooftop parties, garden picnics, beach hangouts: It’s officially the season of sunglasses (almost) all day, every day. Since you’ll likely be wearing sunglasses while making a first impression, show off your attention to detail with a unique pair of shades. I love how this traditional clubmaster style sunglasses features interesting wooden rims and a colored lens.
$232
Miansai Anchor on Leather Bracelet
Summer is prime time for all things nautical (but then again, when isn’t it a good time for nautical vibes?). Before you ask, yes, bracelets are more than okay for guys. The anchor is on-the-nose appropriate for the season, while the leather band keeps things masculine.
$65
Sundek Fixed Waistband Mid-Length Board Shorts
The bright days of summer make it easier for even the most color-shy guy. I’m consistently impressed by any guy willing to work a highlighter yellow. It’s fun, and it really highlights his confidence (wink, wink).
$129
Outerknown Spanish Tile Camp Shirt
Outerknown hails from surfer Kelly Slater, and its top priority is keeping you looking breezy and stylish all summer long. This camp collar shirt—a one piece collar without a collar band—gives off an ultra-relaxed vibe, just right for stylish surfer vibes.
$125
The Nova Round Towel
With a larger, round towel, there’s room for you, all your stuff, and even that bikini-clad new friend you chatted up in the shallow waves. The print is minimal yet interesting and the ample space means less sand ends up on you, rather than under you.
$60
Master-Piece Series Two Way Tote
What’s sturdy and versatile and red all over? You guessed it, this bad boy. Yes, it’s bright, but we promise you won’t look like you’re carrying your girlfriend’s bag (though, hey, it’s a chivalrous thing to do). The zip top will also keep most of the sand out of your clothes and phone.
$159
Tread Traveler Sunscreen
Ready for some earth-shattering news? Burnt-lobster-red skin isn’t the best look on a guy. This travel bottle clips onto any bag, so no excuse for not slopping on some SPF.
$6
Beams Plus Slim-Fitted Knitted Linen T-Shirt
On cooler nights, this knitted linen t-shirt will be your ultimate go-to. Throw it on over swim trunks when you head back to the cabana, or with chinos for an evening bonfire.
$110
