A black pair is likely to look more sophisticated—classics like Havaianas will do the job perfectly—while European brands from Cos to Massimo Dutti have released more elevated takes on the style, in premium materials.
Canvas Cruisers
We know we’re not breaking any news here, but we’re not trying to. If anything, we’re just reminding you how great canvas sneakers are, and how well they go with all the things you’d normally want to wear during the dog days. These days, we’re into styles inspired by classic military trainers, which typically come with a thicker rubber sole. Not only do they look smarter, they’ll also be less likely to pick up scuffs, dust marks, and pavement stains.
For the most authentic shape, look towards the Japanese brand Reproduction of Found, a brand that sensitively remakes classic military sneakers. But it’s also worth looking at makes like Novesta, which has been perfecting its canvas footwear since the 1930s. Of course, you could also do a lot worse than an iconic pair of classic Vans Authentics.
Free-Heelin’ Mules
Some would contend that it’s always mule season, but on smarter occasions, a pair of backless shoes makes a canny alternative to your regular black lace-ups. If that sounds a little outré, just think of it this way: it’s the slightly smartened-up version of the Birkenstock clogs that guys wear all summer long. There’s a reason why the most stylish men working in menswear (including the new Tom Ford creative director, Haider Ackermann) have made them a signature. By freeing the heel, mules also capture the insouciance of summertime well—and in an unserious season, it’s hard to take yourself too seriously when you can walk out of your shoes.
A wider pair of pants is the best partner – ideally, a pleated pair, which will lend the whole look an Armani-esque breeziness. Frankly, though, they’d look equally killer with a pair of light-wash, turned-up jeans.
Lighter Loafers
Any pair of loafers will, of course, see you through the summer perfectly well: they’re pretty much optimised for warm-weather dressing. But it’s worth considering adding in a pair that’ll feel summer-specific. That means lighter colourways, a woven construction, and some unexpected fabrications.
Look for craftier textures: a pair made in raffia, suede, or woven leather will freshen up everything you wear, and look more appropriate than the classic thick black leather. Pair them with shorts, pair them with suits, pair them with linen pants.
Born-Again Boat Shoes
Whether boat shoes are actually trending or just the product of algorithmic propaganda is almost irrelevant at this point, because a lot of them are really good. The classics are classic-ing, the riffs are solid and there’s been some true weirdo DNA injected into the genre in recent years, which we’re not mad about in the slightest.
As for what to look for, you have two routes: opt for the tried-and-true classics from OG boat shoe brands like Timberland, Sebago, or Quoddy. Or look for fashion-led tweaks on the style—say, we’re French designer Jacquemus’ suede iteration. Either way, all that’s missing is the side part and a sweater tied around your shoulders.
Heat-Beating Huaraches
If the prospect of “toes out” makes you feel uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Thankfully, there’s a neat alternative in the form of huaraches, the woven leather shoes based on traditional Mexican styles. A near-perfect summer shoe, they give the benefits of sandals (namely, ventilation and a beachy vibe) without requiring a pre-emptive pedicure.
Variations on the style are legion, but we’d advise keeping it simple: a slip-on, hard-soled pair in a rich shade of brown. Trust us when we tell you that almost every pair of pants, shorts, and jeans in your closet will look better with these anchoring them.
