Everything changes when the weather gets warmer. The sun starts shining again. It finally feels good to go outside. Spring and summer are seasons designed for having fun in the great outdoors.
Are you ready to enjoy the season in style? If you're already working hard to maintain a solid grooming routine, it only makes sense that you want to dress your best too.
But the warm weather presents specific style challenges. How can you stay cool and still look great? What if you work in a cold, air conditioned office and then have to commute in the sweltering heat? Here are a few ways to deal - while still looking great.
Hot Weather, Cool Fabric
The #1 rule of cool summer style is wear cool, breathable fabrics. Some examples are cotton, merino wool, and linen. These natural fabrics keep your skin cool and won't weigh down your outfit. They breathe, allowing for moisture transfer. So when it gets hot and you start sweating, they wick moisture away from you body.
Does your job require you to wear a shirt and tie everyday? No problem. Go with lightweight cotton dress shirts during the summer. Many brands offer modern, slim cuts in cool cotton that look modern, dressy, and stylish but won't turn you into a sweaty mess. You may want to try out several brands to find the cut, style, and fabric that’s most comfortable for you.
For pants, look for summer weight trousers and chinos. You can keep your outfit as dressy as your workplace requires but still stay cool and comfortable. Keep in mind that some lightweight fabrics - especially linen - wrinkle easily and may require additional care.
Going Casual
If you have the freedom to dress a bit more casual at work, you have far more options. Not to mention that you don't have to wear a sweat-inducing necktie day in and day out. Lucky you.
Still, the rules for staying cool are about the same. Look for linen or cotton shirts that stay cool even when the temperature is through the roof. They can easily transition from work to dinner or drinks after no problem.
Remember that you don't want to go too casual - keep things stylish and go for a smart casual look, even during summer.
Getting Outside
When it comes to hanging out on the weekend, shorts are your best bet. They are literally made for the warm weather. Let those legs get some sunshine and fresh air!
But please, upgrade your style from those old cargo shorts you were rocking in college. It's time to step things up with tailored shorts. You don’t have to combine shorts with some childish print T-shirt. Go with a simple polo, henley, or button-up shirt to keep things stylish, even in shorts.
And guys... skip the crew socks with your shorts. Invest in no-show socks so you keep a clean, simple look with your summer footwear. Remember, flip-flops are for the beach and the backyard. Not out in public. Switch to boat shoes or white sneakers for the summer for a light, casual look that fits the season without making you look childish.
Mind the Sun
Don't forget to protect your skin from the sun during your outdoor activities. Sun damage is the #1 cause of wrinkles and age spots. So whenever you're going to spend 30 minutes or more outdoors, slather on the sunblock.
For daily use, we recommend our Daily Defense Face Moisturizer with SPF 20. Its formula ditches the sketchy chemical ingredients of must sunscreens. Instead it's made with zinc oxide for broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. Plus, it hydrates your skin with aloe vera, green tea, and vitamin E.
The sun can damage more than just your face. That's why you need an all-over sunblock for your outdoor adventures. Our Element Defense Moisturizer with SPF 45 is ideal. You won't find any harmful chemical SPF ingredients here - but you will enjoy the benefits of its zinc oxide, sunflower oil, vitamin E, and green tea blend.
What about the sun damage that's already been done? You can help reduce the appearance of photodamage with our Clearing Scar Cream. It leverages vitamin C, MSM, and powerful antioxidants to restore a balanced complexion and smooth out scarring and discoloration.
Enjoy the Summer in Style
Look and feel your best this summer. Upgrade your wardrobe with lightweight fabrics that keep you cool and comfortable even in the heat. And don't slip up on your skincare routine - especially when it comes to sun protection. That way you’ll enjoy the sunshine in style.
