M&S ICONS
SUMMER WARDROBE FOUNDATIONS
These six wear-forever items should be in every man’s capsule wardrobe
The linen-blend overshirt
A summer capsule wardrobe should consist of high-quality essentials to keep you looking cool when it’s hot. Trust us, an overshirt will rapidly become one of the hardest working items in your summer wardrobe. Top of our wish list is this easy iron overshirt, made from a responsibly sourced linen blend. The fabric is moisture wicking to keep you comfortable and fresh, no matter how hot it gets.
A relaxed fit means the linen overshirt is ideal for summer layering. Pop over T-shirts and shirts as a final layer on summer evenings. Utilitarian but with a smart edge, a linen overshirt lends a casual outfit a more polished edge and works for almost any occasion, from work to date night. For a fresh summer outfit, try a tonal look. Wear the cream linen overshirt with trousers in a similar tone, like these straight fit jeans in ecru. Finish with comfy leather sandals and you’ll be good to go.
The short-sleeved shirt
You’ll wear a short-sleeve short all summer long, so it’s worth investing in a good one. This shirt is crafted from pure linen: great for long hot evenings at home or on holiday. Smart details, like the revere collar, button fastenings, and pocket detail add some instant polish to your look.
Choose from five on-trend colours, including green, ecru, and orange. For a fresh warm weather look, pair the short-sleeved shirt with our Autograph cotton-linen shorts. If you’re not sure if you can get away with wearing shorts to the office, our super lightweight chinos are a clever alternative and will look smart with the short-sleeved shirt. Coolmax technology transports heat away from the body to keep you cool, so you won’t overheat. Easy summer style, sorted.
The go-to trainers
Trainers have rapidly become our default footwear: comfortable, cool, and instantly stylish. Our lace-up trainers have sports grade cushioning for extra comfort and Freshfeet technology to combat odours.
A chunky sole and mixed textures create added interest, but these kicks retain a sleek, minimalist finish. Roll up chinos or jeans and wear with statement socks to really show them off. If you need a smart casual look, use trainers to add a relaxed edge to formal trousers.
The smart polo shirt
We all need those pieces that add a touch of everyday luxury to your wardrobe, whatever the season. Refine your summer outfits with our smart polo shirt, which is made with responsibly sourced cotton for a super soft feel. The knitted finish, zip neck and contrast detail on the hem and cuffs elevate this piece above your average polo shirt, making it perfect for smarter occasions.
We’ll be wearing the smart polo shirt with our Autograph straight fit trousers, which are made from a luxe Italian fabric. Finish the look with the go-to trainers or smart shoes, depending on the dress code. Throw the linen overshirt over the top and you’ve got a classic warm weather look.
The linen blend shorts
Stay cool but look sharp in our linen blend shorts, which are comfortable and perfect for the summer months. The combination of linen and the tailored design make these shorts a more polished alternative to cotton or denim options, so you’ll look the very best version of you.
Wear the linen blend shorts in a neutral shade, like stone, with the revere shirt in a bright shade for a vibrant look that will pop in the sunshine. The shorts are also a great option to have in your wardrobe if you want to dress up a casual summer top: we’ve got our eye on this colourful stripe T-shirt. Sunburn isn’t a good look on anyone, so don’t forget to add a baseball cap and sunglasses if you’re going to be outside for long periods. And if you’re jetting off, check out our Holiday Shop.
The ultimate chinos
We’ve called these the ultimate chinos – and for good reason. Crafted from responsibly sourced cotton, they’re made with four way stretch to keep you comfortable all day long.
A true wardrobe staple, you’ll wear the ultimate chino all year round. The slim fit is contemporary without being too form fitting. For summer, we like the dark bronze colourway for a neutral option that goes with pretty much anything and can be dressed up or down, depending on where you’re heading. Wear them on the weekend with a T-shirt and an overshirt, or at work with a linen blazer.
Looking for more staples for your capsule wardrobe? Check out our guide to the first drop of our M&S Icons for more wear-forever pieces.
Words: Emily Sutherland
