Looking good in summer—how hard can it be? Less clothing = less effort, right?
Wrong.
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Every year, guys who kill it in the colder months start to fumble once the sun comes out. They default to the same tired combo: basic T-shirt, plain shorts, and beat-up sneakers—on repeat.
But that’s not you. You’re here to level up.
We’ve scanned the runways, decoded what actually works off the runway, and filtered the noise to bring you the biggest men’s fashion trends for summer 2025—from elevated neutrals to quiet gorpcore, linen staples, footwear shifts, and more.
Whether your vibe is clean and classic or bold and experimental, there’s something in here that’ll make you look like you know exactly what you’re doing. Let’s get into it.
Top Men’s Fashion Trends for Summer 2025
1. Elevated Neutrals Are Dominating
Forget loud prints—clean, minimal tones are taking over this summer. Think shades like stone, sand, bone, off-white, and muted taupe.
Why it works:
- They reflect sunlight (keeping you cool)
- Look effortlessly refined
- Match with everything
Recommended Brands:
Style it like this:
- Beige linen shirt + matching drawstring shorts
- Off-white tailored trousers + tank + open button-down
- Bone-colored tee + straight-leg chinos + leather sandals
The clean aesthetic vibe is big this year—elevated neutrals are the core.
2. Utility Cool: Safari Vibes with a Modern Twist
Utility and safari aesthetics are still in—but this year, it’s sleeker.
What to grab:
- Khaki overshirts with chest pockets
- Slim-fit tech cargos or camp shorts
- Earth-tone color palettes (olive, clay, tan)
- Leather sandals or canvas slip-ons
The trick is to channel function and polish—think less zookeeper, more “luxury adventurer.”
All-Black Summer Looks: Clean, Bold, Effortless
Wearing all black in summer isn’t just allowed—it’s a power move. When done right, it’s sleek, modern, and ridiculously easy to pull off. The key is lightweight fabrics, relaxed fits, and smart contrast in texture.
These fits work because they:
- Create a strong silhouette without needing color
- Showcase a lean or muscular physique
- Feel intentional, not lazy
Styling tips to make it work:
Add a subtle accessory: A black bucket hat, sunglasses, or bracelet rounds out the look without killing the vibe.
Go relaxed on top: Oversized or boxy black T-shirts, open short-sleeve shirts, or textured Cuban collars. Linen, seersucker, and breathable cotton are your best friends.
Keep the bottoms short and simple: 5–7″ black shorts with a clean hem add edge and show off your legs. Pair with running shorts, drawstring styles, or tailored chinos depending on the vibe.
Play with contrast in your footwear: Break up the all-black with white Crocs, beige sandals, or minimalist sneakers. No loud logos.
The Rise of Relaxed Linen Sets
If summer had a uniform, this would be it. Matching linen shirts and trousers in light, breathable shades are dominating 2025—and for good reason. They’re effortless, elegant, and built to beat the heat.
These fits give:
- Mediterranean vacation energy
- Laid-back confidence
- Breezy comfort with high-style payoff
Why it works:
- Linen naturally regulates temperature, keeping you cool and dry
- Light tones like cream, ivory, and sand reflect light and look expensive
- Open collars and relaxed fits create a soft, masculine silhouette
How to wear it:
- Go bare-chested under the shirt or wear an open tank underneath
- Slightly oversized for flow, not bulk
- Finish with sandals, espadrilles, or minimalist loafers (or go barefoot on the beach)
Color tip: Stick to whites, oatmeals, and warm beiges for a timeless, sun-kissed look.
Quiet gorpcore
If 2017’s gorpcore and the quiet luxury style had a baby, it would be quiet gorpcore.
‘Gorp’ is an acronym for ‘good ol’ raisins and peanuts’ – popular ingredients hikers and outdoorsy folk put into their trail mixes. Inspired by this, gorpcore clothing consists of cargo pants, puffer jackets, hiking boots and waterproof jackets. Brands like Patagonia and Arc’teryx are king.
For summer 2025, a more refined and subtle ‘quiet gorpcore’ is making an appearance. Think subdued hues and a focus on product quality and sustainability, as well as how well an outfit can transition from outside to inside environments.
Look out for tech cargo shorts, lightweight gilets, liner jackets, and stompy hiker boots, like Timberlands.
Summer Tops That Actually Hit in 2025
Your top half carries most of the visual weight in summer fits—so don’t slack on it. Here’s what’s trending (and actually wearable):
1. Cuban Collar Shirts
The most versatile shirt of the summer. Worn buttoned-up, layered over a tank, or completely open for beach vibes.
- Go for crinkled textures, bold patterns, or washed solids
- Looks great with shorts, linen trousers, or even swimwear
- Opt for slightly boxy cuts to keep it breezy
2. Oversized Linen Shirts
Soft, breathable, and slightly disheveled (in a good way). These scream effortlessness.
- Earth tones, white, and pastels are safe bets
- Perfect for layering or wearing solo
- Roll the sleeves or leave it open—it all works
3. Knitted & Crochet Tees
Yes, they’re trending—and yes, they can look masculine.
- Stick to neutrals and earth tones
- Pair with linen or drawstring shorts for a modern Euro look
- Keep accessories simple to balance the texture
4. Vintage Polos & Sport-Inspired Tops
A nod to tennis clubs and 90s rugby. Great for clean, sporty outfits without looking juvenile.
- Look for knitted polos, tipped collars, or retro embroidery
- Works best with drawstring or chino-style shorts
Shorts You’ll Actually Want to Wear
It’s not just about staying cool—it’s about getting proportions right and matching your top half. Here are the summer 2025 short staples:
1. Tailored Linen Shorts
Elevated but breathable. Think 5–7” inseam, crisp pleats, and room to move.
- Pair with tucked-in polos or open Cuban shirts
- Perfect for dinner fits or travel days
2. Drawstring Shorts (Not Gym Shorts)
Casual, but elevated. Think terry cloth, pique cotton, or textured fabrics—not shiny mesh.
- Looks great with oversized tees or tanks
- Choose muted colors or washed-out tones
3. Mid-Length Cotton Shorts
The summer essential. Easy to dress up or down.
- Think chino cuts but more relaxed
- Works with literally every top on this list
4. Jorts (Yes, Seriously)
Clean-cut denim shorts—think straight or slightly loose fits, no crazy distressing.
- Great for edgier fits or streetwear-leaning looks
- Pair with high socks and sneakers or sandals
Accessories That Finish the Look Without Trying Too Hard
1. Sunglasses
- Retro rectangles, slim frames, or colored lenses (orange, amber, green)
- Go for quality frames—cheap sunnies kill a fit
2. Headwear
- Bucket hats are still in, especially in soft neutrals or black
- Baseball caps with subtle logos or vintage wash
- Panama hats if you’re going full linen-lux
3. Jewelry
- Minimal chains (silver or gold)
- Woven or leather bracelets
- Thin metal watches or vintage digitals
4. Bags
Bonus points for earthy materials like jute or hemp
Crossbody slings, canvas totes, or woven beach bags
Final Thoughts: Summer Style Is Simpler Than You Think
Looking good in the summer doesn’t mean doing more—it means doing less, better.
Focus on breathable fabrics, elevated basics, and fits that flatter your physique. Master a few go-to outfit combos—like a linen set, an all-black fit, or a Cuban collar + tailored shorts—and you’re already ahead of the pack.
Keep it clean. Keep it confident. And most of all, don’t overthink it.