Now that we’re truly into Summer in the UK, you can tell because it’s raining, it’s time to start thinking about how best to spruce up the wardrobe.  Now, this is a task that, for most men, can be quite daunting, especially if there is no other half to help or decide for you.  One store I enjoy rummaging around in is the beautiful Liberty of London store which is always a joy and as it boasts a Murdock grooming department you can pamper yourself with a traditional wet shave, especially useful if you do have an other half who is busying themselves in the shoe department!  Of course in this day and age the Internet is a boon to those who are not able to make it London as you can shop online.  Yes, you are unable to get a wet shave online but you can still brighten up your wardrobe with a few clicks of your mouse.

Now, I don’t know why but for some reason I can’t help but feel as if I’m on holiday if I’m wearing something stripy and as an avid polo shirt wearer I couldn’t resist this splendid Burkman Brothers Blue Striped Polo Shirt. Rain or shine I’ll always feel I’m strolling around Cannes while wearing it, especially if I’m walking around Kensington, where the French expat. community gather.  During the day, if the sun is out or you do happen to be in Cannes, you won’t go wrong pairing it with either a pair of Paul Smith Khaki Swim Shorts or these Burkman Brothers Stone Shorts. In the evening a comfortable pair of long legged chinos will see you right.

Last but by no means least is what to put on your feet!  For versatility you can’t go wrong with these Blue Sebago Docksides which will give you quite a nautical air and if you don’t fancy them in blue they also come in white, navy, purple and orange.  Just remember to leave the socks at home, especially if you opt to wear shorts!

This Summer is certainly not the season to be sticking to safe browns and blacks!

Other than a pair of jeans, it’s hard to think of a more American garment than the chino. It should be noted though, the casual cotton trousers weren’t invented in the States. Their story begins on our side of the globe a long time ago and it starts, like so many pieces of men’s fashion, with the military.

In the 1840s, British colonial soldiers marching through India dyed their white uniforms to match the terrain’s dusty, saffron-hued sand. In fact, the term khaki is derived from the Persian word khâk, meaning “dust/ashes” Eventually, every solider was outfitted in khaki cotton uniforms and soon they became standard issue for many of the world’s military. But it was young American soldiers who introduced the chino to civilians—sporting their uniform chinos on college campuses after returning from World War II.

Durable, comfortable and adaptable to any range of styles and colours, the young men wore the drill-cloth pants with everything from T-shirts and trainers to Oxford cloth button-downs and loafers and because the trousers were as timeless as they were durable, the style endured.

An essential part of the modern man’s wardrobe in my mind  would be 3 pairs of chinos in Khaki, Navy and Black. Try to stay clear from grey chinos as they look all a little too formal.

Every brand under the sun now seem to produce chinos at varying price points and quality, but for me there really is only one brand to look at…..

Dockers Comfort Fit Chinos

The original chinos were from Dockers made by Levis, you know what you are getting here, good solid construction a reasonable price tag and in Khaki suitable for casual wear or a more dressed down look in the office.

Available from House of Fraser and other outlets.

mr.black@gentlemensgoods.com