How to Master the Shirts and Shorts Combo

It isn't easy to keep your cool as you swelter in a three-piece- and we applaud your efforts! But what if we told you there's a super stylish alternative that just might make dressing formally in the summer, not just bearable, but enjoyable?

Enter the shirts and shorts combo: a smart, versatile pairing that works as well for garden parties as it does for barbecues and beer gardens.

Before you dive into our men's collection to find the perfect pair, there are a few style rules to keep in mind.

Follow them, and you'll master the art of the shirts and shorts combo in no time!

There’s often confusion about when it’s appropriate to wear shirts and shorts. But aside from strictly formal settings — think traditional weddings, corporate boardrooms, or black-tie events — this pairing fits in more often than you might think.

Location, styling, and material are your main considerations. Get those right, and the combo can adapt to everything from holiday dinners to rooftop drinks.

Not sure where to start? Casual events like picnics, barbecues, and weekend get-togethers give you the freedom to experiment with colour, pattern, and texture.

This is where you can embrace relaxed styles-  think cargo shorts in bold hues and polo shirts with paisley or botanical prints. On your feet, trainers or pumps add a laid-back, youthful energy that keeps things effortlessly cool.

Of course, summer weather can be unpredictable. But don’t let a breeze throw off your game — layer with a light cardigan, overshirt, or hoodie for an easy sun-to-shade transition.

Deciding what to wear for a summer wedding can be tricky!

The relaxed setting combined with the blazing sun can make it very tempting to lean all the way into informal territory, but the real key is to find the right balance between tradition, style, and comfort. Your wedding guest outfit should respect tradition, whilst keeping you cool and polished.

As long as you don't rock up in your swim trunks, shirts and shorts are usually welcome at beach ceremonies. Chino shorts are a great choice as they're lightweight yet have a structured shape, which will make your laid-back look feel more distinguished. Though we love a splash of colour, try to stick with neutral shades like white or beige. 

Linen and cotten are the best fabrics for your wedding guest shirt. They're sophisticated, breathable, and they travel easy. Loud patterns are a no-go, but you can still show off your personality with subtle prints and standout colours. 

If your look is feeling a little too casual, refine it with a tailored blazer. 

Garden parties sit right in that sweet spot between formal and casual. They're ritzy enough that your outfit should be thought-out rather than thrown together, but they've got an easy going energy that makes shorts completely acceptable.

Start off your garden party look with a pastel polo or floral shirt to fit with the theme. Pair it with tailored chinos in either a neutral or complementary shade- cream or sand always look sharp in daylight settings, whereas bold blues, pinks, and greens will stand out against the vivid backdrop.

Brogues and suede pumps are a great choice for footwear as they offer a balance between polished and comfortable. If the event is on the dressy side of semi-formal, just add a linen blazer and you'll be ready to make an impression.

If you need more garden party outfit inspiration, check out our Gentleman's Guide to Garden Party Attire.

For warm evenings spent sipping local wines and dining al fresco, your shirts and shorts combo should feel polished and subtly romantic, but not overly formal.

This is where crinkle fabric shirt comes into its own. Colourful, and cool in every sense, the crinkle fabric shirt adds depth and movement to your outfit, which gives a positively striking effect in the moonlight. Have fun experimenting with unique prints to show off your holiday confidence.

When it comes to the shorts, a pair of colourful chinos works beautifully, creating a subtle contrast between the soft texture of the shirt and the structured style of the shorts. 

Keep the footwear relaxed- leather brogues and suede loafers work well. Then, bring some edge with subtle accessories like leather necklaces and beaded bracelets.

All about easy elegance, this look is perfect for transitioning between poolside cocktails to candlelit dinners.