3 easy tips to nailing summer style

Flickr/Leo Hidalgo

We've all walked into a store and felt like we didn't know where to start. That's usually when you end up walking out with another version of the thing you buy all the time, whether it's white kicks, blue jeans, or checked shirts. But, go in with a plan, with laser-sharp focus on what it is you want, and the outcome will be entirely different. This summer, make finding your perfect version of these three un-basic, hot-right-now items your mission. Each one will kick your night-out wardrobe to high gear, making you look a little bit like Miguel here, and not just another dude at the bar.

Vintage printed shirt 

Flickr/Leo Hidalgo

Topman Striped Shirt, $55, available at topman.com; Scotch & Soda Stretch Shirt, $125, available at scotch-soda.com; Blue Blue Japan Linen Shirt, $255, available at mrporter.com

Whether you go short-sleeve or long, a casual shirt in a vintage-inspired print is an easy way to make a big impact, style-wise. We're into the popular tropical motifs, like the ones Harry Styles can't get enough of, but for nighttime, a darker, more Rat Pack-era pattern is also stylish move.

Natural-color denim 

Flickr/Leo Hidalgo

Simon Miller M001 Jeans, $265, available at mrporter.com; Kenzo Straight-Leg Jeans, $179, available at farfetch.com; A.P.C. Petit Standard Jeans, $199, available at endclothing.com

Swap out your standard-issue denim for a pair of natural-color jeans. They'll make you're outfit more summer-appropriate, without being quite as look-at-me as a pair of bright-white jeans. And, because they call to mind chinos, you can also get away with wearing them to dinner and drinks.

Luxe leather loafers

Flickr/Leo Hidalgo

Tod's Leather Loafers, $725, available at store.tods.com; John Lobb Penny Loafers, $1,300, available at mrporter.com; Suitsupply Bordeaux Loafer, $349, available at us.suitsupply.com

We've been talking about loafers a lot this spring. They're always in style, but this season's leaner, meaner versions are impossible to get out of our minds. If you want a one-and-done shoe that'll give your night-out clothes some serious swagger, this is it. (Nothing against white kicks.)

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