7 menswear essentials to pack for a stylish summer holiday

The Boys of Summer: Avoid looking like an ageing Eighties rocker with these fail-safe style options (Getty)

Holidays are a time for rest and relaxation, but that’s not to say you should neglect your appearance altogether. Yes, we’re looking at you in the baggy board shorts and flip-flops.

Instead, save yourself from looking questionably turned-out by planning what to pack for your sunny getaway in advance – we promise it’s more straightforward than it seems.

The last thing you want to do is stress about whether or not you’re wearing the right thing, so remember to keep it tight, light and stylish with a list of basic essentials guaranteed to keep you looking at sharp from the airport to the beach bar.

T-shirts

Fine Stripe Short Sleeve Slub T-Shirt, £39, Jigsaw-online.com

An absolute staple, the humble T-shirt should be the foundation of every man’s suitcase – but don’t overcomplicate things. Too often, Brits abroad can be tempted into opting for shouty graphics and dazzling colours, but there really is no need.

Instead, keep it clean with a relaxed style and a round neck in shades like plain white, grey or navy. That said, you also can’t go wrong with a simple stripy tee.

Shorts

Tailored Cotton Shorts, £70, Reiss.com

What else would you pair with a casual T-shirt? Simple an easy to wear, a set of shorts in an understated colour will allow you to be more playful with the rest of your outfit choices.

A word of warning here though: keep the hemline above the knee, and avoid anything with more than two side pockets.

Shirts

Black & Purple Hawaiian Floral Print Shirt, £30, Topman.com

A formal shirt is vital when you travel, as you never know where you might end up. For a failsafe option pick a classic cotton piece that’s finished with a full button placket and pointed collar.

Alternatively, short sleeved shirts have suddenly become acceptable – providing you opt for a fifties-style bowling cut. Here, the Cuban collar and relaxed fit mean you have the freedom to experiment with print without looking like a cruise ship entertainer.

Trousers

Cotton Stretch Chinos, £59, Cosstores.com

While the temperatures might be soaring by day, evenings can often call for a little more coverage, so it might prove handy to pack a pair of trousers too.

Round off the bottom half of your wardrobe nicely with a muted pair in black, grey or khaki that are designed with a flawless finish, and unlined so you won’t overheat.

Swimming Shorts

Swim Shorts, £12, Next.co.uk

It’s likely that the pool will become your second home when on holiday so you really need to nail things in the swimwear department.

Whatever you do, forgo the knee-length Bermuda shorts in favour of a cropped pair and, unlike your day-to-day shorts, don’t be afraid play around with colour.

Sunglasses

Oliver Peoples, Delray Sun Sunglasses, £325, farfetch.com

This might sound obvious, but sunnies are an absolute essential when the sun comes out. If you want to play it safe, take your pick from Rayban’s selection of Clubmaster or Wayfarer styles.

But, if you want to go for something a little different, Oliver Peoples guarantee to make you stand out from the crowd.

Shoes

Common Projects, Original Achilles Leather Sneakers, £290, mrporter.com

Trainers are a wardrobe staple for good reason and this doesn’t change when you’re on holiday.

Sturdier than a pair of sandals, a pair of classic white tennis shoes not only look great but will give your feet the support they need while you’re off exploring.