“Shoes” in the summer is a bit of an oxymoron, right? However, when the risk of ‘no service’ presents itself, duty calls. For me, summer is a time to celebrate being casual. Sure, there are formal situations, but I like to make my own summer formal rules: light fabrics, light colors, and no socks. Admittedly, the no socks rule is year round for me, but I consider that a quirk.
My summer uniform is pretty standard: golf shirt or oxford with rolled sleeves, shorts, khakis, or light colored jeans, a cool belt, and sunglasses. I’ve gotten into the short sleeve dress shirt…I like the look. They are like a convertible sport shirt. Onward Reserve offers a few that I really like.
Of course, there is plenty of time in and around the water, in the back yard, and watching the Braves. Casual and comfortable. In terms of footwear, I like to have plenty of options. Of course I like function, but I’m all about good style. Here’s what I like to wear when the temperature and humidity are fighting for the high score:
From top left:
1. Martin Dingman Bel Aire Bow Tie Drivers: A solid go-to for the summer. They look like church shoes now, but by the end of summer, they’ll look (and feel) like house slippers. That should be your goal…
2. Tretorn X Andre 3000 Benjamin Nylites: I’ve gotten into the canvas shoe trend over the past few years. I scored a pair of these from Sid’s a while back, and like how they’ve broken in. These Nylites with some spice by Andre 3000 are cool enough to NOT look like streetwear.
3. Russell Moccasin Camp Moccasins: When you need something a little more substantial than drivers, or a little less casual that penny loafers, camp mocs are just what the doctor ordered. I have a pair, and wear them all the time…I love the traditional/Ivy casualness. Think jeans and an OCBD.
4. New Balance X Ball and Buck ML1978s: I like something a little lighter in the summer.
5. Res Ipsa Kilim Loafers: For when you need to add a little spice to date night…let these be the focus of your outfit. A good pair of jeans, a solid dress shirt, and a light blazer. You’ll get looks. Embrace it.
6. Alden 6244F Tan Suede Handsewn Loafers: They are going to look a little lighter than you are comfortable with. Think of these as a new take on suede bucs…they look great with khaki 5-pockets or broken in jeans…or more specifically with shorts. Just make sure you’ve got some semblance of a tan…
7. Fishpond X Chacos Native Z2 Sandels: I’ve never been a big Chaco guy, but since I’ve started fishing, I’ve learned that I need something a little more substantial than #10 when shore fishing or bumming around in a boat.
8. Swims Stride Loafers: I’ve had my eye on these for quite some time, and really like the idea of these. They are a dressy version of Crocs…but they’ll look a lot better at the dinner table.
9. Diadora N9000 IIIs: I 100% approve of any sort of vintage sneaker. Especially some that are on sale. Don’t take it so seriously.
10: Havaianas Flip Flops: You don’t need any explanation as to why a $19 pair of flip flops is a good idea.
What summer footwear are you digging?
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