Men, just because it’s summer doesn’t mean that you can’t wear a jacket.  Pairing a lightweight blazer with shorts is a tried and true way to say, “I know it’s summer, but I still have style.”

There are a few more benefits to this dynamic wardrobe duo other than looking put together.  First of all, you probably already have all the pieces to the outfit; every man should have a few pairs of shorts and at least one lightweight blazer. Secondly, a jacket is a great way to look fresh in the heat.  If you are going to wear a single layer in the summer, you are going to sweat through it.  A layer on top actually hides embarrassing sweat marks and keeps you looking chipper – even in sweltering heat.

There are a few ways to pull off the blazer/shorts combo:

Nick Wooster keeps it formal with a tie and pocket square.

A v-neck sweater over a patterned shirt lends a preppy, American feel that will make you look like you just stepped out of a Tommy Hilfiger ad into Nantucket.

Alas! Are those cargo shorts? Camo cargo shorts?  Indeed they are.  Don’t be so stuffy!  Try this rough approach to boldly state, “I’m a man AND I care how I dress.”