Dressing for the hottest months of the year isn’t the most fun (and certainly not the driest). It might also take a toll on Rwandan men having to hurdle through the choices. But if you lock in with SENS’ men’s summer clothing essentials, you will breeze through the swelter with confidence.
The important thing to remember when styling for summer as a man is that comfort comes above all else. So, ensuring your clothes fit, the fabrics are breathable, and you’re hydrated should be a priority. That said, here’s our definitive list of the essentials to keep you as cool as a cucumber.
The Light Shirt
Let’s start with the light shirt—a must-have for any Rwandan man’s summer wardrobe. These shirts are made from a special fabric called linen, which is lightweight and breathable, perfect for hot weather. Linen shirts are great because they strike a balance between being classy and relaxed, making them suitable for a variety of occasions.
How to Wear the Light Shirt:
Casual Look: Pair your light shirt with a pair of shorts and some easygoing shoes like espadrilles. Rolling up the sleeves adds a laid-back touch that’s perfect for hanging out with friends on a sunny day.
Dressed-Up Vibe: Wear your light shirt with some nice pants and loafers. Stick to neutral colors for a classic look or mix it up with some pastel shades for a bit of fun.
Special Events: Make your light shirt look fancy by layering it under a light jacket. This adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit while keeping you cool in the heat.
The Polo Shirt
Another summer essential for Rwandan men is the polo shirt. These shirts are versatile—you can dress them up or down depending on the occasion.
How to Wear the Polo Shirt:
Relaxed Weekend Look: Pair your polo shirt with some shorts and sneakers. Throw on a pair of sunglasses and a hat to complete the outfit and protect yourself from the sun.
Office Attire: Dress up your polo shirt with nice pants and loafers. Stick to solid colors or simple patterns for a professional look that’s still comfortable in the heat.
Date Night: Impress your special someone by wearing your polo shirt with slim pants and nice shoes. Adding a light jacket to the outfit gives it an extra touch of style that’s sure to make you stand out.
Men’s Loafers
Choosing the right footwear is crucial in completing your summer outfits. Here are some suggestions to keep your feet comfortable and stylish.
Casual Shoes: Espadrilles and sneakers are perfect for everyday wear. They are comfortable and can be paired with both shorts and casual pants.
Formal Shoes: Loafers are a complimenting choice for a more polished look. They are breathable and come in various styles that can match any outfit.
Sandals: For extremely hot days, a good pair of sandals can keep your feet cool. Opt for leather sandals for a stylish and comfortable option.
The Star-Making Sunglasses
A stylish pair of sunglasses not only protects your eyes from the sun but also adds a cool factor to your outfit. Go for classic styles like aviators or wayfarers.
The Vintage-Washed Dad Hat:
Honestly, any light hat will do. Fedoras, if you’re going for the Papi look, or the most bang for your buck, a washed-out baseball hat, logo or not. Sans logoBonus points if it’s actually vintage.
Wrist Watches
Simple, lightweight watches and bracelets add a touch of elegance without making you feel too hot. Plus, your time is valuable. Get yourself a watch that’s worth the wrist.
Basic White Tees
A few well-fitting basic tees in neutral colors can be paired with almost anything.
Time-Tested Trunks
Comfortable shorts in many colors can be mixed and matched with different tops. Orlebar Brown’s signature swim shorts—with their tailored cut and natty side tabs—have set the gold standard for almost two decades. As long as it keeps putting ’em out in fetching fabrics like this puckered pink candy stripe, it’s in no danger of losing the crown.
Lightweight Pants:
Linen or cotton pants are perfect for more formal occasions or when you want to dress up a bit.
Light Jackets
A couple of light jackets or kitenge made in Rwanda can add a touch of sophistication to your outfits without making you too hot.
Pro Tip; Experiment with Colors
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with colors. Don’t be afraid to try something new. From Light blues, pinks, and yellows to bright colors and patterns, just as long as you balance the bolds with the neutrals, you will add a fresh, summery vibe to your look.
Dressing well in the summer doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple fashion tips and essentials can upgrade your wardrobe no matter where you’re headed – whether hanging out with friends, heading to the office, or going on a date.
