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Better beach vacation style
Recently, I’ve been scaling back buying more tailored clothing and focusing more on my relaxed summer style. During the last several years, I’ve gathered a collection of classic pieces to combat the years of tank tops and t-shirts that I’ve reluctantly collected.
The key for me is finding a balance between my tailored looks and a casual approach that speaks to a certain level of sophistication and maturity. The more I travel, the more I continue to see the regression of the once chic, beach-going gentleman. Men are no longer approaching their vacation style with the same approach as their daily tailored ones.
One of the most often worn pieces this year in my casual wardrobe also happens to be one that’s rooted in a bit of history. The camp collar shirt has become a hallmark of men’s summer style for decades and has remained a go-to look for me anytime I’m on vacation. This shirt is identifiable by its wide, flat collar, notched lapel and straight cut bottom hem. Sometimes referred to as a “Cuban” collar shirt, you’ll often find them in Hawaiian prints.
Traditionally, a camp collar shirt is worn untucked, and by all means, feel free to do so. This is one of those times where your shirt can be untucked and you won’t look sloppy. On the contrary, I’ve found that when wearing a camp collar shirt with some airy linen pants and espadrilles, it can actually look quite refined and perfect for a night dining al fresco.
| WEARING | Striped Camp Collar Shirt (Similar), Light Tan Linen Trouser (Similar), Soludos Canvas Espadrilles, Straw Fedora/Panama Hat (Similar), Acetate Sunglasses (Similar), Seiko Dive Watch (Similar) | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Victoria Saperstein
Don’t be afraid of a little flair. A great camp collar shirt can be a little flamboyant as long as the rest of your look is toned down. When I’m on a beach vacation, wearing a patterned shirt like this one can turn a few heads but it’s often a great conversation starter. I enjoy chatting with the other people who have traveled halfway across the world to find some rest and relaxation.
Not a fan of a buttoned up shirt when on vacation? Wear it open. The camp collar shirt was made to be worn comfortably. Wear it when you’re headed over to the hotel pool or wandering the beach with a panama hat and your favorite cigar.
No beach vacation is complete without considering the right footwear. I’ve written about my Beach Vacation Essentials and it’s clear that sandals have no business on my feet. While it’s a personal preference, to me, the espadrille is the perfect footwear for any beach vacation.
Thanks, as always, for reading.
Stylishly Yours,
Steven D. Elliott
He Spoke Style
