Summer Simply: Polo Shirt and Chinos

A simple and casual polo shirt outfit

Way back when we started the site, one of the very first things I wrote about was a little wardrobe experiment/performance piece I conducted over the course of an entire year.

Inspired by the simple style of Steve Jobs – I’d just read Walter Isaacson’s Jobs biography – and the resulting clear mind that Jobs claimed to have experienced from simplifying that aspect of his life, I wondered whether or not that was a phenomenon I would feel. And if it would have the same effect on me.

The takeaway for me was, yes, it definitely simplifies life. Not having to decide what to wear in the morning certainly frees the mind for other things. Yet, it removes one of the most interesting and exciting aspects of menswear – the rich variety of possibilities.

Long story short: Would I do it again? Absolutely not. It was an interesting exercise, but menswear is too much fun. However, there’s nothing wrong with dressing simply.

| WEARING | J.Crew polo shirt, Pants c/o Tommy Hilfiger, IWC watch, Persol sunglasses, Suitsupply loafers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

Maybe it’s the heat – it was 103-degrees (felt like 116) with 50% humidity last week – but I’ve been keeping it pretty simple lately. Unless you’re wearing shorts, you need to keep it light and breathable. A classic polo shirt and cotton chinos always make the grade.

Any look as simple and casual as this one hinges on how you accessorize, which doesn’t require that much extra thought. For summer, a braided leather belt elevates a casual look. A chronograph watch keeps it sporty. And some classic plastic framed aviators add a dose of Hollywood cool.

Finally, a simple outfit is a vehicle for some interesting footwear. Sticking with one of our favorite summer loafer styles, the kiltie tassel loafer.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style