Summer!

I used to dread summer. Oppressive heat and having to let go of fifteen layers of wool, scarfing, and cashmere never appealed to me. I'm fair skinned, so I was always too self conscious to wear shorts and short-sleeve shirts. However, after discovering a good pair of shorts and a linen orange gingham vintage button-up, I began embracing my pasty skin. I said goodbye to my inhibitions (and inner goth) and was able to breathe during the summer months. Sure, I miss layering when summer time comes along, but there are countless ways to accessorize a summer look (I'm a big fan of a short-sleeve button-up worn with a pastel pocket square) 

Spring/Summer 2011 has a lot of exciting looks in store. I think it's about time young fellas start embracing their nelly side, so I'm more than happy to see the return of floral print. And you can't go wrong with a plaid linen shirts, pocket squares, and shorts!

Here are some of my favorite looks for S/S 2011:

Don't be afraid of floral, boys! Engineered Garments serves up some great floral items that will show you have a sense of humor:

British designer Margaret Howell's Spring/Summer 2011 offers you simple, durable classics that will fit in with any summer wardrobe. Here are two standouts (Via South Willard):

I'm a firm believer that a bow tie is the perfect accessory to any outfit. Whether you're dressed down or dressed up, the bow tie always says something. Steven Alan has some great summer options:

The pocket square is another accessory that surely makes an outfit go from bland to dapper. The Hill-Side has a great selection of pocket squares (Via Union Made, SF)

 Last but not least: the gingham linen shirt. It saved my life, and it might save yours if it's August and you're hiding under a sweater.  Gitman Vintage, Via South Willard: