I Don't Take Leads from Men, But I *Will* Borrow These Pieces From Their Summer Wardrobes
Oxford shirts, trackie bottoms, tote bags and sunnies: if it looks better when it's bigger, then I'm prepared to invest.
Let me start by saying, there are a lot of things I love about my husband, and his wardrobe happens to be one of them. A week rarely goes by that I haven't grabbed one of the blazers, T-shirts or jumpers from his selection, and rather than fight the inevitable, he's started to lean in to the open-door policy.
There's just something about sized-up 'fits with tomboy energy that manages to up the cool-girl factor. In a post-Frankie Shop-blazer-and-Saint-Laurent-tie era, it feels silly to even refer to any piece as "borrowed from the boys" (even though in my case, they quite literally are), as women have been owning boxy silhouettes and tailoring for decades, but it's only been a very recent change that my inspo board of fashion icons has evolved to include men.
"I am obsessed with Josh O'Connor's fashion glow-up!' I passionately texted the Who What Wear editor group chat while simultaneously Googling green trackies. And, if I'm honest, I've saved down more Colman Domingo outfits that are strictly necessary, all in the name of research. But thinking about my summer wardrobe specifically and what to pack for my next trip, a lot of A-list men have inspired a capsule wardrobe of pieces that feel fresh for 2026.
Sorry linen and floral dresses, we had a good run this spring, but in summer I'm turning my attention to big tees, small shorts, and lots (and lots) of comfy flats. While there will always be space in my wardrobe for a romantic moment or two, when it comes to dressing practically and comfortably for weather that can do anything, the guys have it covered.
Wondering what celebrity men are wearing this summer? Keep scrolling for plenty of
BDE (that's bold dressing examples). They might inspire a purchase or two for your own wardrobe in the process.
1. Ruched Loafers
Style Notes: Just when I thought I was in a committed relationship with sandals, Colman Domingo singlehandedly made the loafer a high-summer shoe option. The thought of wearing anything but a flip-flop in a heatwave was not something I had considered (especially with socks), but pairing them with shorts does create enough balance for me to reconsider what I call an appropriate 'seasonal shoe'.
Shop Loafers:
Alohas are one of my favourite shoe brands right now.
These are top of my dream wish list—get them while they're still in stock.
The soft sand colour is perfect for warm weather.
2. Short Shorts
Style Notes: Sorry Bermudas, it's been lovely, but this season I'm coveting the Harry hemline—a mid-thigh grazing short short that really gets people talking. While Harry is often drawn to retro runners, women have many more options on the market, so there's guaranteed to be a cut, print, or fabrication to suit you. Personally, I'd opt for anything breathable, and team with a casual long sleeve a la Styles' styling for casual weekends on the go.
Shop Shorts:
These fall a little lower than Harry's, so I'd pull them up to high-waisted to get the look.
Aren't checks just the cutest?
Such a good option for evening too.
Throw on an oversized tee and you're good to go.
These have 'summer' written all over them.
3. Big, Big Bags
Style Notes: Apparently men haven't undergone the accessory evolution that many women have (purse to clutch, to crossbody, to shoulder bag, to tote), and instead they have skipped from wallets in the pocket all the way up to supersized bags. Not since the invention of the briefcase have we been so interested in exactly what men are keeping in their bags (and there cannot be more than a phone rattling around in Paul Anthony Kelly's leather number), but I do love the potential in the ludicrously capacious bag. Not only can I fit my laptop and essentials inside for the daily commute, but it's also the perfect airport-to-beach bag, making it a true summer staple.
Shop Big Bags:
Jacob Elordi inspired.
Yes to summer raffia!
This shade of green is so elegant.
Now this is what I call a conversation starter.
4. The Perfect White Tee
Style Notes: After years of thinking that white t-shirts were boring, I realised that it was because I hadn't found the right one. Recently, fitted v-necks have given way to boxy, drop-shouldered tees that slouch in all the right places, creating an undeniably chic silhouette. Whether thick, heavy cotton or deliberately semi-sheer, the right white tee will be the foundation of so many great summer looks, so it's worth paying a little more for a quality piece that you can wear time and time again.
Shop White Tees:
*Rushes to buy*
The Row started as a project to find the perfect white tee, and now they stock several shapes and washes.
Just the right length of sleeve.
Premium quality.
5. Bright Trackies
Style Notes:
Style Notes: The male equivalent of pulling on a pair of leggings to lounge in? Straight-legged tracksuit bottoms of course. However, Josh O' Connor's recent outfit shows how much of a statement the right pair trackies can make, especially by colour-blocking brights with equally bold colours. Pairing a undone shirt, t-shirt, tracksuit bottoms and trainers might not feel revolutionary, but the choice of colours manages to make this whole look feel more considered, ideal for the weekends when you don't know what to wear.
Shop Trackies:
The O.Gs are a classic.
Honestly, the poppy red has me hooked.
A designer take on the trend.
I'll take one in every pair please!
6. Crisp Shirts
Style Notes: I'll never get tired of smart, longline shirts—they're so versatile that simply by switching up the way you way it can create an entirely different look. Tie it around your waist! Wear it open and layered over a tank! Tuck it into high-waisted jeans! Wear it loosely over shorts! Tie it around your shoulders over a strappy dress! I'm convinced, the cost-per-wear of any shirt makes it well worth the price tag, and ASAP Rocky's simple white shirt and black trousers is a reminder of how simple but effective a clean, crisp shirt can be. In fact, I'm tempted to recreate something similar with capri trousers and a red ballet shoe to see out of the rest of summer.
Shop Shirts:
A versatile wonder.
No one will believe that this is high street.
Such an unexpected but brilliant colour.
And speaking of brilliant colours, this bold blue from With Nothing Underneath is unmatched.
