The menswear guide on how to wear prints this summer

Choosing and wearing prints rarely comes easy to the majority of us, so it can be tempting to stick to what we know and live in a terminal state of simplicity... but where’s the fun in that?

We insist that your printed shirt be of the Cuban collar variation – distinguished by its open, notch lapel collar – for ultimate style points

Summer is an opportune time to start new things from visiting far-flung places to exercising alfresco, but for those of us who see the longer days as an excuse to shop, it’s also the perfect time to add a little visual flare to your wardrobe.

From DSquared to Dolce & Gabanna and Craig Green, this season a whole host of influential labels embraced all kinds of prints and patterns but, while these kinds of outlandish looks are easy for six-foot-something models to pull off, how can the average Joe follow in their footsteps without looking like too much of a try-hard?

Choosing and wearing prints rarely comes easy to the majority of us, so it can be tempting to stick to what we know and live in a terminal state of simplicity... but where’s the fun in that?

If you want to dip a tentative toe into menswear motifs, that perennial favourite the stripe should be your print of choice.

The classic Breton T-shirt is a great entry point into the stripy stuff and you’ll be happy to hear that there just as many affordable versions on the market as there are designer options.

After all, this guarantees to be a style that will quickly become a ubiquitous staple in your wardrobe all year round.

Mauna Hawaiian Shirt, £85, All Saints

Alternatively, try flipping the print and opting for a bold vertical stripe shirt instead – a move which will spotlight you as someone who really knows their stuff.

If you’re feeling really brave, floral and geometric print shirts will always fare well on your torso too.

Albam, Striped Cotton Jersey T-Shirt, £55, Mr Porter

That being said, sidestep the allure of novelty Hawaiian styles for something more grown-up and abstract, yet still irreverent.

In any case, we insist that your printed shirt be of the Cuban collar variation – distinguished by its open, notch lapel collar – for ultimate style points.

NICCE, Camouflage Short Sleeve Shirt, £45, Topman

For formal summer events tuck into a pair of tailored trousers and finish the look with a smart shoe, or unbutton and wear over a T-shirt with shorts and white trainers for the weekend.

Only & Sons, Brown Stripe Short Sleeve Shirt, £22, Topman

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