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It’s beach time. Or maybe the right moment for a backyard BBQ. Perhaps, it might be nice to lounge by the pool. Possibly even a boat ride. Either way, it’s a time of year for something stylish, something maybe a little flashy — but ultimately, something light, and something that screams summer. Whether you call them button-ups or button-downs, the best men’s short-sleeved shirts can complete your summer fit.
The right look doesn’t have to be a bright Hawaiian shirt (although there’s something to be said for those.) Instead, there are tons of solid or patterned options that pair perfectly with your stylish swim trunks and retro sneakers. And if you need summer style inspiration, look to Hollywood stars (and the stylists responsible for them) who’ve mastered the art of wearing fitted button-downs. Ilaria Urbinati has dressed clients Ryan Reynolds and Donald Glover in cabana-ready camp shirts by Todd Snyder, Zegna and Dandy Del Mar, while Warren Alfie Baker has put Glen Powell and Lewis Pullman in summer-ready looks by London-based labels Scott Fraser Collection and King & Tuckfield.
So, whether you’re into playful prints or sleek fabrics (or both), here are some of the best men’s button-up shirts for summer. From sun-protective options that let you go from hiking to brunch to fashionable styles from brands frequently seen on leading men, check out our top picks below.
Todd Snyder Striped Open-Knit Guaybera Polo Shirt
Ryan Reynolds wore this exact Todd Snyder striped shirt to a Deadpool & Wolverine fan event in Rio. This open-knit button-down is made of lightweight Italian cotton-blend fabric and has an oversized fit for layering over tees and tanks.
Taylor Stitch The Palmer Shirt
With their Palmer shirt, denim brand Taylor Stitch treads the line between bowling style and poolside cool. Designed to be worn untucked, this retro silhouette is made of a blend of 60 percent Tencel and 40 percent linen for breathability and is finished with contrast piping.
Dandy Del Mar The Cannes Waffle Knit Shirt
The epitome of its namesake, Dandy Del Mar’s Cannes shirt is made of medium-weight waffle knit fabric and features a placket neckline and a chest pocket. (The brand has been worn offscreen by Aaron Paul and Simu Liu and onscreen by Leo Woodall in The White Lotus and Chase Stokes in Outer Banks.)
Prada Double Match Cotton Shirt
If you’re not one to shy away from prints, opt for Prada’s Double Match button-down featuring contrasting graphics. This sporty style features archive prints from the Italian fashion house, whose unmistakable triangle logo is the finishing touch. Brooklyn Beckham, James McAvoy, LaKeith Stanfield and Jake Gyllenhaal were among the stars who attended Prada’s Fall/Winter 2024 show earlier this year in Milan.
Chubbies Resort Weave Friday Shirt
Chubbies might be known more for their signature swim trunks (which just happen to be Olympian-approved), but their shirts are equally attractive. A modern, more athletic fit, the Resort Weave button-down shirt is perfect for summer Friday at the office or happy hour. There are over a dozen color selections, including this playful pink hue.
Bonobos Riviera Short Sleeve Shirt
If your aesthetic is the cool dad look, Bonobos’ best-selling Riviera short-sleeved shirt (available in tons of other colors and prints) is the way to go. You can customize it by tailored, slim, standard or athletic fit and in short, regular or long lengths. Choose from more than two dozen solid hues and prints, from classic white and chambray to polka dots and colorful frogs (to name just a few).
James Perse Convertible-Collar Garment-Dyed Linen Shirt
A linen shirt is a year-round essential. Make it short-sleeved and you have a proper summer fit. This one from casual-luxe label James Perse has a relaxed, airy feel and comes in two utilitarian-inspired hues.
Bugatchi Tipped Rib Cable Stitch Polo Sweater
For those breezier days and nights, Bugatchi’s breathable cable stitch polo can be dressed up with tailored trousers or dressed down with denim. (Bonus: select colors are on sale for 50 percent off.)
Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-Fit Short-Sleeve Poplin Shirt
Poplin is the perfect summer fabric thanks to its lightweight style, and Amazon Essentials’ short-sleeve pocket shirt is a versatile piece that belongs in every closet. Don’t be surprised if you want to grab this affordable button-up in every color and print.
Columbia Men’s Slack Tide Camp Shirt
Columbia’s Slack Tide camp shirt is one of the best men’s button-downs for sun protection. It’s made of the brand’s Omni-Shade UPF 50 fabric that block UVA/UVB rays, and we love thoughtful design touches such as the sunglasses cleaning patch, breathable venting and a pocket with a utility loop. (No wonder avid fishers love it.)
AllSaints Tijuana Bandana Print Button-Up Shirt
AllSaints’ slim-fit Tijuana bandana-print camp shirt screams summer vacation. It doesn’t hurt that it’s on sale for 40 percent off, too.
Outdoor Research Men’s Astroman Short Sleeve Sun Shirt
UV protection, versatility and a classic collared design combine in Outdoor Research’s Astroman sun shirt, which features UPF 50+ fabric and plenty of stretch for keeping wearers comfy during outdoor activities. Whether you wear it on the trail or to brunch, you’ll be stylish and comfy wherever you’re headed.
Duvin Basics Leisure Stretch Button-Up
Sometimes all you need is a classic neutral button-down to build a solid foundation for your wardrobe. Duvin’s Basics Leisure Stretch Button-Up features a cool camp collar and a relaxed fit and comes in six versatile colors. (The brand has been worn by Kygo, Bad Bunny, Odell Beckham Jr. and many other stars.)
Casablanca Men’s Abstract Tennis-Print Silk Camp Shirt
Casablanca’s tennis-print silk shirt is here to earn you style points — and at 60 percent off, the price can’t be beat, too.
Southern Gents SG Camp Collar Shirt
Stripes are always in, and Southern Gents’ best-selling camp collar shirt comes in colorways and graphic prints for every type of guy.
J. Crew Short-Sleeve Textured Cotton Camp-Collar Shirt
J Crew is always a good bet for some reliable, comfy and affordable leisure wear. The brand’s textured cotton camp collar shirt fits the bill perfectly, as it features a boxy, relaxed silhouette.
Wales Bonner Off-White Bowling Shirt
For something a little trendier, throw on Wales Bonner’s oversized bowling shirt in an off-white style exclusive to Ssense. It’s an ideal, on-trend summer piece with summery hues and light viscose-blend twill. (Pair it with the matching striped shorts for the ultimate effortless ‘fit.)
Brunello Cucinelli Logo-Print Short-Sleeve Shirt
Hollywood-favored luxury label Brunello Cucinelli’s cotton-piqué polo shirt might be a bit of a splurge, but that price tag comes with undeniable quality. (Daniel Craig, Dwayne Johnson and Leonardo DiCaprio are just a few leading men who’ve worn the Italian designer.)
