Gentlemen, discover summer looks you can create by mixing and matching polo shirts, tees, Bermuda shorts and more

One thing is certain, no matter what the situation is with the pandemic, summer marks a return to nice weather and better days ahead. The warm temperatures ahead are sure to make you want to bask in the sun and in nature, either with your family or a small group, depending on the public health guidelines. After all, making time for outdoor activities and creating happy memories is what counts. Here are a few outfit ideas to inspire your summer looks, and get you ready to add some fashionable clothing and accessories to your wardrobe.

• For a day in the city

Whether or not terrasses are open (fingers crossed!), the perfect outfit for a stroll around town starts with a collared shirt. Just make sure to keep the sleeves rolled up for a casual look. For the bottom half, nothing beats a pair of Bermuda shorts by day (check out the great styles from Mavi, Orvieto, Point Zero and Citadin) and well-cut chinos for the evening.

To suit the season, opt for patterns inspired by nature such as flowers and tropical plants. At Ernest, we’re big fans of bold, eye-catching patterns, but micro prints are a timeless choice if you prefer to be discreet. If you want to lift your spirits and turn heads, dare to dress in bright colours this summer.

• For a trip to the cottage

Are you fortunate enough to have access to a cottage by the water? Or perhaps you managed to book a campsite? To make the most of days playing Frisbee, chatting by the fire or hiking in the great outdoors, our stylists recommend you pack the following:

• Patterned T-shirts (opt for waves, palm trees or any other vacation-themed pattern) 
• Lightweight, stretch polo shirts (preferably in a variety of colours and patterns)
• Your favourite jeans (we offer pairs from Lois, 34 Heritage and Black Bull, among others)
• Simple, functional or colourful shorts (depending on your mood and the activities you have planned)
• Quality underwear (like these great Saxx boxers)
• A pale, wide-brimmed hat
• Stylish and comfortable shoes

When it comes to shoes, we have a soft spot for white sneakers (a classic look to be reserved for non-muddy terrain, obviously) or the breathable, lightweight models from the Geox. To help you make the right choice, read our article Men’s shoe trends: discover what styles to adopt this summer. Additionally, we invite you to visit one of our stores to find the perfect pair of shoes — and great socks to match!

• For an outing in the sun

Whether you’re having a romantic picnic in the park, admiring an outdoor art exhibit, strolling through a botanical garden or posing for an impromptu photo shoot with your partner or family, you’ll want to look good from head to toe.

If you’d like to turn heads and show off your tan (or your tattoos, if you have any), opt for a nice short-sleeved stretch shirt. As we already mentioned, large patterns like hibiscus flowers and palm leaves are particularly on-trend. Check out designs by Anthony of London, Orvieto, Au Noir and Point Zero, all of which are guaranteed to be a hit. 

A sunny summer in Quebec: a surefire way to boost morale

With festivals and other large-scale events postponed and non-essential travel outside your region strongly discouraged or prohibited altogether, the types of activities that are permitted have changed considerably since the start of the pandemic. But there’s no sense in dwelling on what can’t be changed or not making the most of the summer sun in whatever way you can.

Fortunately, swimming, paddling, cycling and hosting small family barbecues (perhaps with a few friends) will likely be possible in all regions this summer. So, get out your sunglasses, hat and sunscreen, and raise a glass of beer, wine or lemonade to another extraordinary summer.