The hottest men’s summer accessories to elevate your outfits

Summer has endless perks—holidays, outdoor dining, longer days…—, but also a few downsides; namely, figuring out how to look fashionable while staying cool. The trusty t-shirt and shorts combo is a must, but it tends to quickly lose its lustre.

The remedy? Accessories! Adding some extra touches to your summer uniform will help you escape the “kid at summer camp” vibe, and also make you feel more refined.
Here’s our comprehensive guide to all the hottest accessories to spruce up your summer outfits.

Men’s accessories should be all about quality, versatility, and personal style. Go for timeless and versatile pieces that can go from casual to formal and steer away from pieces that are too trend-specific. High-quality and durable materials—like leather, sterling silver, and stainless steel—as well as polished details, like stitching and hardware, are the hallmarks of an investment piece. Finally, picking accessories that match your wardrobe and personal style will always give you a sharp and polished appearance.

Every guy should have a few key accessories in his collection. A nice watch not only keeps you on schedule but also adds a touch of class to any outfit. And a versatile belt in black or brown can really bring your whole look together effortlessly. Don’t forget about sunglasses—grab a classic pair for daily wear and a bold one for special occasions. The right jewellery, like a sleek chain or a signet ring, can also significantly improve your style. Of course, a well-made bag—whether it’s a tote or a fanny pack—is essential for carrying all your stuff in style. Lastly, socks are often overlooked, but they’re a key accessory nonetheless.

Here are our picks for the best men’s accessories to rock this summer.

A timeless chain is the staple piece of jewellery that you’ll never want to take off. Thin and “dainty” designs are more understated and classic, while a chunkier chain is a bold statement piece to brag about. Always go for sterling silver or gold-plated pieces to avoid them oxidising and turning green on you. Undecided between gold and silver? The former is more luxurious—especially when paired with chunky designs—, while the latter is more trendy for 2024. Mixing both is the solution!

Yes, it’s time guys start carrying bags too. No more cramming all your belongings in your pockets or leaving the house without tissues and lip balm. Our favourite practical bag for the summer? The tote.
Tote bags are a genderless staple, perfectly reflecting summer’s relaxed and airy feeling. When choosing a tote bag, first decide on the style. Are you looking for a more casual, beach vibe, or something suitable for work? Next, consider the material. Canvas totes are great for running errands, while leather is ideal for commuting to work.

The quintessential summer staple, sunglasses can add so much personality to all your outfits. Every pair of eyes deserves at least two pairs of sunglasses: one for outdoorsy activities, hiking, and travel, and another more refined pair for fashionable events, special occasions, and fit check pics. Luckily the summer 2024 sunglasses trends have something for everyone. For the active, out-of-doors kinds, a stylish pair of wraparound sunglasses is the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you’re not willing to compromise the look even when inside, pastel-coloured tinted lenses offer a degree of protection from UV rays while being super transitional and wearable.

The right watch can make you look like a true gentleman, especially in the summer. This year, we’re loving the minimalist and retro-inspired designs that have been popping up on the high street and in luxury fashion alike. Elegant and versatile, minimalist watches feature clean, simple watch faces with understated dials and slim profiles. On the other hand, classic designs from the 1960s to the 1990s are also making a comeback: vintage-inspired dials, retro colours, and leather straps add a classic touch.

Fanny packs are great for the on-the-move, practical types, but don’t think of them as “dad on vacation” kind of bags. In 2024, fanny packs are worn crossbody for a more modern—and inarguably cooler—look. Think of the fanny pack as the “cargo pants” of bags—combining function and style in one. Fanny packs are great for multitaskers: they’re surprisingly spacious and allow you to keep all your valuables nice and close. Also, they can easily be slung over your back while you’re on your bike or skateboard.

A nice signet ring will be the ultimate touch of class for every one of your daily outfits, from a casual night out to a wedding. Minimalist, stripped-down designs are classic for a reason, but chunky pieces with thick bands and stones are also bold and fashionable options. The maximalists out there will love stacking multiple rings on the same finger to create a clashing and eclectic effect. Finally, for a personal touch, you can go for a signet customised with your initials, birthstone, or other meaningful engravings.

Who would’ve thought that socks could go out of style? Well, that’s exactly what happened to low-cut socks, which have been permanently banished in favour of the formerly dorky, now cool crew socks. With the rise of the humble mule, colourful, textured socks are now a fashion statement you can show off anywhere. This summer, style your shorts and mules of choice with a fun pair of crew socks.