Written by Paddy Maddison in Essentials on the 2nd June 2016

You’ve probably noticed by now that summer is doing it’s best to creep in and as the weeks progress it’s only going to get hotter. With that in mind, it’s probably a good time to have a look at your summer wardrobe and spend a bit of time making sure you have your essentials. To help you out here is a rundown of our must have summer items for 2016.

Technical Knit Sneakers 

If you live near the beach then by all means stick with the flip-flops, but if you live in the city then that really isn’t an option (and if you think it is then may we politely advise that you give your head a wobble). It’s tricky to find something breathable enough to replace flip-flop but modern technology has the answer. You’ve probably come across knitted sneakers before but now there are more options than ever before. Nike and Adidas have got the market sewn up as per usual; a few good places to start are with the Nike Sock Dart or Flyknit Racer, or for Adidas try the Ultra Boost. Adidas have also recently released a nice Primeknit version of the insanely popular Stan Smith.

Green Stuff 

Green has been on the rise for a few seasons now as a fashionable colour but this summer it’s really set to blow up. Military/forest green is probably our favourite tone and looks great on a pair of chino shorts or a vest. Asos have some great deals on shorts in this shade and even offer packs of two for a discounted price so you have no excuse not to be on trend this summer.

A Baseball Cap 

Something else that has been creeping onto the runways for a few years now is the humble baseball cap. This is something you should definitely be investing in this year, but we aren’t talking garish snapbacks emblemized with team logos and OTT branding; we’re talking block colours or clean patterns, premium materials and always, always, ALWAYS forward facing. If you’re still struggling to envision what this might look like the check out Larose Paris, who have got this style nailed on in a variety of different styles and materials.

A Zip-Up Track Jacket 

The classic track jacket is gaining momentum this season and we’ve already seen it styled in a variety of ways in the SS16 shows, which showed what a versatile piece it can actually be and why it’s worth your money. There are plenty of high-end incarnations floating about now, but if you really want to get the look right then your best bet is to visit some vintage clothing shops. Most cities will have vintage stores with rails full of old 80s/90’s track jackets from the likes of Adidas, Puma and bonus points for unbranded pieces! Just remember to avoid neon colours and obnoxious, oversized branding.

The Cuban Collar/The Bowling Shirt 

The Bowling Shirt looks set to be a hit this summer and there are plenty of styles to choose from, which range from slim-fitting and subtle, to full Chandler Bing. This item is the perfect choice for the warmer months, owing to short sleeves and a breezy open collared design. Check out Louis Vuitton’s SS16 show for some prime examples and make sure to seek out neutral colours and beach inspired prints.

Here's this year's Men's Summer Menswear Essentials guide, featuring 2016 must-have garments featuring the cuban collar to the zip up track jacket.