10 Shirts and Shorts
Stripes, patterns and color to work into your warm weather wardrobe
A style once reserved for cubicle jockeys and gas station attendants, the short sleeve button-down has picked up speed in the menswear market in recent years. And shorts? Well, they’ve always been popular. To celebrate the recent uptick in temperature most of the Northern Hemisphere is finally experiencing, we’ve pulled together a selection of short sleeve shirts and shorts from 10 brands we’ve been eyeing this season.
Brooklyn Tailors
Spring 2013 marks the first season Brooklyn Tailors has introduced short sleeve button-downs to their collection of finely constructed men’s clothing. As long-time supporters of both the bespoke and off-the-rack attire, we’re genuinely excited to see the slightly more casual options worked into the line. The Japanese printed cotton “Standard Shirt” is one of our favorites. Woven in Japan, the deep blue is overlain with a white motif with some slight irregularity due to its hand application—a touch to be appreciated. Find it online for $175 or order a made-to-measure at the Brooklyn Tailors’ brick and mortar in Williamsburg.
Kaptain Sunshine
Another Japanese brand that does Americana better than most American brands, Kaptain Sunshine references vintage garments to make sure every detail is accurate. Here we see WWII-era camo and 1960s varsity shorts act as inspiration for the Weekend Bermuda Shorts. Made in Japan of pre-shrunk Japanese cotton, the rip-stop camouflage fabric is exclusive to Kaptain Sunshine. Find these trunks from Hickoree’s for $224.
Beams+
A collection firmly rooted in classic Americana from one of Japan’s most acclaimed menswear shops, Beams+ can’t be argued against. Made entirely in Japan of lightweight cotton, the PO BD Border shirt is exactly what we’re looking for this season—even though it is technically more of a pop-over than full button-down. Find it from Unionmade for $135.
Engineered Garments
Military-inspired design without an excess of camouflage, the Fatigue Shorts feature front utility pockets and a cinch waste straps. Made in NYC of Japanese cotton rip-stop, it’s hard to go wrong with Engineered Garments. Head over to Oi Polloi to find these light blue shorts for $199.
Norse Projects
Those with a penchant for design and style have been all over Norse for years now. With an acute sense of design, the Danish label delivers a perfect mix of modest menswear season after season. And we’re especially digging the Anton SS Geometry Shirt this spring. Made of 100% cotton in Europe, the all-over print is busy without going overboard. Norse Projects online has it directly for $136.
Unis
One of the single best designers in the field of absolute minimalism, Eunice Lee garners her brand plenty of attention every season, with her eye for clean lines and fine details. All of which can be seen in the Emmett Short in vintage khaki. Made in America with Italian cotton fabric, the slim shorts land above the knee for a classic look. Visit Unis in NYC, LA or online to find the Emmett for $178.
Brixton
Less fashion and more everyday man, Brixton’s Lisbon shirt is your classic, relaxed check button-down. The SoCal skate and surf-inspired brand does everyday digs like this for those who actually get out there and get their hands dirty. Visit Brixton directly where the Lisbon sells for $54.
Maiden Noir
Seattle’s Maidon Noir is a sure-fire way to nail a few humble brags this spring. The small brand produces limited numbers, uses exclusive fabrics and manufactures in Japan—making it a menswear trifecta. The Selvage Field Shorts are made with a selvage chambray with adjustable side pulls for the perfect fit sans belt. Visit Maiden Noir directly to pick up a pair for $150.
M.Nii
If you’re an avid CH reader, you’ll know the story behind revived surf brand M.Nii. As a nod to pin-striping, the Los Angeles-made San ‘O Stripe Oxford SS is a nice surf-inspired take on the ever so necessary white Oxford. Clean and simple with just a hint of disregard, the pure cotton shirt may just be the best office-to-after-hours transition piece on the list. Find it from M.Nii directly for $175.
Folk
That clever piece to slowly integrate into your spring and summer wardrobes, the Tomaz Short from London-based Folk are loud but thoughtful. Plus, the varied assortment of semi-muted colors allows them to fit well with a wide range of styles. Check out Folk directly to find the Tomaz for £115.
Images courtesy of their respective retailers
