THE RISE OF RESORT WEAR FOR MEN

Words by Lesego Ntsime | Images: Getty

The menswear wardrobe is relishing a takeover in the form of resort wear. A flavourful escape into exotic destinations; resort wear has been reserved for the womenswear section of every retail store -  until now. 

If you’re still a firm believer in swinging pendulums; the fashion pendulum has swung towards a crisp simplicity in menswear. A blend of practical silhouettes and versatile pairings promises to transform the way people approach style in a monumental manner. 

Resort wear finds its roots in the imagination. It conjures up, in our minds, all the places fashion can transport us to. Think Moroccan-inspired kaftans, tailoring reminiscent of Italian-chic fashion and cashmere knits designed with the Hamptons in mind. However, as the world grows ‘smaller’ due to interconnectedness, the presence of vacation-dressing grows larger in our wardrobes; exploring, once again, fashion’s ability to transcend space and time.

“Resort styles tend to be the most versatile ones in a wardrobe. Contrary to its location-specific name, it passages in everyday wardrobes. With the pandemic pushing people homewards, these silhouettes saw a new light outside the realm of holidays,” reflects Narresh Kukreja, creative director of resort wear label Shivan & Narresh.

As the days widen in length, our wardrobes call for the flexibility to take us from brunch to bar real quick. And what better way to do so than in a style aesthetic that inspires a sense of imagination, travel and ease? It’s about time you brought the vacation to you. 

RESORT TO THESE DETAILS:

Shirts are the cornerstone of any resort wardrobe. Play around with texture and colour, and swing from golfers to trusted cotton. Opt for a vest on those scorching hot days that usher in a bit of boldness. 

Bottoms are truly up when leaning into this style aesthetic. Well-tailored shorts, chinos and trousers add a certain panache to your ‘fits. 

Let your walking do the talking in easy footwear. Think sandals, cool loafers, trendy slides, clean kicks and the style staple for resort wear wardrobes worldwide: Birkenstocks. 

Are you really on vacation - even an imaginary one - without sunglasses? Capture the essence of vacation-style dressing with frames of your choice. 

After sunscreen comes fashionable protective gear: a hat. Complete your look with dashing fedoras and à la mode bucket hats.