Good/Better/Best

Seersucker Shorts

Seersucker has long since earned its spot on the Mount Rushmore of summer fabrics. Traditionally made from cotton, it's woven in such a way that the threads bunch together, giving the fabric a crinkly, puckered appearance. The benefit of this intentional crumpling? It allows air to flow more freely and prevents it from sticking to your skin. The name derives from the Persian phrase “shir-o-shakhar”, meaning “milk and sugar” for the alternating textures.

They might not be your first thought when you think of easygoing shorts. That's okay. But man can't survive solely on nylon Baggies and chino shorts, right? As prep returns to mainstream menswear, it's got a slight dirtbag edge this time. And these shorts, cut from a traditional fabric—but in a more easygoing silhouette with an elasticized waistband—are seersucker shorts that just feel right. But who makes the best pair for your money? We tried on a handful to bring three sweet styles to fit any budget.

You often hear that summer is the hardest season to dress for—and there's definitely some truth to that statement. But just because it's hot and humid outside, doesn't mean you can't look sharp and put together when you leave the comforts of air conditioning. Yes, you're wearing less clothing overall, but if you choose wisely you can breeze through the dog days with cool confidence. The key is upgrading your summer wardrobe with seasonal staples built for ultimate breathability and lightweight accessories that add intriguing details while also helping you sweat less. We've worked with the styling team at MR PORTER to put together some suggestions to maximize breathability and comfort without sacrificing elegance.