How to style summer's 7 hottest trends for guys

From all-white denim to key ’90s pieces and tonal dressing, these are spring’s trends for men.

We try out seven of the hottest spring trends for men. From real ’90s classics like bucket hats and cargo pants to all-white denim and bursts of floral, here's how to style these looks for the season ahead.
Written by Jocelyn Stiebel

1. The cargo pant

The AW19 menswear runways were filled with baggy, billowing pants, and we're here for this major '90s comeback. From Marni to Off-White and Jacquemus, the proof is in the pudding that cargo pants are in. If embracing the full-on baggy look is a little daunting, then opt for a version that’s elasticated at the bottom. This will streamline the silhouette and help to take away the bulk at the bottom. Ditch the T-shirt and team your cargos with a button-up shirt and a sporty pair of sneakers.

Do: get yourself a fun printed bucket hat which will add another '90s-inspired element to the look.

JX striped shirt 349.95; JX jogger 399.95; Vans socks (set of 3) 299.95; Puma sneakers 1699.95; bucket hat and accessories stylist’s own

2. All-white or cream

Tonal white dominated the SS19 menswear runways and is by far one of the most sophisticated and wearable trends to come around in a while. Take your cue from Junya Watanabe with a look that's opulent while looking crisp and fresh at the same time. The utility pockets scream not just '90s but also major practicality. Roll up the hems of your pants to show off your socks.

Do: mix cream and white. They are a stylish combination and a certified spring/summer look!

JX denim jacket 699.95; JX cargo denim jeans 499.95; JX basic T-shirt 119.95; JX sunglasses 129.99; watch 299; Vans socks (set of 3) 299.95; Reebok sneakers 1099; accessories stylist’s own

3. Floral shorts

Flowers make everyone happy, including guys. So don’t be afraid to get festive this spring with a pair of floral shorts. Bring this trend into 2019 by pairing it with a dark button-up top (instead of a Polo with a popped collar circa 2002). A button-up will take focus away from the casualness of the shorts, and add a little formality to the overall look.

Do: add cool accessories like a moonbag and socks with slides (also a major trend) to make your outfit unique.

D66 formal shirt 269.95; JX floral shorts 299.95; Pro-Action belt bag 149.95; Vans socks (set of 3) 299.95; Reef slides 699; accessories stylist own

4. Pink

If the latest Spring collection by Christian Dior is anything to go by, then pink for men is totally in! We love artistic director and designer, Kim Jones's tonal take on pink using various shades and textures – the modern way for men to wear the colour. If you want to add a little edge to break up the soft tones of pink, look to black accessories like a cool pair of trainers.

Do: wear a pair of socks pulled all the way up; they will be the difference between a sporty look and a preppy look.

JX basic T-shirt 109.95; JX board shorts 259.95; Falke socks 130; Nike Defline sneakers 1099.95; accessories stylist’s own

5. Clashing prints

Look to The Fresh Prince of Bel Air for major print-clashing inspo! While we loved his interpretation of the trend back in the '90s, the 2019 take requires a lot more sophistication. It’s less about the actual prints and more about the fit – baggy clothes just won’t cut it. We love a stripe as a base – stripes work with pretty much all other prints and make it easy to start the clashing fun.

Do: use a staple like a denim jacket to incorporate a little solidity into the outfit.

JX denim jacket 799.95; JX Versace-inspired printed T-shirt 199.95; JX striped shorts 299.95; Vans socks (set of 3) 299.95; JX sneakers 399.95

6. The printed shirt

Forget the notion that loud menswear is obnoxious and attention seeking. That kind of thinking is outdated and boring – again, just ask The Fresh Prince of Bel Air. We’re embracing the printed shirt trend because it’s fun and warm-weather inspired – this season favours the bold! The great thing about a printed shirt is that is can be casual or smart. For a smart-casual look, like this, all you need is a pair of dark trousers or pants and you’re good to go. Add a fun pair of socks that represent your personality.

Do: wear a pair of brogues (keeping the printed socks) for a more formal look.

JX printed casual shirt 349.95; D66 chinos 399.95; Puma beanie 249.95; Ray-Ban sunglasses 2190; Reebok sneakers 899.95; accessories and socks stylist’s own

7. Dungarees

Another ’90s favourite! Dungarees, overalls, boiler suits… Whatever you choose to call them, they were everywhere back then. TLC, Will Smith and The Fugees were frequently spotted sporting the all-in-one; even the late, great Tupac embraced this unlikely trend. Vogue says that overalls have a history of being the chosen clothes for working men in the 18th century; since then it has remained a functional garment hence its utilitarian design features. And if you want real proof that this trend is back to offer us even more, then look no further than the Supreme and The North Face collaboration last year.

Do: pair yours with a simple T-shirt underneath, as the dungaree is a bold garment already. And a baseball cap will finish off the outdoorsy look nicely.
Don’t: go for a trucker cap or snapback, as this will resonate cliched '90s instead of the stylish '90s-inspired trends we’re seeing today.

JX basic T-shirt 109.95; JX denim dungarees 799.95; JX sunglasses 149.99; watch 249.99; Falke socks 130; Nike ‘Airmax’ sneakers 1399.95; cap stylist’s own

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Fashion editor: Brittany Penebre. Junior fashion editor: Rushana Burton. Photography: Jacobus Snyman. Grooming: Cheryl Parker/SNCM. Model: Josef/The Circle.

All items subject to availability. Prices may change.