1 Look, 2 Budgets: Melted Ice Cream

Melted Ice Cream
1 Look, 2 Budgets

Summer in the city is heating up. Time for a break, even if just for a moment.

men's summer outfit green shorts, henley, denim shirt, canvas sneakers

denim shirt over henley

Light Wash Denim Shirt

The denim shirt is like the final lightweight layer in the hierarchy after shirt jackets, light jackets, and sweaters. It has more structure than a regular shirt so it doesn't come off like you're wearing your American Eagle plaid shirt unbuttoned circa 10th grade.

See how else we've worn it:

levi's denim shirt
Budget
Levi's, $69.50

Levi's Barstow shirt has long been a staple in their line. The shirt I'm wearing is from Gap from a previous season, but I have the Barstow in a dark wash that I love.

taylor stitch denim shirt
Upgrade
Taylor Stitch, $125

Made of heavy organic cotton, Taylor Stitch's take on the western denim shirt features unique slanted chest pockets.

man and dog in car

The Short Sleeve Henley

Somehow both classic and modern, the short sleeve henley should be a first choice for any t-shirt faring summer days.

old navy henley
Budget
Old Navy, $14 / Amazon, $10

The slub knit of these henleys provides subtle divots, lines, and textures in the fabric making them come across as more premium than the standard thick cotton t-shirts you normally find for $10.

buck mason henley
Upgrade
Buck Mason, $48

Would you pay $50 for a shirt if you knew it was going to become your new favorite? Buck Mason's henleys have a bunch of details like the wide arm band and curved hem plus a premium Pima fabric that has a wonderful drape.

man wearing green shorts

Drawstring Shorts

In the last few years drawstring shorts have evolved out of the ocean and onto dry land thanks to their all-day comfort and hot weather defense.

Quick dry dock short
Budget
Amazon, $21 (provided)

Almost identical to the J.Crew shorts visually, these beach shorts come with an interior mesh liner that I cut out.

j.crew dock short
Upgrade
J.Crew, $70

The Tech Dock Short offers a 6″ inseam, that thanks to the cut and fabric doesn't feel short at all and offers unencumbered movement on those hot, sticky days.

Los Angeles skyline

sperry canvas sneaker

Canvas Sneakers

Summer form meet summer function in a classic low top canvas sneaker. They're breathable, look intentional, and can be throw in the washing machine when they get stinky.

sperry canvas sneaker
Budget
Sperry, $40 (provided)

The faded black color on these Sperrys has an end-of-summer boardwalk vibe a crisp pair of Vans doesn't have.

nothing new sneakers
Spend
Nothing New, $95

These sustainable sneakers are made up 5.6 recycled plastic bottles and a recycled rubber sole. Plus, they're constructed with actual stitching instead of the cement you find on most cheaper sneakers.

looking over Los Angeles
eating ice cream
dog eating ice cream
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Andrew Snavely

Andrew founded Primer in 2008 and brings 15+ years of men's style expertise. Known for his practical, relatable approach to style and self-development, he has been a recognized speaker at conferences and has styled work for top brands. Off-duty, he loves photography & editing, and enjoys road trips with his dog, Leela. Raised in rural Pennsylvania, educated in DC, and living in LA for nearly 20 years, Andrew's diverse experiences shape the relatable and real-world advice that has helped millions through Primer. On Instagram: @andrewsnavely and @primermagazine.