Shoes For Different Summer Occasions

In some ways, it’s easier to dress your feet in winter. It’s cold and raining and everyone’s wearing jeans. You can throw on some military boots, or Chelseas, or leather chukkas, and pretty much stomp around for three months. But summer is a little trickier. One day you’ll be down at the beach, then at a garden cocktail party, then Christmas lunch, then (if you’re very lucky) on a yacht sipping fruity drinks with little umbrellas in them. Your feet need to be ready for anything, and it’s way too hot for most men’s boots.

So we thought we’d throw together this guide to men’s summer shoes. Every shoe you could ever need for your sunny, summer wardrobe. Thongs not included.

Just to be clear, we’re talking garden events, not shoes for gardening (if you’re here looking for gardening shoes, we humbly suggest rubber Crocs). Summer is the season for garden parties, engagement parties and al fresco events, so your feet need to be ready. There are a few ways you can go here: loafers, Derbies or monk straps.

Full-on Oxfords and Brogues are a bit too formal and starchy for a summer garden party. Try casual suede casual shoes instead (like the BREEZE) or some sockless ELLIOT penny loafers. Brown monks straps, like the MERRETT, are also a good bet. When it comes to the outfit, simply chuck on some tan or navy dress chinos (neatly cuffed), a good leather belt, jacquard floral shirt and a light blazer. You’ll be making awkward small talk in no time.

The Dartmouth Forest Multi Loafers

There’s nothing wrong with thongs for the beach, but sometimes you want beach followed by something else. The pub, a nice restaurant, a beer garden, an evening event. Thongs aren’t going to cut it for most of those. You need something a bit more substantial. Espadrilles are one of our favourite summer beach shoes (they can also work great for picnics, longs drives and casual events). These are a great pick when it comes to men’s summer shoes with shorts.

You could also invest in a pair of luxury sandals. Something like the HANCOCK will obviously work at the beach but, with cotton shorts and a white linen shirt, you could also wear them to a backyard barbecue. Remember: men’s summer shoes are all about versatility. You don’t want to carry three pairs in your car every time you head outside. That’s what makes luxury beach slides so practical.

Casual shoes have been a go-to choice for effortless summer style since at least the 1930s. Part of their appeal is the comfort factor—you can slip them on and off with ease, and many styles don’t require socks. Whether you opt for loafers, espadrilles, or relaxed sneakers, casual shoes are designed for versatility, pairing well with chinos, linen shorts, or even cuffed jeans. If you’re planning to spend time by the coast, at weekend barbecues, or just strolling through the city, investing in a solid pair of casual shoes is a smart move. Classic suede loafers in soft tones like the BREEZE or tan are always a safe bet, but don’t be afraid to go with leather loafers like the GIACOMO in dark borwn. When it comes to styling, keep things light and effortless—think cotton shorts, an open linen shirt, and a pair of timeless sunglasses for that easygoing, summer-ready look.

Aquila collection of Summer Casual Shoes

Picnics are going to be popular again this summer, and there’s a bunch of men’s casual summer shoes to choose from. Personally, we like slip-on shoes for picnics. You don’t have to go the full leather penny loafer (that might look a bit too formal), but some casual slip-ons like the BORA, HANCOCK or BORA SLIP ONS are all perfect. You want something you can slide on and off; something that will let you feel the grass between your toes. Men’s sneakers are also a safe play, as are espadrilles and boat shoes. Just avoid anything too formal or too bulky. Lace-ups like Derby shoes aren’t really made for sitting cross-legged on a picnic rug. You want comfort first, with a pinch of style. Men’s summer shoes are all about dressing for the occasion.

The Hancock Grey Sandals

Driving shoes were originally made to grip the pedals of vintage Italian roadsters. Today, they’re sort of the sporty cousin of the loafer. Their comfy, sockless fit and textured rubber soles make them perfect for long road trips, but you can actually wear them to all sorts of summer events. Garden parties, picnics, Christmas lunch, the beer garden, backyard barbecues.

They’re an incredibly versatile men’s casual summer shoe. Just remember the rules of loafers: no socks (unless they’re invisible ones) and light, summery layers on top. Some tan chino shorts and a button-up shirt, or maybe the cuffed chinos, casual shirt and linen blazer combo. Throw in a canvas weekender bag and you’re ready for a summer roadtrip.