Le Haute Trend Report

Summer Style – This Season’s Guide To Standing Out In The City

By Jon Salas

Year after year, once summer arrives, what do we do New Yorkers do? We leave – we go to enjoy our summer plans elsewhere despite spending long arduous months complaining about the colder months. This year however, New York has turned into the place to be, where everyone is flocking to see and be seen. Perhaps it’s the Knicks fever, a little world cup charm, or maybe we’re finally not taking the city for granted and listening to our doc and having our daily serving of an apple a day. Whatever it is, New York is the ‘it’ destination of the summer and part of the allure of being in the city is showing up in style. Because if there’s one thing that characterizes us New Yorkers is that we’re a stylish crew. A few trends we’re seeing this season…

Sports Pandemonia – A Haute Way To Pull Off Jersey / Fan Attire
This year will go down as the year where sports where king in the city, and the result is a manifestation of jerseys and fanatic motifs. Whether for basketball, soccer, MLB or yes, even NFL – sports jerseys and inspired tops are impossible to avoid at every corner’s turn. And while these garments are very casual – there is a way to show your support and look elevated. The secret is contrasted balance. If wearing a jersey or sports tee, consider pairing it with an oversized, loose-fitting trouser and belt, along with some sleek, simple, sneakers or closed-toe shoes. For ladies, a heel adds further caché to the ensemble. This is a high-low combination that provides visual contrast and immediately makes a sports shirt look expensive and polished, fit for a day of cheering on the streets and a dinner at Cipriani or The Lobster Club. Avoid jeans and shorts as this will further ‘casualize’ your outfit. Another clever option to show team support is to entirely bypass the jerseys and take inspiration from your team’s colors and curate an outfit inspired by their signature hues.


Living In Linen – Summer’s Favorite Textile Is Back
While normally we’re packing those linen favorites into our trucks and suitcases for beach club evenings, this summer they’re on the menu for a night out in the city. Unstructured blazers, button-up blouses, and lightweight, breezy trousers in neutral, earthy tones dominate formal warm-weather wear for both men and women. And it’s easy to see why as they’re comfortable and breathable, and linen’s natural flowing approach to tailoring provides a sharp, sophisticated look without feeling stiff. From Banana Republic and Suit Supply to Zegna and Zara, there’s no shortage of options from where to pick up some linen staples this season.


Living In Color – Hues That Bring A ‘Cool’ Factor
While we love our NY uniform of black – leave that dark tone behind with winter. And if you must tap a neutral, white is the way to go. This summer is about having fun and breaking out bolder hues like vibrant greens, blues, yellows, pinks and every shade in between. And it’s not just because the colors are trending, there’s science to back what colors keep you cool. Dark fabrics, especially black, absorb nearly all visible light and convert it directly into heat, which can make your shirt up to 18° F to 27° F hotter than a white shirt in direct sunlight. White on the other hand is a heat repellant while yellow is highly reflective and historically shown to absorb the second least amount of heat. Pastels are also a great option to navigate those heatwave days while looking in vogue.


And For A Step In The Right Direction, Slip Into Espadrilles
Espadrilles are a seasonal favorite and back on trend this summer as they perfectly balance vacation-ready comfort with chic, polished versatility. With the rise of vintage aesthetics, espadrilles are a great option that are traditional, breathable, and comfortable. From full-on flat styles for men to low-wedge styles for women, espadrilles are a summer essential the same way raffia totes and aviator shades are a can’t miss accessory for summer jet set style. From Rothy’s and Soludos to Ralph Lauren and Jimmy Choo – one walk down Madison and you’ll have no shortage of options for this summer footwear staple.

Overall, Summer is about becoming comfortable with taking risks and being comfortable in general because after a few hours out in the sun no matter what you’re sporting, everything will begin to weigh. The key is to have fun and use style advice as a NorthStar for building any outfit but ultimately, the secret tool to any look is bringing through your individual personality and showing up in the best version of you – that’s what truly makes New Yorkers cool. So go forth and live your best NY summer ever and remember this season the world is watching so let’s give them a stylish summer to remember.