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Every day of every month at GQ, we start your morning on Instagram with visual advice on What to Wear Today. But we want to go deeper. Give you the nuts and bolts of how to get the look into your wardrobe. Today, a guide to warm weather dating style that won't leave you looking too casual.
Navigating singledom in warm weather can be its own special kind of challenge. What if you sweat too much? What if the restaurant has really aggressive air conditioning? You want to be comfortable so you can enjoy yourself, but you also want to bring your A-game. And if you're thinking about wearing a pair of shorts on a get together when the sun is still out, you need to know a few simple things to keep you from looking like you just don't care.
Keep 'em Classy:
Even a day date deserves some special wardrobe consideration. Your shorts should be tailored and made of a natural fabric that isn't nylon, mesh, or basically anything resembling basketball shorts or a swimsuit.
Watch Your Length:
This depends somewhat on your height, but a general rule of thumb is that the hem of your shorts should hit you somewhere between one and two inches above your knees. Too long and you'll look sloppy, too short and you'll look like you're headed to the beach.
Dress Them Up:
When it comes to what you wear with your shorts, choose pieces that will elevate the whole situation. A simple oxford shirt and cotton cardigan will dress shorts up without cancelling their chill. And the extra layer is your best defense against chilly AC or embarrassing pits stains.
Prep Your Legs, and Feet:
Before you show off your lower appendages, make sure they are worthy of being seen. Self tanner (yes, but with caution) and a quick pedicure will go a long way.
Sweater: Club Monaco, $200, available at mrporter.com
Shirt: Gant, $135, available at gant.com
Shorts: Apolis, $148, available at apolisglobal.com
Sandals: Birkenstock, $39
Bracelet: Miansai, $78, available at miansai.com