Your summer wardrobe needs more than a decent pair of swim shorts. A proper poolside kit that carries you from the sun lounger to a late lunch takes a bit more thought.
This guide covers every piece you need, from the brands worth backing to the finishing touches that pull the whole look together. Check out some of our favourites:
Stylish Swim Shorts
Swim shorts are the foundation of your poolside look, so getting them right matters. Here’s how the key brands stack up.
HUGO keeps things clean and contemporary. The HUGO Dominica Swim Shorts come in navy and black — easy to style, easy to wear. If you want something with a bit more presence, the HUGO Noah Swim Shorts feature a bold cut and premium finish.
BOSS goes wider with its range. The BOSS Iconic Swim Shorts deliver a tailored silhouette in black, navy, and pink, while the Starfish and Swordfish styles offer a more relaxed fit.
Fred Perry stays true to its roots — timeless styling with those instantly recognisable logo details. The French Navy colourway is a particular standout this season.
Lacoste keeps it crisp. Clean cuts, summer colourways, and the iconic crocodile logo make their swim shorts a solid pick.
Ralph Lauren brings that laid-back luxury feel. The Traveller Swim Shorts – available in white and blue – offer quality that holds up holiday after holiday.
Emporio Armani is the choice for premium style. The Boxer Swim Shorts come in an impressive range of colours this season, from understated navy and black to vivid yellow and orange.
Designer Sliders and Sandals
The right footwear matters more than most men think. A good pair of sliders or sandals ties the whole look together and keeps you comfortable across long, hot days.
Birkenstock has become the go-to sandal for men who care about both comfort and credibility. The Birkenstock Arizona EVA Sandals in khaki are a reliable all-rounder – lightweight, durable, and versatile enough to wear beyond the pool.
For branded poolside footwear, the BOSS Aryeh Sliders in beige or blue are an easy win. The Lacoste Serve Sliders deliver that classic sports-luxury feel in black, white, and navy.
Ralph Lauren Logo Sliders step things up a gear with premium construction and that polished Polo branding. For something more understated, Fred Perry Logo Sliders and adidas Originals Adilette Sliders both hold their own.
Lightweight T-shirts and Tops
The best poolside T-shirt is one you barely notice you’re wearing. Breathable, light, and effortlessly stylish.
The BOSS Slim Fit Beach T-Shirt in grey was made for this. It sits neatly between casual and put-together – exactly what you need when you’re moving from the pool to the bar.
The HUGO 3 Pack Crew Neck T-Shirts offer great value and easy layering options, while the Ralph Lauren 3 Pack Short Sleeve T-Shirts bring unmistakable quality to the simplest outfits.
Complete Your Poolside Look
This is where the detail comes in. A bucket hat or cap does more than just block the sun – it frames the whole outfit. Round things off with a pair of quality sunglasses, and you’re sorted.
Poolside Holiday Essentials in Every Size
Every piece mentioned above – and hundreds more – are available in Mainline’s Holiday Essentials range, which runs from XS through to 6XL. Whether you’re building a full new summer wardrobe or just filling in a few gaps, the full edit is in one place.
Ready to get pool-ready? Shop the full summer collection.
