Ben Dahlhaus shares his summer style essentials
From a Ralph Lauren overshirt to a classic American Stetson, the German model and actor reveals his seasonal wardrobe staples…
Words: Jonathan Wells
Photography: Marie Schmidt
Summer has always been kind to Ben Dahlhaus. How could it not be? Just look at him. The tan! The surfer’s scruff of a beard! The tousled, golden hair! This man was made for the summer season; a male model who the sun has most definitely shone on.
And Dahlhaus’ talents extend beyond modelling. He’s looked down other lenses, for example; acting in German television series and several short films. He’s a proficient guitar player, an elegant skateboarder, a singer and a handball player. He even counts classic car driving as an interest (and drove for Gentleman’s Journal in last year’s Mille Miglia).
But the most impressive of this renaissance man’s sundry skills? A flair for fair-weather fashion. While many models rely on professional help to button, zip and lace up their singular, stylish looks, Dahlhaus has developed a personal aesthetic all of his own. He’s interested in the stories behind brands — and invests in every element of every outfit he owns.
That’s why, to see us stylishly out of summer, we turned to Dahlhaus for his fashion advice and favourite pieces of warm-weather menswear. And, from bold yellow T-shirt to a classic American Stetson, he delivered. Below, discover the ten garments and accessories Ben Dahlhaus deems his summer style essentials…
RRL by Ralph Lauren ‘Barrow’ Military Overshirt
Dahlhaus says: “This is one of my absolute standard, go-to basics that I like to wear almost every day. The rough quality is amazing, and it’s never out of style. It’s perfect for almost any climate you’ll find anywhere on the planet.”
We say: Military green and cut from durable herringbone twill cotton, there’s not a better, more versatile piece to kick off Dahlhaus’ list. It’s utilitarian, heritage-inspired and perfect for pairing with everything from a light jumper to a linen shirt.
Luca Faloni ‘Portofino’ Linen Shirt
Dahlhaus says: “You can never go wrong with a light blue linen shirt. It pairs well with linen trousers, or even a pair of swim shorts. It can be classy at night, but also easily worn at the beach. And it’s super-light and refreshing to wear on even the hottest summer day.”
We say: You heard the man. Super-light and super-versatile. Luca Faloni’s ‘Portofino’ shirt is a great choice from Dahlhaus; finished with the brand’s signature ‘Paramontura’ collar and subtly sophisticated mother of pearl buttons.
RRL by Ralph Lauren Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
Dahlhaus says: “I felt like I needed some more colour in my wardrobe — so yellow it was! This T-shirt by RRL has a nice sun-faded look, which gives it a vintage feeling. It’s perfect to pair with a field jacket and blue jeans, perhaps some nice leather boots. Ideal for a little 1970s vibe!”
We say: This is retro Ralph at its best. Sunny, simple and cut from soft cotton-jersey, it would pair perfectly with the RRL overshirt Dahlhaus picked out above. And that practical chest pocket? Ideal for sunglasses.
Hugo Boss Burnished Leather Trainers
Dahlhaus says: “Of course, we all want to find the pair of white sneakers. And, for me, these trainers from Hugo Boss are the best by far. I love to wear them with casual jeans or shorts — but also with a nice navy linen suit.”
We say: Low-top and laidback, this indeed is a very, very versatile pair of sneakers. Lined with cognac leather and finished in Italy with hand-applied burnishing, they’re a top choice from Dahlhaus; a do-all design.
Luca Faloni ‘Lipari’ Linen Trousers
Dahlhaus says: “Linen, linen linen! It always gives you that feeling of ease. But the quality of different linens can differ, so you might want to spend a little more. Buy these trousers — and you’ll only need one pair all summer long.”
We say: Like Dahlhaus says, good linen is worth the investment. And Luca Faloni knows more than most about this fine, summery fabric. The ‘Lipari’ trousers exemplify the softly sophisticated style; with a tapered fit and elegant button fastening.
Garrett Leight x Frescobol Carioca ‘Ace’ Sunglasses
Dahlhaus says: “Garrett Leight guarantees you some of the best shades for summer. The quality of the frames, as well as the lenses, is top notch — and I love the transparent style the brand created in collaboration with the great Frescobol Carioca. I absolutely love these!”
We say: We can see why. Partnering with Frescobol was a masterstroke by the Californian eyewear brand, and with this style the two companies attempted to “embody the coastal vibes of both Ipanema and Venice Beach”. It’s a job well done.
Frescobol Carioca ‘Thomas’ Camp-Collar Shirt
Dahlhaus says: “I love a nice, old-school camp collar. As well as being a great option for some casual time, they also make a perfect option for a late summer dinner.”
We say: Like the sunglasses above, Frescobol Carioca has stitched its signature laid-back, effortless elegance into this ‘Thomas’ shirt. Naturally breathable and lightweight, it’s another example of linen done well.
Birkenstock ‘Zürich’ Soft Suede Sandals
Dahlhaus says: “No summer is complete with a pair of sandals. But I’m not a big fan of the usual rubber or slider styles. This pair by Birkenstock, however, is a nice way to get some air to your feet on a hot day — without looking too touristy.”
We say: It takes a certain type of man to pull off sandals. But Dahlhaus knows that confidence is key to working anything in your wardrobe. Follow suit, buckle up — and these soft suede hybrid sandals will walk you all the way to autumn in style.
Closed ‘Cooper’ Tapered Jeans
Dahlhaus says: “I just love it when a brand combines perfect quality with eco-friendly production. Here, we can see just how possible it is to combine both — and these jeans remind us to all be on the look out for fairer fashion. Buy less; but buy quality — it’ll last longer!”
We say: White jeans, like the sandals above, can be a tricky look to pull off. But this quality ‘Cooper’ design from Closed combines strength, selvedge and a characteristic slub structure for an excellent summer option.
Stetson ‘Open Road’ Cattleman Hat
Dahlhaus says: “Last — but not least, something that brings a touch of California to the top of your head. I’m a huge fan of nice hats, and this casts shadow on sunny days, while giving you a little cowboy feeling on others. Add blue jeans, a white shirt and boots — and you’re done.”
We say: Stetson; a brand so reliable it has come to represent a whole style of hat. And Dahlhaus couldn’t have chosen better than this ‘Open Road’ design — a stiff-brimmed, subtly-ribboned rabbit fur hat in the timeless ‘cattleman’ shape.
Want more style advice? Here’s Johannes Huebl’s guide to a stylish summer…
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