We show you how to make a splash with the best in surfing style
Gentleman’s Journal take you to the beaches of Cape Town to model the beach-ready looks of the SS18 collections
Words: Jonathan Wells
Photography: John Rowley
Heading to the beach this summer? Of course you are. But, before you spend your entire summer topping up your tan, enjoying the sand between your toes and working your way through that stack of unread paperbacks, allow us to point you in the direction of the waves.
"Allow us to point you in the direction of the waves..."
Surfing is arguably the coolest summertime pastime. With the barrels and the breaks beckoning you into the sea, you probably can’t wait to strip down and get surfing. But style is as important on the waves as on the beach — and here’s how to get it right.
It’s not all flip-flops and swim shorts
First thing’s first, don’t underpack. It’s far too tempting when heading to the beach to just throw a towel around your shoulders, slip on some sliders and take off. But, as hot as it may seem, there’ll be a need at the end of the day for more substantial shoes and maybe even a jumper.
To this end, despite the fact that your swim shorts are important — and you should invest in a subtly-pattern pair like these from Derek Rose — it’s also important not to neglect your outerwear. Opt for a simple hoodie, Gant do a great one, and a pair of classic sneakers, like this handmade North 89 pair, to slip on in the evening.
The best way to make a statement is with stripes
Okay, let’s make our way to the waves. You want to stand out among the surf — if not for your shredded beach body, then for your smart style choices. And our favourite way to make a splash is with a striped pair of swim shorts.
Surely Sunspel, who have perfected the pattern in a bold horizontal pink and white, deserve their time in the water. Similarly, Acne Studios’ multicoloured stripes will get those tanned heads turning. But, if you’re hitting up Cornwall, these shorts may be a little too ‘Copacabana’. In that instance, why not opt for Orlebar Brown’s subtler stripe?
This summer is all about dark patterned trunks
We realise that, if you’ve not had enough time to top up your tan this summer, then a pair of dark trunks threaten to make you look like the pastiest man on the powdery beach. And no-one wants that. But, for those of us who are blessed with easily-bronzed skin, there’s a new trend in town: patterned dark trunks.
Gucci are, of course, leading the charge with these embroidered jacquard swim shorts, but we’re also a massive fan of Thom Browne’s offering — an incredibly subtle pair of trunks trimmed in the label’s signature striped grosgrain. Or, if you like the darker look, but want to keep patterns out of it, go to trusty Orlebar Brown, and their retro chic Dane swim shorts.
A couple should subtly match their swimwear
There’s nothing worse than wearing clothes that exactly match your partner’s — and that extends to the beach. But a subtle nod to the fact that you’re together never goes amiss, and that’s exactly the style we’ve gone for here.
The nautical look is never out, and Frescobol Carioca know it with these Copacabana swim shorts. There’s nod to a similar style from Heidi Klein with this white and navy bikini, and you can top both looks off with a pair of unisex sunglasses from Cubitts.
If you buy one thing for your girlfriend, make it a one piece
If your significant other is the type to head straight for the surf, then there’s nothing better than a cool swimsuit to gift her before your break. Here, we turned to Heidi Klein for some inspiration. And, as with the above, we can’t resist a nautical theme. White swimsuit, navy stripes, gold detailing — you really can’t go wrong.
Linen shirts are the perfect beach cover-up
Unless you’re Beckham, sarongs and kaftans are off the table when it comes to beachside cover-ups. And, if it’s still too hot to reach for that hoodie you packed, there’s nothing better than a linen shirt to keep the sun off your shoulders. But make sure it pairs well with those swim shorts…
Vilebrequin are our go-to brand here. Sticking to blues and whites, you won’t go wrong. That relaxed collar and patch pocket will afford you the easy-going spirit of Saint-Tropez in the ‘70s. Or, to take inspiration from the Italians, go for Luca Faloni.
Even if you’re not hitting the waves, dive into surfing style
It could be a day at the pool, or it could just be a wander around the coast, but even if you’re not planning on diving in yourself, there’s nothing stopping you taking some inspiration from surfing style — especially in this heat.
From Orlebar Brown, this half-placket shirt is the perfect lightweight piece to keep you cool in every sense of the world. Similarly, Frescobol Carioca’s slim fit shirt is cut to have a formal edge, while retaining that breathable comfort. For women, why not throw a pair of shorts on over a Heidi Klein one-piece, and you’ve got an instant go-to summer look.
Photography By John Rowley. Hair & Make up by Lisa Valencia using Bobbi Brown & Kiehl’s. Styling by Holly Macnaghten.
Models: Craig Le Roux, Francesca Cosh, Liam Vandiar & Wim de Kerk all at Boss Models Cape Town.
Shot on location at Lundudno Beach, Cape Town. Surf hire from Cape Town Long Street.
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