Staying in style this summer

It's summer, and inevitably we'll all be off somewhere. Whether you're the sort of man who likes to experience the great outdoors first-hand with camping and hiking or are more into a jaunt across the Channel to enjoy the European weather and culture, it's all about (to roll out the phrase) being prepared. Nothing complicated - just knowing what you'll need to look good without compromising on actually being practical. So from pulling out your wallet to rocking up with the right bag, we've got you covered with our summer essentials to help enjoy the weather in style. 

Fossil Inc. have always done a great job of combining the roughed-up vintage look with superior quality designs, and their latest wallets are no exception. The 'Alpine' travel wallet combines a classic design with American-inspired lining and everything you'll need to keep those travel essentials together. 

Fossil 'Alpine' Leather Wallet, £60

None of us like to have more bags than our partner, but in the summer just as with your wardrobe it's important to have a lighter option for your bag. Calvin Klein have some stylish new PVC messenger bags that combine their iconic look with a lighter feel - ideal for those hot summer days.

Calvin Klein Jeans bag, £65

If you're more interested in an outdoors holiday, you don't have to compromise on looking good. The Herschel Supply Co. have a wide range of men's backpacks inspired by vintage American designs yet built to a superb standard to suit any active lifestyle.

The Herschel Supply Co. 'Heritage' backpack, £55

Finally, the ubiquitous holdall (or duffel bag, if you prefer) is a must for any getaway. London-based brand Simon Carter has been taking men's fashion forward since their inception. If you're looking for a bold new look, you can't go wrong with his avant-garde inspired accessories.

Simon Carter canvas holdall, £145

Spotlight on men's wallets

The ubiquitous wallet is something few of us ever really consider, but it's more than just a convenient way to hold your money. They've been around since the late fourteenth century, and the word 'wallet' was around even as far back as Ancient Greece. Today they've evolved into a variety of styles and designs to suit all tastes and lifestyles while retaining the practical features we all need.

Some of our personal favourites are from the esteemed British designer Tumble & Hide. Born in Britain and inspired by Italy, their designs use genuine unblemished Italian calf leather hand-made using time-honoured techniques for a reliable and traditional feel with a modern twist.

Brown Italian Leather 6-Card Money Clip Wallet from Tumble & Hide, £30 at Pure Luxuries

One of today's leading wallet designers, Fossil combine a unique vintage aesthetic with modern styles and builds to create a series of unique accessories that stand out from the crowd. Complete with their collectible designer gift tins, Fossil's contemporary wallets are a bold alternative.

'Brooks' Vintage Leather Traveller Wallet from Fossil, £34 at Pure Luxuries

The complete antithesis to other wallets, Dosh designs are a completely new take on the classic wallet. Their bold accessories are made from desmopan, a waterproof and highly durable material before being coloured in a bold combination that makes a statement without being over-the-top. Striking and stylish, Dosh wallets are a glimpse into what the future of the wallet might hold.

Navy Desmopan 'Yacht' Wallet from Dosh, £49.95 at Pure Luxuries

One of the UK's foremost upcoming designers, Conkca specialise in bold designs that combine an eminently practical design with a sleek and fashionable look. Their unique designs are tailored for the active lifestyle -  as their motto goes, Conkca's wallets are 'Designed for Impact'.

Multi-Function 12 Card Slots Leather Wallet from Conkca, £35 at Pure Luxuries

Get in touch and let us know what you favour for your wallet, or where you see this classic design going in a few years time. I believe we'll see the design adapt to electronic banking - as phones and cards become more popular for even small purchases, the wallet will change to accommodate these methods of payment. We'll see fewer coin pockets and note sections, sure, but the wallet will live on.

-Ben