Recently I did a video with a couple friends called "The Motley Crew of Hell's Kitchen." Look for it on Youtube I'll also link it at the bottom of this post. In the video I talk about the 5 essentials to amp up your summer wardrobe. The post is based around menswear and how to find items that will help you upgrade your look this coming season.

Today's post is an offset of that episode where I'll dive into the subject matter with a little more efficiency.

The first Item on the list was sunglasses. In the video I said try the H&M tortoise frames they had in store. Though those are great Forever 21 seems to have the monopoly on affordable but functional pairs. These 2 pairs are a good 4 dollars less than the 12$ pair from H&M.

The second item I had on the list was a great summer shoe. A good shoe can definitely make whatever look you're going for hit the right spot.

I chose 3 options to choose from. Not every guy is the same and I think knowing your style could help as well. Also maybe the selections I pick could help you branch out of your style comfort zone. New Balance's have really been on the come up ever since they've been integrated into more mainstream fashion scenes. The Birkenstock has made its resurgence ever since scene girls and It girls have made it their Coachella main shoe. And of course the gladiator sandal for the guy who is more risky in his style.

Also on the list was a light weight shirt. A great shirt is a Summer essential because of the many ways you can style it. While at H&M I chose a striped linen shirt. But for this post I'm going to go with a Chambray piece. The chambray (cousin of denim) is light weight but gives you the illusion of a denim shirt. JCrew is known for their chambray. And as someone who frequents JCrew I approve.

Up next the Summer hat. With Summer comes sun. It's inevitable, they walk hand and hand like peanut butter and jelly. So in trying to stay cool you should try and look the part as well. The 2 hats I found come from Urban Outfittters and are perfect for this season.

You want wide brimmed and good for coverage and you also want a baseball cap. Both functional and look good too. Try styling them like Instagramer Rahmeet.

My final essential is the bright and stylized short. Of course with Summer a stylish pair of shorts will be your selling point. That's why I made it last. Finding a great pair can be tricky but put your best foot forward and you'll definitely find a great pair.

Seerscuker is a sure bet. it's light weight and comes in many colors, but finding a bold color like yellow doesn't hurt at all...

All and all these 5 essentials are just my opinion and you can or cannot agree your choice. But if you think I missed anything tell me in the comments below.

Also here's the video that gave the inspiration for this post!