The authentic and timeless world of Ralph Lauren
August 2025
RL/Men

Out of Office

A summer destination style-and-packing guide
Summer’s back half is the season of the out-of-office message and the last-minute getaway—a time to slow down and take a few days to explore before the weather turns. But doing it right means packing right. To help alleviate the burden that can sometimes be, we’ve put together a few choice selections from the current season that cover just about everything, from a laid-back day at the beach and the “black-tie optional” affair to a little urban exploration or a hike up some mountain trailheads. Consider each of the entries below as a complete packing list, minus the sleep mask and toothbrush. —Eric Twardzik
ON THE TOWN
Linen shirts and trousers provide a cool foundation for daytime dressing in the city and can be built up with lightweight suede or linen outerwear when the evening calls for added warmth—or refinement. Artfully deployed accessories like a loosely tied polka-dot scarf or a dress watch add further panache without weighing the wearer down.
40 MM Vintage 67 Opalin Silver Dial
Alston Leather Penny Loafer
SHORE THINGS
Seersucker swim trunks, drawstring linen trousers, and even denim carpenter shorts all have their place as part of a well-rounded beach day. Bring along a plush cotton terry Polo shirt or a nautical striped T-shirt to soak up those last drops like a towel, and throw in a lightweight cable-knit sweater in case the breeze kicks up at sunset.
Classic Fit Striped Jersey T-Shirt
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH
Taking a long hike at the height of summer calls for a combination of pieces that can be layered. There’s the predawn ascent in the cool air; the blood-rushing arrival at the summit; and the sunny in-between. A classic look that’s both made for the task and inspired by the great American outdoors would include a slub jersey Henley and cargo pants (or shorts) as a base and a featherweight puffer jacket or vest to pull on and off depending on the conditions.
Classic Fit Mineral-Dyed Mesh Polo Shirt
The Colden Packable Down Gilet
Signature Pony Cotton-Blend Crew Socks
POP OFF
That special summer fête you’ve made the trip for can be toasted in a navy tuxedo jacket worn with a lightweight pair of wool trousers in a perfect shade of cream. Add a silk handkerchief or bow tie, depending on the formal vibe, or pair that jacket with jeans instead, if the setting calls for a look that’s both rugged and refined.
Pleated Wool Barathea Trouser
Custom Fit French Cuff Tuxedo Shirt
Paxton Velvet Slipper
Polka Dot Silk Repp Bow Tie
ERIC TWARDZIK is a writer with a deep reverence for things that get better with age, from tweed jackets to single-malt Scotch. He has contributed to titles including GQ, Esquire, and Condé Nast Traveler and serves as deputy editor of Wm Brown magazine. He lives in New England with his family and owns too many ties.
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