Men’s must-haves for the Summer

By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net

While the fashions seen on the international runways can influence local trends in menswear to a certain degree, the deciding factor in a subtropical country like the Bahamas will always be the hot weather.

Men want to be stylish, but also comfortable. Therefore, two of this season’s must-have items for the modern Bahamian man are the “short shorts” and the “boxy, breathable shirts,” according to a local boutique owner.

“The heat of our Bahamaland requires it of us. Those two items can be styled up and down for a sophisticated or very casual look,” said Ryen Robinson Fox, co-owner of Bonneville Bones – a popular fashion house that has kept its finger on the pulse when it comes to men’s fashion for decades now.

“But my advice will always be to put comfort first,” she added.

Ryen feels men’s fashion is in a unique place at the moment, with more variety and styles to choose from than before. This can be credited to the fact that Bahamian men have become more outgoing and adventurous with their personal style.

“Depending on one’s age group and personal preference, the trends lean from one extreme

– ‘old money classic’ – to the next: ‘very casual, thrifted and athletic’,” she said.

Silhouettes, prints and hairstyles from the ’90s have had a big influence on current trends.

Some of those examples, Ryen said, are oversized, short and fitted bottoms, matching lounge sets, double-breasted suits, modern-fit suits, solid neckties, vintage T-shirts, full-length scrunch athletic socks with vintage sneakers.

And when it comes to colours, she said neutrals, pseudo-neutrals (shades like dark navy, forest green, pale yellow) and vibrant abstract prints are what’s hot right now.

Ryen has seen Bahamian menswear evolve in interesting ways.

“In recent times, the culture of men’s fashion in the Bahamas has evolved tremendously. Bahamian men have become more exposed and therefore more adventurous,” she said.

“This evolution has opened up individual expression through fashion for our men, and this open-mindedness is ever-increasing.”

But no matter what new styles are introduced, some things won’t ever change, said Ryen.

“Technology has made everything more accessible and therefore more variety is to be expected. However, the staples for men’s fashion will be here forever. We can comfortably hold on to the concept of T-shirts, button-downs and pants for men - the variety mostly begins and ends at the colour, fit and length,” she said.

Bonneville Bones recently rebranded to also feature women’s fashions and has opened a new location in Harbour Bay.

Since 1970, Bonneville Bones has been a premier retailer of men’s fashion in the Bahamas, and with the help of Ryen, who is the daughter of the brand’s founder, the fashion house is currently undergoing a renaissance.

Previously known as The London Boutique, Bonneville Bones has transitioned into a store that offers a comprehensive selection of men’s apparel, from stylish streetwear to classic suits and accessories. More recently, ladies’ casual wear has been introduced to satisfy a growing demand for trendy women’s fashion.

Ryen said she is excited to continue her family’s legacy of providing quality menswear.

“Our brand is more than just clothing; it’s a representation of our culture and heritage. We’re proud to be a Bahamian brand, and we’re excited to continue offering the best in men’s fashion to our loyal customers,” she said.