Tesi Johnson, Gleaner Writer
Left: Linen drawstring pants are perfect for a late evening stroll on the beach or for that summer beach party. This Avark design was shown at Caribbean Fashionweek in June. Right: Oh Lord, I can't breathe, he's so fine. Men, if this is what's hidden under your shirt, take it off. If not, don't bother! Mushroom design seen at this year's Caribbean Fashionweek (CFW). - Winston Sill / Freelance Photographer
Summer is now at its peak, and as all the beach parties and poolside 'lymes' are in full swing, the women are clamouring to find that perfect little swimsuit and matching accessories that are designed to tease and tantalise. Likewise, men should equip themselves with the relevant beach essentials, in preparing for a day of summer fun.
Swim shorts/trunks are absolutely necessary if one intends to hit the water. Contrary to popular belief, briefs and underpants do not qualify as swimwear.
Your eyes will need protection for the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun, so pack your sunglasses. Furthermore, these can do much to enhance your 'cool factor' if you're donning a particularly stylish pair.
Get yourself a pair of slippers, flip-flops or sandals to wear on the beach rather than sneakers and socks.
A hat may provide more sun protection.
T-shirts make great casual wear for the trek to the shores, and if your summer body isn't intact you might wear them into the water as well.
Linen pants and shorts keep the 'essentials' cool.
Don't be fooled into thinking you are too macho for sunscreen. Melanoma is not gender-specific, so men need to protect their skin with sun block just like women. If you're lucky, some sprightly young thing might ask you to rub some on her body, after seeing you slather it all over yours.
Put lotion on your skin before coming to the beach because ashy ankles don't qualify as a fashion statement.
Of course, you'll need the obvious beach towel, especially if you intend to get wet. Then again, carry it even if you don't intend to get wet because you just might get pushed in.
Some men prefer to have hair removed from their armpits and chest when heading out to the beach. A 'gorilla-esque' chest is not at all attractive, and if you think you are man enough, have it waxed.
Most importantly, you'll need the company of some equally beach-savvy ladies to maximise your fun. If you didn't take any to the beach with you, then by all means, go treasure hunting!
If you don't already have that ripped and taut 'summer body', then chances are that you won't attain it fast enough to be ready for all the hot summer beach parties that are already under way. Fret not, as there are a few tips and tricks that guys have come up with to enhance their best features while playing down their least favourite.
Solomon* suggests that you do push-ups and crunches just before heading out to the beach. "Your muscles will become swollen and you will appear more buffed," he explains.
Also, among Solomon's tricks is to shave or wax hair from the arms and torso, as "the absence of hair makes muscles appear more taut," he says.
John* says, "When at the beach, do not slouch because you want to look like you have been working out. Straighten your back, push your chest out, and pull the stomach in - if only for that day, adopt good posture."
John* also suggests that you wear a pair of speedos under your swim shorts, so if you get 'excited', possibly at the sight of the scantily-clad ladies, all might be kept under control. "Don't wear one that is too tight though," he says, "you don't want to look small."
Wear a simple T-shirt or merino along with your swim trunks into the water, if you are not comfortable with exposing your paunch.
Left: Guys, leave the sneakers and socks for the football field and invest in a pair of flip-flops or sandals for the beach. This pair by Puma is available at Training Camp, Manor Park, for $1,200 (plus tax). - Photos by Tesi Johnson
*The names have been changed.
