In the last few weeks, different parts of India have witnessed varying degrees of heat. As temperatures rise and the spirit of summer begins to take hold, our wardrobes demand a seasonal shift. Heavy layers give way to breathable fabrics, dark tones lighten into sun-washed hues, and comfort becomes prime. The onset of summer also means the onset of vacations. Whether you're headed on a spontaneous road trip, exploring a beach, or simply navigating city heat, one philosophy should guide your summer style: travel light. This isn't just about packing less, it's about dressing smarter. At the intersection of ease and expression lie two of the season’s most versatile wardrobe heroes: button-down shirts for men and gender neutral apparel (we all want to save space in our suitcases, don’t we? So why not get clothes that can multi-task for both you and your partner?).

Floral Resort Shirt Set

Why Button Down Shirts for Men Are the Ultimate Summer Essential

There’s something timeless about a well-fitted button-down shirt. It’s the rare item that can easily toggle between dressed-up dinners and laid-back lounging. For men, these shirts are a summer staple not just for their clean silhouette, but also for their sheer adaptability (and well, most men like a hassle-free wardrobe.) Lightweight cotton, breezy linen, and wrinkle-resistant blends allow these shirts to remain breathable, even under the blazing sun.

At Nete, we have curated brands that will make you pop this Summer, with choices that are unique with a side of SUSTAINABLE.

Chandan Shirt for he who loves prints

The beauty of the button-down lies in its structure without rigidity. Roll up the sleeves and wear it untucked with chino shorts during the day, then button it to the collar and pair it with tailored trousers for an evening out. The shirt easily transitions from beach bar to rooftop soirée.

A Nete Man Loves To Go Wild 

The fun part of the brands hosted on Nete.in is that they aren’t just sustainable, they represent fashion-conscious people who embrace playful patterns, tropical prints, pastel palettes, and subtle embroidery. These touches bring individuality without overpowering the shirt’s core simplicity. Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or refreshing your work-from-anywhere wardrobe, the button-down shirt like these can be your most reliable companion.

But, hey! Whites Are Always In!

Timeless, effortless, and endlessly versatile, a white shirt never goes out of style. But this season, it's all about whites with a twist: think textured layers, playful silhouettes, and unexpected cuts that add edge to elegance. And the best part? Sustainable whites are stealing the spotlight. From organic cottons to recycled blends, fashion is finally embracing conscious chic because looking good should also feel good.

The Rise of Gender Neutral Apparel: Fashion without Borders

While button-downs have historically been marketed toward men, the line between menswear and womenswear is becoming refreshingly blurry. Enter gender neutral apparel, a growing movement in fashion that celebrates inclusivity, self-expression, and freedom from outdated norms. Gender neutral clothing isn’t just a trend; it’s a reflection of evolving identities and values. It encourages wearers to choose pieces that resonate with their personality rather than conforming to gender-specific rules. And in the context of summer, this freedom feels especially vital.

Designers are now creating fluid silhouettes that cater to comfort and versatility. Think oversized shirts that catch the breeze, relaxed trousers with elastic waistbands, unstructured blazers in breathable fabrics, and coordinated sets that look equally stylish on anyone. Materials like linen, rayon, bamboo blends, and organic cotton dominate gender neutral lines, all selected for their airy, skin-friendly properties.

The key is balance: offering shapes and cuts that aren’t tied to binary ideas of masculinity or femininity, but rather lean into body positivity and practicality. A gender neutral shirt might feature a slightly dropped shoulder, a boxier cut, or adjustable elements that make it flattering across body types. These garments aren’t just inclusive, they’re liberating.

Styling Tips: Fusing Button Downs and Gender Neutral Fashion

The overlap between button-down shirts for men and gender neutral apparel is where the real magic happens. Here's how to embrace this synergy for the ultimate summer style:

1. Layer Smart: Wear an oversized button-down as a lightweight outer layer over a tank or bralette. Let it hang open on especially hot days, or tie it at the waist for shape. Choose breezy fabrics like voile or gauze for a barely-there feel.

   
   Sutr Shirt

2. Monochrome Looks: Pick a neutral palette (ivory, sand, olive, slate) and mix textures within the same tone. A stone-colored button-down paired with matching wide-leg trousers makes for a minimal, high-impact outfit.

   
   Dove Shirt

3. Pattern Play: Don’t be afraid of colour and print. Stripes, abstract florals, and even vintage graphics add a dose of fun to a classic silhouette. Gender neutral brands often take risks with patterns, so explore beyond your usual aesthetic. Here are some of Nete’s favourite brands doing prints in the most playful manner.

4. Unisex Accessories: Complete the look with accessories that work across the spectrum - canvas bucket hats, leather sandals, beaded jewellery, and slouchy totes. These accents reinforce the laid-back but intentional summer vibe.

   

   Envelope Sandals

   
   
   

   Box Sling
   
   

   
   Curb Bracelet

Happy Holidays!

Summer dressing is about mobility, not just physically but emotionally. It's about feeling at ease in your skin, your clothes, and your identity. Button-down shirts for men or gender-neutral apparel (though we truly believe all apparel is ‘gender neutral’) are no longer seen as a cornerstone of classic summer style. Fashion today is finding new life through gender-neutral, earth-friendly reinterpretations. And gender neutral apparel as a whole is leading the charge toward more expressive, adaptable wardrobes. When packing for summer adventures, consider each piece for its functionality, comfort, and versatility. A few well-chosen button-downs and a selection of gender neutral staples can easily see you through a range of settings without the need for constant changes or excess baggage. As we embrace the season’s warmth, let our clothing choices reflect a lighter way of living, not just in fabric and form, but in thought and feeling. Whether you identify as male, female, non-binary, or beyond, make sustainable, conscious dressing your signature this summer. Paint it with pieces that breathe, travel well, and speak to your truest self.