These A.K. Rikk’s camp collar shirts are having a better summer than you—so catch up. We walk you through the breezy, sought-after silhouette and give you the philosophy behind this summer favorite and why you need it in your closet–ahem, need many.

The camp collar shirt traditionally follows a carefree structure of a flat, notch collar with a button-front closure and a relaxed fit that’s worn untucked to accentuate that laid-back mentality. You can find these quintessential vacation shirts made in breathable and lightweight fabrics to beat the heat. Think linen, rayon, tencel and silk. The goal is to feel a luxurious, weightless fabric that’s the next best thing to wearing nothing.

It’s the height of cool guy lore and you see the look go by many names which ultimately brings us to the question: what’s the difference between a camp collar and a Cuban collar? Absolutely nothing. It boils down to regional terminology and interchangeable names used in the fashion industry so you can lump bowling shirts and resort shirts right in there as well.

It’s a summer favorite because it has that anything-goes personality thanks to the comfortable, looser fit. Don’t overthink it. The vibe is so chill and that’s why luxury camp collar shirts show up in the wild often. It’s a social style for sure. From backyard summer barbecues to beach trips and sweet summer nights dining under the stars, the open collar shirt is a signal to order one more cocktail. 

Heading to a music festival, rooftop party or a first date? The designer camp collar shirt slides right in to secure the look. Booked a vacation at a resort where the agenda is beach, pool and sunset party? It’s the style and unserious shirt that’s perpetually in leisure mode.

Heck, even some creative or ultra-casual work environments can get down with a camp collar shirt for casual Fridays–especially when paired with an iconic pair of chinos.  

It comes naturally. Camp shirts help to assemble that long weekend look especially because they tend to show up in the most playful, whimsical and retro patterns and prints. Lean into it. It’s supposed to feel lively and built for days where you slam the laptop shut (hard). From floral, nautical, retro, hardcore tropical and irreverent graphics, there’s always a conversation-starter visual (which certainly helps when you’re at a loss for words with someone you are interested in).

When it comes to styling a camp shirt, anyone can rock it. It’s the piece that says: I’m approachable and I know the best place to get margaritas. Seeing it on your favorite celebrities can help. From Jeff Goldblum to Justin Bieber and Harry Styles, fashion forward gents to your quirky uncle can take the look everywhere this summer. It works for them (and you) because it’s universally sprezzatura–meaning it’s not trying too hard. 

Execute the look casually with linen pants, shorts and light wash denim. Even certain swim trunks with a drip-dry design can be styled with a camp shirt for an impromptu trip into a popular beach town for lunch. The look skyrockets with huaraches, woven leather sandals and Birkenstock styles. Add personalized jewelry (think Tateossian bracelets) and sunglasses for a vacation-ready ensemble that’s super off-duty.

Style it more elevated with tailored trousers, rolled-hem chinos and darker-wash denim. To walk that fine line of casual elegance you can add in unlined leather loafers or amped up, designer espadrilles. Try a simple French tuck. It’s the insouciant detail that nails styling while also showing off your belt.

Remember, layering adds depth and dimension and is easier to execute than you think. Build on the look by starting with a luxury white cotton tank top or t-shirt then add your camp shirt for a sophisticated upgrade that looks intentional, never fussy. Hang your sunnies in your collar or add a Hoorsenbuhs chain necklace for crispy details.

Try solid colors to work your way into the aesthetic. This Isaia camp collar shirt comes in clean and simple white in summer’s popular seersucker fabric for a win-win. Similarly, this Isaia linen camp shirt in a dark aqua hue comes in a solid color with tonal coral embroidery for seasonal charm. Kardo’s rust-colored, oversized shirt has tonal stripes for an understated embellishment.

If modern prints are more your speed, reach for the more stately Officine Generale option in dark brown with a handsome and subtle dot pattern. The richly hued retro print from Rag & Bone offers camp shirt credibility without sacrificing class. Slip into this Versace style in grey silk with a geometric pattern with maze-like visuals.

Blow off steam in wild visuals that scream life of the party with the bright yellow Ralph Lauren RRL option with an adventurous, Western motif. Same goes for Isaia’s bold red and white striped shirt in pure linen. Settle into the blue oasis of the Ralph Lauren RRL style with a vintage-inspired tropical print complete with coconut-shell buttons. Save Casablanca’s glitchy and glowing orchid print for a night out with the boys. Kardo’s blue option boasts artistic embroidery that never misses.

Go big or go home (and change). Camp shirts and busy patterns go hand in hand. Commit to the bit and consider the black Les Deux selection with contrast abstract flower embroideries that get you noticed. This black linen Ralph Lauren Purple Label shirt is the definition of decorative because life is short (but some summer parties are long). Ditto for this colorful Isaia option and the large-scale coral print in blue from Isaia. A tropical shirt on steroids, this Ksubi piece takes an already busy print and sets it on fire (literally with an erupting volcano). Finally, a Versace sun scorched shirt has gold Baroque ornamentation in cooling silk. Bottom line: nobody is going to miss seeing you at the party. We promise.