For years, short sleeve button down shirts had a bad reputation. But then brands began stepping up their short-sleeve game and stylish early adopters started taking notice. Throwback patterns, retro tropical prints and bright, textured solids are back in a big way and the collars are evolving, giving us more options than ever.

Which means now, more than ever, is the time to step out of your comfort zone. Helping our cause? The best brands are all on board so the spectrum from punk to prep leaves enough overlap for every style to find some representation.

Picking the right shirt is going to be about context: what you're wearing it with, and where you'll be seen. Happy hour patios shouldn't get the same flouncy, floral arrangement as the beach, and don't let the rest of your sartorial selection that day ruin a good thing. Don't ruin what's on top with what's on the bottom: please, keep shorts at or above the knees. And don't be afraid to pair these bold prints with tailored pants or even a suit for a casual summer wedding.

But these shirts take a little confidence. If you feel the shirt is too loud, imagine running into your ex while wearing it - if that's enough to make you second guess your decision then maybe it's time to scale it back. Other than that, just have fun with it and fell free to bare arms.