Straight Talker: A Straight Man's Advice to Summer Style

Believe it or not, not every male in the fashion industry is gay. Sure, straight boys are few and far between, but the rare ones we've become acquainted with are nothing but easy-going and cool. We suppose that since they're in the minority, they've got to play nice, right?

Well, denim-obsessed Tobias Levine, creative director of jean label 4 Stroke (left, with the killer tatts), has some advice for guys -- gay or straight -- on how to look good through the upcoming summer months. Here are his four basic rules of summer dressing, and other than the whole 'only wearing shorts on at the beach' thing (that New York humidity in July begs for shorts! Though Tom Ford recently said the same thing, so maybe he's on to something), its a pretty foolproof plan for looking effortlessly put-together while beating the heat:

What should guys wear for spring/summer?
Lightweight denim, open weaves and washed down or canvas in five pocket silhouettes

How do you suggest wearing white denim?
Slim or straight fit with any low top sneaker or Clarks desert boots -- no socks. Match it with a denim shirt or any earth-colored t-shirt. It's a great look.

Thoughts on men in shorts and/or denim shorts?
Men should never wear shorts unless surfing or on beach.

What shoes to wear with denim for spring /summer?
Clarks desert boots by Ronnie Feig and you can't go wrong with Vans authentic or low-top Chuck Taylors. Both look great with a few wear marks on them.