Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Fashion & Style

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

What to Wear for Labor Day and the Unofficial End of Summer

By

It’s summer’s last hurrah — Labor Day, that is. As with other summer holiday occasions, you need gear that strikes the right balance between functional, casual,  and rugged — who knows where you’ll find yourself by the end of the long weekend? With that in mind, you’ll find both a handsome short-sleeve shirt and versatile, travel-ready shorts among our Labor Day style selections below.

We’ll leave the weekend plans up to you, but these menswear picks will have you sorted out in style either way.

Recommended Videos

Taylor Stitch Short-Sleeve Jack Shirt

Taylor Stitch Short-Sleeve Jack Shirt
Image used with permission by copyright holder

We’re all about making the most of the season in style, and there’s no time like the present — and particularly, Labor Day weekend — to wear this subtly stylish patterned short-sleeve shirt from Taylor Stitch. Perfectly laid-back and versatile, yet slightly dressier than a T-shirt.

Related: 
Upgrade your daily routine with the best smartwatches for men

Roark Revival Stretch Travel Shorts

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Much like Memorial Day, Labor Day is a holiday where anything can happen — you could be at the lake or the river, then called into duty at the town’s real local watering hole. Hence, these go-anywhere shorts from Roark Revival.

Sperry Cloud CVO Deck  Sneakers

Sperry Cloud CVO Deck  Sneakers
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Affordable, classic, made to be worn for Labor Day weekend travel and a backyard BBQ in equal measure, these are the casual sneakers that’ll take you from the boardwalk to the bar and back. Great work, Sperry.

MVMT Watches Range Field Watch

MVMT Watches Range Field Watch
Image used with permission by copyright holder

For under $100, you’re getting a rugged, durable-as-heck watch to wear all Labor Day weekend — the field watch style is perfect to keep on your wrist for weekend hikes and brewery visits, no change of wristwatch required.

Duke Cannon Proper Cologne

Duke Cannon Proper Cologne
Image used with permission by copyright holder

No matter if you’re going across the country or just across town for a Labor Day BBQ, the right cologne can actually go a long way — and Duke Cannon’s new Proper Cologne is as good as it gets.

Boarding Pass NYC Shaving Kit Bag

Boarding Pass NYC Shaving Kit Bag
Image used with permission by copyright holder

We’ve talked about the importance of traveling in style for Labor Day weekend, and that principle holds true when it comes to your everyday carry, too. This tough shaving kit bag is perfect for all those critical travel toiletries.

Relwen Bivouac Weekend Duffel Bag

Relwen Bivouac Weekend Duffel Bag
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Let’s close out this guide as to what to wear for Labor Day by taking a look at the rugged bag that’s going to get you from point A to point B in style, shall we? Relwen nails it here in terms of functionality and style for Labor Day weekend.

Beau Hayhoe
Beau Hayhoe
Former Contributor
Beau Hayhoe is a freelance men's style writer, consultant and PR pro based in Brooklyn. Beau's menswear and gear writing has…

Editors’ Recommendations

Breitling unveils updated Superocean Heritage with Hawaiian surf inspiration
Wave rider: Breitling's superocean heritage update celebrates hawaiian surf heritage with kelly slater
Breitling superocean sea watch

Breitling refreshes its Superocean Heritage collection for the first time since 2017, introducing updated sizes, the new B31 manufacture movement, and a limited edition created in collaboration with surfing legend Kelly Slater. This revision balances vintage 1950s style with modern elegance and pays tribute to Hawaiian surf culture through special partnerships.

The Superocean Heritage line originally launched in 1957 as Breitling’s dive watch, combining stylish design with underwater capability. Early models like the Ref. 1004 time-only and Ref. 807 chronograph featured spear and arrow hands, anodized rotating bezels, and compact proportions—appealing to those who valued both aesthetics and function.

Read more
G-Shock’s original DW-5000c gets mighty full metal reissue
Steel evolution: G-shock's full metal 5000 series celebrates iconic dw-5000c heritage
Casio G-shock original product shot

G-Shock highlights its heritage with the 5000 Series Full-Metal GMW-B5000D-1C, a watch that reinterprets the groundbreaking 1983 DW-5000C. This new release blends the classic styling with updated materials and technology, marking an evolution for the brand’s core design.
The original DW-5000C nearly faded into obscurity but was ahead of its time. It gained traction with younger skaters and surfers, especially after being featured on American television. Today, it’s considered an icon among watch enthusiasts and everyday carry fans, establishing G-Shock’s reputation for toughness and practical utility.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is the first Full Metal model to feature the original’s signature red, blue, and yellow accents—each color carrying meaning: red for “the passion to take on challenges,” blue for “excellent water resistance,” and yellow for “outstanding shock resistance.” Previous Full Metal versions used different color schemes, so this release is especially significant for longtime G-Shock fans.
The construction is a major upgrade from the original’s resin case and rubber strap. The GMW-B5000D-1C uses a stainless steel case and linked bracelet, making it more durable and long-lasting while retaining the iconic look that made the DW-5000C famous.
Modern features include a Tough Solar quartz movement, replacing the old lithium battery and drawing power from sunlight. Bluetooth connectivity allows the watch to sync with a smartphone for easier control and enhanced functionality, bringing the 1980s design into the digital age.
Despite these updates, the essential G-Shock principles remain, especially the shock resistance that first set the brand apart. The GMW-B5000D-1C captures the original spirit, honoring it with new technology and improved durability.
Alongside this release, G-Shock also introduces the GM-B2100SD-1C, which applies the same color theme to the first Full Metal watch’s round case. This two-part launch demonstrates G-Shock’s commitment to honoring its roots while exploring new expressions within the Full Metal series.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is featured on G-Shock’s website, though pricing and availability details have not yet been announced. The timing suggests a focus on collectors and fans seeking a piece of G-Shock history, now reimagined with premium materials and modern features.
This release illustrates how classic designs can evolve through new materials and technology, preserving the core qualities that made them legendary and appealing to both longtime G-Shock enthusiasts and newcomers discovering the brand’s origins.

Read more
Chopard honors Sir Stirling Moss with Mille Miglia limited edition
Racing heritage: Chopard's stirling moss tribute and gts upgrade showcase lucent steel excellence
Chopard Mille Miglia press shot

Chopard honors racing driver Sir Stirling Moss with a Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph. At the same time, the brand updates its popular GTS Power Control with a new in-house movement. Both watches, released in 2025, use Chopard's Lucent Steel alloy, which is known for having the whitest, brightest steel finish in fine watchmaking.
The Stirling Moss tribute watch recognizes the Mercedes-Benz driver whose 722 300 SLR made racing history. The 40.5mm chronograph features a brass dial with a silver opaline finish, recalling the matte silver of Moss's "Silver Arrows" era Mercedes-Benz. Only 70 pieces exist, each individually numbered and priced at $10,800. The watch comes with a period-appropriate racing strap, featuring large punched holes and matching stitching.
Despite the high price, Chopard equips the chronograph with an ETA 2892 base movement rather than one of its own calibers. The movement is 3.75mm thick, runs at 4Hz, and offers a 54-hour power reserve. It is also COSC certified. Some collectors might expect an in-house movement at this price, but the 2892 is known for its reliable engineering, and many enthusiasts prefer it over alternatives like the 7750.
The Mille Miglia GTS Power Control 2025 Race Edition is even more appealing, as it finally receives Chopard's in-house 01.02-M movement. This caliber, measuring 28.8mm wide and 4.95mm thick, features cutouts reminiscent of cooling vents and uses color schemes inspired by car engines. It provides a 60-hour power reserve via a rotor with multiple openings.
A technical review notes, "This movement provides a big upgrade for the MM GTS, and it offers much movement for the price." The 43mm case houses a galvanized salmon dial with a circular satin finish. Grade X1 Super-LumiNova, with a black tint, creates a distinctive look against the salmon background during the day.
The GTS is priced at $7,630, with only 250 pieces available. It offers strong value, considering the in-house movement and Lucent Steel construction. The power reserve display, located between 8 and 10 o'clock, is styled like a car fuel gauge, reinforcing its appeal to car enthusiasts through practical design elements.
Both watches demonstrate Chopard's dedication to automotive history. They show how different approaches—tribute chronographs and technical upgrades—can appeal to various collector tastes. The Lucent Steel construction ensures both models display Chopard's renowned bright finish, which must be seen in person to fully appreciate.
The contrast in pricing and features makes the GTS Power Control especially attractive for enthusiasts seeking the quality of an in-house movement at a more accessible price.

Read more