How to Dress for a Summer Wedding

With summer comes the wedding season, a perfect opportunity to showcase your sartorial elegance. Navigating the nuances of wedding attire can be tricky, but we will walk you through the essentials of looking just right for a summer wedding.

Is there a dress code?

First things first – wedding invitations are more than just announcements; they’re maps to understanding the expected dress code. Dive into the wording of the invitation, as it often hints at the formality of the event. Look out for terms like “cocktail”, “black tie optional”, or “informal” which set the dress code boundaries. It’s not unusual for shorts and sandals to be the order of the day for beach or spa weddings.

Some couples weave elements of their life story into their wedding theme. This can give you some cues to dressing, even if you don’t go in full costume. For instance, in case of a Scottish Cèilidh wedding, you might embellish your suit with a thistle rather than going down the kilt and sporran route. Such details are subtle but enhance the celebratory atmosphere.

Discover the lay of the land

Consider the venue and timing – is the wedding taking place indoors or outdoors, in a lush garden or on a sandy beach? Daytime affairs typically lean towards lighter tones and more relaxed styles compared to evening celebrations. If it’s an outdoor event, be mindful of the weather across the hours; layers might become essential as temperatures dip post-sunset. If you’re wise, you’ll take an umbrella with you – and be prepared to share it with someone. 

The traditional guest suit

Unless stated otherwise, a summer wedding usually calls for semi-formal attire. For men, this generally translates to a well-tailored wedding suit. But don’t mistake semi-formality for lacklustre; your suit should speak elegance. If unsure, a smart, well-fitted blazer and trousers will serve you well.

Fabric choices

Choosing the right fabric can make a significant difference in your comfort and style. Traditional wool suits are indeed classy but can be overwhelmingly hot in summer weather. Opt for lighter fabrics such as linen, cotton blends or perhaps a lightweight wool that offer breathability and comfort without compromising on style. 

Colour options

Each colour tells its own story in the context of a summer wedding. There’s no right and wrong here, but choosing a colour that matches your summertime skin tone is a good place to start.

Blue wedding suit

Perhaps one of the most versatile colours in a man’s wardrobe, blue is fresh, vivacious and seasonal for summer weddings. Depending on the shade, blue can be bold or understated. A lighter azure or a vibrant cornflower projects summer vibes, whereas a deeper navy offers a subtler, yet equally polished choice.

Beige

The essence of the summer colour scheme, beige is an excellent choice for staying cool and stylish. The lightness of beige suits makes them a perfect pick for daytime events and complements a wide array of shirt and tie combinations, allowing your personality to shine through.

Light grey

Grey retains a more traditional flair but in lighter shades such as dove or silver, it becomes perfectly suited for summer festivities. It’s a sophisticated alternative to black, providing high adaptability to both official and casual styles. Grey also acts as a neutral backdrop for a coloured shirt, tie or pocket square, so use it.

Tan

Exuding a semi-casual charm, tan suits boast a laid-back yet dapper aesthetic. Ideal for outdoor weddings, a tan suit pairs splendidly with pastel-coloured shirts and bold ties or accessories, playing into the vibrancy of a summer palette.

Charcoal

For those who favour darker tones, charcoal offers a cooler alternative to black. While it’s suitable for evening events, remember it might absorb more heat during outdoor daytime functions, so a waistcoat might be an option if you’re likely to take the jacket off.

Go for a pattern 

It’s not all about solid colour – patterns add another dimension to the outfit, and make it easier to pick out colours to accessorise with.

Tweed wedding suits

While traditionally considered a heavier fabric more suited for colder months, a tweed wedding suit can be appropriate for less formal summer weddings, particularly in cooler venues. It adds texture and depth to your ensemble with its intricate weave.

Pinstripe

Pinstripe suits offer a sharp, classic appearance. Choose light-coloured fabrics with subtle stripes for summer weddings to keep the look appropriate for the season and less businesslike. De-formalise it by going tieless and open-necked for a cool vibe.

Check

Modern and eye-catching, checks can vary from understated windowpane styles to bolder designs with prominent colours. They are perfect for adding personality to your ensemble while sticking within formal boundaries.

Herringbone

Known for its distinctive V-shaped weaving pattern, herringbone is another textural choice that lends a dynamic edge to traditional suits. Opt for lightweight versions in cool shades to align with summer themes.

Waistcoats: a summer debate

Waistcoats can lift the formality of your look, making them ideal for occasions like weddings. However, they do introduce an additional layer which could prove uncomfortable in hotter climates or outdoor settings.

For those who choose to wear one in the summer, consider lighter materials and perhaps opt for a waistcoat in a contrasting colour to emphasise summer style without overheating. They do come in handy if you remove the jacket, though – you’ll remain dressed-up while remaining cool, even if you’ve long abandoned the tie.

Shoe selection for summer weddings

Choosing the right footwear is crucial for rounding off your summer wedding outfit. The ideal shoes not only complement your suit but also offer comfort, especially during long hours of standing and dancing.

Loafers

A sterling choice for summer weddings, loafers can be both stylish and comfortable. Opt for leather or suede in colours like brown or burgundy to add a dash of panache. Loafers work beautifully with more casual styles, such as lighter suits or blazers with chinos.

Brogues

These detailed shoes add a touch of heritage and sophistication to any outfit. For summer events, lighter shades such as tan or grey can keep your look fresh and appropriate for the season. Brogues are versatile and pair well with everything from semi-formals to a smart tweed number.

Oxfords

If the event leans toward higher formality, Oxfords are a fail-safe option. Stick to classic black or deep chestnut for an effortlessly polished look. They particularly complement darker or neutral suits such as charcoal, grey or deep navy.

It’s all about you

Ultimately, selecting the right outfit involves balancing personal style with practical considerations of fabric, fit and seasonality. Tailoring your look according to these pointers will ensure you turn up in comfort, style and impeccable taste. While following these guidelines might be helpful, remember to allow your personal taste to shine through and mix in elements that amplify your personal style.