The top 10 warm-weather wardrobe essentials – and how to style them
Summer weddings are often more relaxed style-wise (unless the dress code states black tie or cocktail), which makes finding the right men’s formal wear harder than simply reaching for your trusty three-piece suit. The best warmer-weather wedding looks combine great fit, breathable fabrics and thoughtful details to see you through the day – from the ceremony to 1am on the dancefloor.
1. Linen suit
Perhaps the definitive summer wedding look, a linen suit offers breathable, lightweight tailoring. This double-breasted style scores high on wearability, as it works just as well with a tee for days in the office.
3. Tie
Standard for formal or more traditional weddings, a silk tie adds a sharp finish to your outfit. Charles Tyrwhitt’s fleur-de-lis embroidered design instantly lifts a neutral stone or navy suit.
5. Sunglasses
Don’t treat accessories as a last minute add-on; block out rays in style with sunglasses that elevate your look from good to exceptional, such as Prada’s Linea Rossa PS A06S1 polarised square frames.
9. Knitted polo
If the smart-casual dress code leans towards the latter, a knitted polo can be a great option for a beach ceremony. Ralph Lauren’s camp collar knit offers the silhouette of a shirt with an easy-breezy, relaxed charm.
10. A pocket square
If you’re part of the bridal or groom’s party, a pocket square is your chance to nod to the wedding palette and subtly signify your special role. Reiss’ silk Ceremony design comes in eight classic shades.
Golden rules of summer wedding dressing
What are the biggest summer wedding guest outfit mistakes?
Leaving suit-buying too late; choosing style over fit; ignoring the venue and weather forecast; and matching the groomsmen – if in doubt on the latter, contact the best man or one of the groomsmen to find out what colour they’re wearing.
How do I stand out as the father of the bride or groom?
You don’t need to match the groomsmen; instead, opt for an outfit in a complementary shade to harmonise with the wedding’s aesthetic. A floral buttonhole or pocket square in a similar hue will help to signify your special role.
What should I wear if I'm a groomsman?
You will be given specific instructions from the groom, but a reliable baseline is a well-fitted suit with a crisp shirt. Your tie or bow tie will be chosen to coordinate with the bridesmaid dresses, to distinguish your role from regular guests.
Wedding suit rental
If you’ve got multiple events in the diary and don’t want to splurge on a new look each time, check out John Lewis Rental for wow-factor suits, blazers and trousers from names including Hugo Boss, Charles Tyrwhitt and GANT. Simply rent, wear and return – from as little as £15 per day.
