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WEDDING SEASON IS in full effect, but so is the heat. Summer weddings are great, but things can get a little too toasty—especially when the ceremony and reception are outdoors.
Different seasons call for different attire. You don’t have to change your look completely, but subtle changes can up your game if you want to look dapper. Beach weddings require a little bit more finesse, but the same question arises: What should you wear? Summer weddings are notoriously tricky, so we’re here to help.
Our style experts rounded up a few different ways to get you through a certain someone’s special day—without forming a puddle of sweat in the process. From linen blazers to breathable suits to modest accessories, here’s what we’re bookmarking.
A Classic Suit, But Make It Breathable
A single-breasted suit is always a safe, classy look, especially if the reception is indoors. Still, it’s good to find something a little more breathable for all of the in-between picture-taking, travel, etc. We’d suggest going with a lighter, summer-friendly look, and the Essential Sterling Grey Suit from the Black Tux is a no-brainer. It’s made out of breathable merino wool, and it’s a solid four-season suit.
If you want to go a little darker, you’ll do well with a lighter fabric. In this case, go with The Garment-Dyed Suit from Brooks Brothers, which is conveniently available in black. The Crosby Classic-fit Suit represents the best of both worlds; it’s available in spring/summer colors and constructed with a similarly breathable hybrid material.
All-in On Linen
You can go the full linen route, which is ideal for beach weddings. You can also probably get away with it at a summer barn wedding. It might not match the aesthetic, but we’ll take the tradeoff: Bonobos’ Jetsetter Italian Linen Suit is both breathable and easy on the eyes, and it’s available in a few summer-centric colorways. If you’re of a slimmer, narrower build, the A&F Collins Suit is a pretty budget-friendly pick, which is important if you only plan on wearing it a handful of times. For a boxier, relaxed look, the Salt Lines Alta Blazer and Trouser combo from Alex Crane offers a little ’90s nostalgia in the beachiest way possible. Fortune favors the bold, and if you really want to show off, you can opt for a full seersucker suit. Confidence is a prerequisite.
A Breezy Shirt
Best thing about a summer wedding? You get to be creative with the shirt. It’s also a great excuse to wear a short-sleeved shirt under your suit, which oftentimes is a fashion no-no. Todd Snyder’s Capri Shirt is a crowd-pleasing statement shirt if you want to peacock a little. The Stretch Riviera Short Sleeve Shirt from Bonobos gives off similar vibes, especially in its citrus orange seersucker colorway. The Relaxed-Fit Pleated Linen Resort Shirt from Banana Republic offers a simple, yet bold design for beach affairs.
If you want to go in a more traditional direction, Tommy Bahama makes the perfect linen shirt that’s more form-fitting than its traditional, relaxed styles. The Non-Iron Stretch Greenwich Weave Shirt is more of a traditional dress shirt, only far more breathable and moisture-wicking. If you plan to rock a blazer, Buck Mason’s Field-Spec ’90s Boxy Heavy Tee is cut perfectly and doesn’t require any tucking.
Blazers and Slacks
Blazer and slacks are a pro move. The simplified look is perfect for summer, especially if you want to wear a breezy short-sleeve top underneath. The Polo Iconic Doeskin Two-Button Blazer gives off an elevated look and goes well with a pair of chinos or slim-fit, light-colored dress pants. Banana Republic makes a solid pair for $150, but you can always find something similar (and cheaper) on Quince. If you’re looking for a more beach-themed blazer, the Houndstooth Vos Sport Coat is your winner. It’s made with a soft linen-cotton blend, but keeps its shape well and is structured like a classic wool blazer.
Comfy Loafers
Loafers pair well with just about anything, but this is especially true for summer wedding looks. Sockless is your best bet (outside of a classic suit). Allen Edmonds’s Sorrento Penny Loafer is tasteful and timeless, but you can opt for something a little more inexpensive from Florsheim. If you’re more of a horsebit loafer kind of guy, Quince also makes a budget-friendly pair for under $150. You can get away with Sperrys for a beach wedding, but we’d suggest a driving shoe for a slightly more elevated look. The Gold Cup Harpswell 2-Eye Driver is a safe bet.
Summer Shades and Accessories
Accessories are especially important if you’re looking to give your existing look a summer spin. Shades are a must, and you can never go wrong with the Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer. The Tortoise colorway adds a subtle hint of personality. If you’re going with the classic suit/blazer look, go with a fun-colored woven tie that’s not too busy or a beachy, floral pocket square. Pastels work great for classic colors, but you may want to go a little darker if you’re going with the Polo Blazer or one of the subdued linen looks.
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Tim Kohut is the Deals and Trends Editor for Popular Mechanics, Men’s Health, Best Products, and Runner's World. He has extensive product review and gear coverage expertise, particularly in tech, home, auto, and health. Tim was previously the Deputy Commerce Editor of The Drive and a Commerce Editor at BGR. He’s also overseen gear coverage and strategy at Popular Science, Bob Vila, Outdoor Life, and Field and Stream. He has a strong affinity for cats, Batman, and early 90’s Nicolas Cage films, in that order.
As the Style and Reviews Editor for Men's Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.
