What to wear to a summer wedding
For a summer wedding, men should wear a lightweight suit in a lighter color, like light grey, light blue or tan, with a dress shirt, a tie unless the dress code is relaxed, and loafers or brown dress shoes.
The outfit
Example photo: Sandro Tavares / PexelsLight grey-blue suit
- JacketLight grey-blue suit
- TrousersMatching trousers
- ShirtWhite dress shirt
- NeckwearNavy plaid or grenadine tie
- ShoesDark brown oxfords
- ExtrasWhite pocket square, brown belt
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Tips
- Choose breathable fabrics: tropical wool, linen, cotton or a linen blend, ideally with a half-lined jacket.
- Lighter colors suit daytime: light grey, light blue, tan and stone. Go darker for an evening reception.
- Keep the jacket on for the ceremony and photos, and take it off once the groom or most guests do.
- In high heat, wear a thin undershirt or a breathable dress shirt, and bring a spare if you plan to dance.
If the invite names a dress code
Black tie optional
For black tie optional, a dark suit in charcoal or navy with a white shirt, a dark silk tie and black oxfords is fully correct. A tuxedo is welcome if you own one, but you don’t need one.
Cocktail attire
Cocktail attire for men means a tailored suit in navy, charcoal or grey, a dress shirt, a tie and leather dress shoes. It sits between business casual and black tie: dressier than the office, but no tuxedo.
Semi-formal
Semi-formal for men means a suit, or a sport coat with dress trousers, plus a collared dress shirt and leather shoes. The tie is optional, and a tuxedo is too much.
Beach formal
Beach formal means a suit in a light color and breathable fabric, like a cream, stone or light blue linen suit, worn with a dress shirt and loafers. A tie is usually optional.
Garden party attire
Garden party attire for men means a light-colored suit or a blazer with chinos, a crisp shirt, and loafers or suede shoes that can handle grass. A tie is optional.
Common questions
Can I skip the jacket at a summer wedding?
Bring it and wear it for the ceremony. It’s fine to take it off at the reception once others do.
Is linen okay for a summer wedding?
Yes, for semi-formal, beach and outdoor weddings. For black tie optional or formal, a lightweight wool suit looks sharper.
Can I wear short sleeves to a summer wedding?
Not with a suit. Wear a long-sleeve dress shirt and roll the sleeves later at a casual reception if others do.
Have the invite?
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