Outfit ideas for guests going to warm-weather weddings.

 

HEADING TO A SUMMER WEDDING?

Words: T. MacInnis

It can be tough to sort out what to wear to a wedding, even if the couple gives you a dress code. Add summer heat to that mix, and you’ve got a bit of a puzzle. Here’s what to go for, no matter the location or the weather.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO A WEDDING IF IT’S GOING TO BE HOT?

Summer is upon us, and with it (hopefully) comes warmer weather. While we love the sunshine, those higher temperatures can make wearing a suit a bit uncomfortable.

Enter linen, your best fabric friend when you need a suit that’s light and breezy. Go with a neutral brown if you’re keen to wear brighter accessories, or take it up a notch with a brighter, summery blue. Especially if the wedding is in a hot location abroad, consider pairing your linen suit with a linen shirt for an extra breezy look.

 

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO A BLACK-TIE SUMMER WEDDING?

Black tie can be challenging at the best of times, but when the invite stipulates this specific dress code, it’s best to be respectful and not ignore. You can always go with a full tuxedo, but there’s no reason you can’t get a bit creative and choose something that’s slightly more special.

Our blush velvet jacket keeps with the black-tie code, but its unexpected hue adds that hit of personality you might be looking for. Pair it with classic black tuxedo trousers, and a silk bowtie to let the jacket take centre stage.

THE DRESS CODE IS SMART CASUAL – WHAT DO I WEAR?

Smart casual might sound a little vague, and that’s because it sort of is. It’s an opportunity to essentially wear whatever you like, as long as it’s tidy and fits well.

You can definitely go for more of a laid-back look, here – think no tie and a shirt with a fun, colourful print. You can still go a bit more formal with a waistcoat, but balance it out with your shoe choice. Crisp, white trainers or even a pair of suede ones are a great way to dress your favourite three-piece down.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO A SUMMER WEDDING IN THE CITY?

A city-based weddings calls for a bit more of a fashion-forward look, if you’re game. A suit in a bright colour or a punchy pattern is a great way to take a calculated risk and still look put together. To tone it down a bit, pair your statement-making suit with a simple shirt and muted accessories.

It’s important to pay attention to the dress code here too, though, as well as the location. If the invite says black-tie or semi-formal, make sure you’re abiding by those requirements. And, if the location is a five-star hotel ballroom or an upscale restaurant, better to play it a bit safer with something more traditional.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO A SUMMER WEDDING IN THE COUNTRYSIDE?

Nothing creates a romantic atmosphere quite like a British countryside wedding, especially in the summer. Compliment the surroundings with a suit in an eye-catching, on-trend pastel hue. If you really want your look to feel summery, opt for floral accessories in contrasting shades.

Again, it’s important here to pay attention to the location and any required dress codes. If it says formal, as some countryside weddings are, opt for a morning suit. But, you can still have fun with a brighter waistcoat and some snappy accessories, so don’t be too afraid to take some risks.

WHAT ACCESSORIES CAN I USE TO BRIGHTEN UP A SUIT I ALREADY HAVE?

If you’re keen to wear a suit you already own, we get it. But if you think it needs a bit of a refresh for a summer wedding, there are a few small things you can do to brighten it up, especially if it’s grey or navy.

Go with a floral tie in a shade that will pop against a more neutral shirt, like red or royal blue. If you want to keep it more casual, opt for an unexpected shirt style like a polo underneath your suit. And for shoes, choose something in a warmer tone that will keep the overall look light and seasonally-appropriate.