What should men wear to a summer wedding?

They say your whole life is occupied by thirtysomething weddings or baby showers — and that couldn’t be more true for this writer. The moment I turned around Last year, I received a lot of pregnancy news, relatives and friends My friends have informed me of my engagement. This summer alone, I’ve had two Canadian weddings in a row in July. One was my sister’s wedding, which happened back home in Northern Ontario (where I happened to be officiating). Another was the wedding celebration of a close friend from college on picturesque Prince Edward Island.

It’s been a hot time since I attended the wedding – but now that my friends and relatives are at the age of lifelong commitments to not be scary, my entire summer has been slammed They occupy! My main stress isn’t who to bring on a date, or what to buy from the couple’s registry, but: This is what to wear .

After all, wedding attire requires much broader thought than a typical evening event. There are some things you can’t wear – bridal white is the obvious one – and some things you shouldn’t wear like sandals (yes, even if it’s a beach wedding ). Combined with my upcoming summer wedding, hot temperatures are a big consideration, and finding a comfortable (yet stylish!) look is a serious challenge.

Luckily, I’ve had a few months to think about these dressing conundrums, so you don’t have to. For any man attending a wedding this summer, there’s always a look that will keep you looking presentable and presentable—without stealing the groom’s show. I’ll know: I’ve spent weeks delving into the world of men’s wedding fashion, trying out different looks to figure out my own wedding guest attire dos and don’ts. So, below, check out five surefire options to consider for your next big event. Because who wouldn’t want to watch this couple say “I do” in style?

Never doubt that a navy suit

suit is always a surefire choice for a wedding. Since the groom usually wears a tuxedo or black suit, you’ll want to steer clear of these super formal styles. (Let him shine!) Instead, a classic dark navy suit—whether single- or double-breasted—always looks elegant and well-made. Team it with a white button-down shirt and black or brown dress shoes. If the wedding venue is outdoors, consider a suit in a light-colored fabric, such as linen or cotton, to offset the darker hue. Yes, it’s going to be a little toasty in the sun: hold on, this day isn’t about you.

Canali Solid Wool Two-Piece Set

Emporio Armani minibox wool suit

Saks Fifth Avenue Collection Woven Fleece Set

Dolce & Gabbana Horse Tini suit

Zegna Midnight Blue Slim Wool Twill Suit

Light and bright

If you are worried about If a navy blue suit would look too heavy for a special day, opt for a lighter, more breathable suit. A breezy seersucker suit is always a timeless choice for a wedding, especially by the sea. Olive or sage green is another contender. A linen or cotton suit in tan or khaki is also a good option – just make sure the neutral shade complements your skin tone. All of this can be worn with a crisp white button-down shirt: a wedding must-have.

Tom Ford Slim Fit Satin Twill Blazer

Favourbrook Sidmouth Ebury Slim Fit Herringbone Linen Blazer

Jacquemus Le Raphia Madeiro Linen Blend Blazer

Brunello Cucinelli Classic Fit Ticket Pocket Set

Zegna Prince of Wales Check Wool Blend Suit

Brunello Cucinelli single breasted Linen and wool suit

Consider short suits

I know what you’re thinking: shorts, at a wedding ? But yes, a short suit — a classic blazer paired with shorts instead of pants — can look really neat. Sure, it’s younger and edgier than the standard suit, but the key to success is simple: It’s all about proportion and fit. Just make sure your shorts aren’t too slim and they have to be knee length. Pleated shorts styles look especially sharp and fitted. Paired with a solid color button-down shirt, tee or tank top, and understated black dress shoes and black socks: the suit is a statement piece on its own.

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Kent Linen Silk Track Jacket

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Holden Pleated Shorts

Cos Slim Heather Wool Blazer

Cos pleated wool wide-leg shorts

Thom Browne 4-Stripe Wool Cashmere Flannel Track Jacket

Thom Browne 4 Pair Reversible Cotton Bermuda Shorts

Ditch the suit jacket completely

If you don’t like suits being stuffy, you One can take off the blazer and go to a wedding – but looks require more thought. This look works well with a casual or semi-formal dress code: you can wear it with a pair of pleated dress pants or chinos and a fun printed button-up shirt. Think about it: a taller version of the top you wore on vacation. Floral or tropical prints are especially good for summer weddings. Be sure to offset the more casual feel of the shirt with super stylish accessories, like dress shoes, bright shades, and nice watches and belts.

Saint Laurent Charmeuse shirt with collar

Scotch & Soda Print Sweatshirt

Polo Ralph Lauren Slim fit button-down collar linen shirt

Officine Générale Eren Camp Collar Lyocell Shirt

Scotch & Soda Print Casual Edition Sweatshirt

Theory Irving Cotton Blend Shirt

Don’t forget the accessories!

With all these different looks in mind, it’s important not to forget your accessories. There are some pieces that will always be wedding hits. Lace-up oxfords in brown or black leather are a must, as are leather loafers; platform styles feel especially fresh and modern right now. If your suit is simple, you can pair it with a striped or printed tie, or a button-down shirt with a subtle print (not too wild). A nice watch, a pair of sunglasses and smart jewelry (silver or gold) wouldn’t hurt either – a summer wedding can make for a much more enjoyable time. Like Coco Chanel, remember her advice: Always remove one accessory before heading out. The simpler the better: all the attention is on the bride and groom!

Christian Louboutin Greggo Patina Oxfords

Kiton Paisley Print Silk Tie

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46353151655577437 Eton Paisley Silk Square Scarf

1647597309989928Kiton Paisley Silk Tie

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46353151655577437

1647597295713572 Loro Piana 3.5cm suede belt

1647597293126554

1647597293126554

0400018571075Cufflinks, Inc. Ox & Bull Trading Co. Sterling Silver and Aquamarine Jade Cufflinks

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