Because style shouldn’t make you sweat through the vows.
A couple of summers ago, I saw a guest at an outdoor wedding show up in a heavy navy wool suit. Sharp? At first. But by cocktail hour, he looked like he’d been caught in a downpour — the only thing raining was heat. We’ve all been there.
The good news? Summer weddings don’t have to be an endurance test. With the right suit and a few low-key styling shifts, you can stay cool, look timeless, and feel like yourself. Here’s how. Check our guide for best summer suits for men.
1. Choose Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics
Let’s start with the basics. If your suit feels like it belongs in a boardroom in January, it’s wrong for July.
What to look for:
- Linen — breathable, classic, slightly rumpled (in the best way)
- Cotton twill — structured but light
- Tropical wool — soft, airy, and surprisingly versatile
Mid-range brands to check out:
- Suitsupply (great for off-the-rack linen and cotton suits)
- Spier & Mackay (excellent quality for the price)
- Massimo Dutti (light tailoring with European ease)
2. Skip the Structure (and the Sweat)
Think more ease than rigid tailoring. For warm weather, your suit should feel like a natural extension of your posture.
Go for:
- Unlined or half-lined blazers
- Soft shoulders
- Relaxed-fit trousers (with a bit of drape)
A suit should move with you — whether you’re clinking glasses or dancing barefoot after dark.
3. Embrace Softer Colors
Summer is the season for light neutrals, soft blues, and anything that doesn’t soak up sunlight.
Try:
- Beige, cream, or sand
- Dusty olive
- Powder blue
- Light grey
Darker suits feel too heavy and over-serious when everyone else is sipping prosecco in the shade.
4. No Tie? Totally Fine
Unless the dress code says otherwise, skip the tie and wear a structured open collar shirt. Look for a cutaway or band collar that stays crisp without collapsing.
If you want to wear a tie, and i still always suggest to wear it on formal events, try:
- A linen-blend in a soft stripe or subtle pattern
- A knitted tie for texture and comfort
- Something personal, not flashy
5. Go Sockless — the Right Way
No-show socks are your best friend. Don’t let your shoes become a heat trap.
Good shoe options:
- Aeyde or Vagabond loafers (leather or suede)
- Velasca woven slip-ons or derbies
- Minimalist sneakers if it’s a casual wedding (think: Axel Arigato, JAK)
6. The Finishing Touches Matter
Stay polished without trying too hard:
- A classic leather belt (woven or smooth)
- A subtle pocket square (even cotton works)
- A spray of something fresh — citrus, neroli, or vetiver
- Sunglasses — keep them slim and timeless
Remember: when everyone else is struggling with the heat, looking effortless is the real flex.
🖼️ Instagram-Inspired Outfit Ideas
Here are some visual references that reflect a polished, real-life wedding guest look:
📸 IG Reference: @massimodutti
📸 IG Reference: @velascamilano
Final Thought
You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style — or melt into your seat halfway through dinner. With the right pieces, a few smart swaps, and a little effort, you’ll look and feel like you belong in every photo.
And if you ever find yourself dancing in a linen suit with a spritz in hand — you’re doing it right.
If you liked this, you might also enjoy 5 Best Men’s Vacation Outfit
People Also Ask About Summer Suits for Men
What suit is best for hot summer?
The best suit for a hot summer is made from breathable, lightweight fabrics like linen, tropical wool, or cotton twill. These materials let air circulate, so you stay cool without sacrificing polish. A half-lined or unstructured suit in a soft color — like sand, dove gray, or powder blue — is ideal for summer weddings and warm-weather events.
What is the 5 suit rule?
The 5 suit rule is a minimalist wardrobe guideline suggesting that you only need five versatile suits to cover every occasion: a navy suit, a charcoal suit, a light grey summer suit, a patterned suit (like check or herringbone), and a tuxedo. But if we’re being honest? If you live somewhere warm or attend outdoor weddings often, sub in a linen suit — it’s a lifesaver during hot months.
What is the best suit color for summer?
In summer, go for light and sun-friendly tones. The best suit colors include beige, cream, light gray, powder blue, and soft olive. These shades not only reflect heat but also give off that effortless, European-summer-at-the-villa kind of elegance — the kind of look that works from ceremony to sunset cocktails.
How to wear a suit on a hot day?
To wear a suit on a hot day without overheating, start with breathable fabrics and skip the heavy lining. Go for relaxed tailoring, soft colors, and no-show socks. If the dress code allows, you can lose the tie and opt for an open-collar shirt — just make sure it holds its shape. The goal? Look polished, feel light, and make it to the dance floor without breaking a sweat.
