For the average Sartorialist, a seasonal wedding is nothing
short of a dream come true. Yet, if you are not the type of gentleman who knows
veil fabric for its wool blend, this can pose a rather sweaty dilemma. In
addition to being the most prevalent time for nuptials, the key element of
summer is that it is usually quite hot. Far from ideal conditions to bundle up
in a dark three-piece suit and thick cotton shirt, to say the least.
Attending a summer wedding in style and without melting into
a puddle before the speeches begin is something of an art. In fact, it may
sound like witchcraft to the uninitiated. But it is not supernatural. And with
the right crafts, any man can host a summer wedding.
summer wedding
An elegant wedding invitation from letterpress.co.uk (no
dress code)
Luca Faloni Elegant Mesnwear Essentials - Click to Buy
Dress code: what does it mean?
The most important thing to consider before choosing your
summer wedding attire is to pay close attention to what is said on the
invitation. Generally speaking, there will be a dress code listed, which will
give you a marker against which to evaluate what is and is not appropriate.
Given the large number of these codes, it can be difficult to know what they
are. Fortunately, there may not even be a dress code on the invitation. So
before you show up for a smart, casual ceremony in your tux, here's a quick
crash course on the fundamentals.
Black tie
The black tie is the most formal type of dress, apart
perhaps from the white tie. You are unlikely to find this on a summer wedding
invitation. But if you do, here's what you need to know: Black tie means tuxedo
(or tuxedo, if you're American). Don't appear in anything else. The problem?
You will probably be sweating.
Other than that, you'll need an ironed dress shirt with a
bib across the front, a pair of well-waxed black oxfords (patent leather is a
great way to subtly stand out), and of course a pair of waxed black oxfords. .
'A black bow tie.
Formal (black tie optional)
One of the most confusing dress codes. The black tie is
optional just means that your hosts will wear a black tie, but they are
courteous enough to understand that you may not want to. To play it safe, it is
always better to err on the side of caution and wear a tux (see above).
If for some reason this is not an option, a normal two-piece
suit with a tie is perfectly acceptable. Just make sure it's dark and as close
to a tux as possible (think knitted or shawl lapels).
Smart summer
Congratulations, you don't have to burn yourself at all in a
dark wool suit. Summer Smart is a popular dress code for hot weather weddings,
allowing guests more freedom to play with colors and materials.
Sewing in light, neutral, or pastel tones works well here,
as does navy blue. Opting for a linen or seersucker suit instead of wool or
cotton will keep you fresh and stylish at all times. Pair it with a pair of
loafers in a complementary shade.
Casual chic
Feel free to ditch the jacket as another way to keep cool.
Or, if you think it may be necessary to keep sweat patches hidden but you don't
want to be the only guest in a full costume (you probably wouldn't be anyway),
you can choose to use separate rooms.
As for shoes, it's not limited to leather brogues, derbies,
or monks; Loafers and brogues, as well as suede or even canvas, are great too.
Casual clothing
It's weird, but a casual dress code on your invitation means
you can wear more or less what you want. Still, it's always best to keep things
on the safe side. In other words, it's probably not wise to show up in a
T-shirt and flip-flops, regardless of the outside temperature.
Instead, opt for something like chic chinos or pants that
are worn with an Oxford shirt and minimalist desert boots or leather sneakers.
Cocktail outfit
In short, a cocktail outfit means haute couture with a
different twist. For example, wear this patterned two-piece suit, but maybe
swap the shirt for a plain white tee or