Summer Wedding
If you’re remotely social and between the ages of 25 and 42, there’s a good chance you’re attending a wedding this summer, if not several.
And weddings these days come in all shapes and sizes, from the let’s-get-hitched-in-the-woods variety of the Pacific Northwest (replete with suspender-clad lumbersexuals) to the black-tie-meets-nightclub galas at which, yes, some guy just drew a penis on the back window of the “just-married” Bugati (this actually happened). Wherever the nuptials land on the scale of wedsanity, we’ve put together a few tips (and a few wardrobe suggestions) to get through the evening in style.
1. Chill out
Summer weddings means warmer weather and a slightly more laid-back vibe. We recommend mixing a lighter palette (cream, white, light gray) with either a single bold piece (like a floral tie) or simply upgrade a timeless look with an interesting texture or pattern (like the patterned, navy blazer below).
2. Layer Up
While summer weddings are more casual, you should still wear a jacket. Even if it sits on the back of your chair for much of the night, you’ll enter with style and exit with something to offer your date for the long, breezy walk back to the car.
3. Kick back
Pick some comfortable shoes for dancing the night away. Clean sneakers, boat shoes, or loafers are our favorites (all of which look best when paired with no-show loafer socks).
4. Speaking of shoes…
Dance. Let go. Have fun. Celebrate.
Just remember – you still have to drive home.
Blue White Ludlow Sport Coat, from J Crew
Timeless, versatile and seriously stylish, J Crew’s Ludlow jackets have rightfully become a foundation of many men’s suiting wardrobe. This one is made of fine cotton from Tessuti di Sondrio, a mill that has been weaving some of the world's finest fabrics since as far back as the late 1800s. Perfect for warmer weather, this is how you lighten up your suit without sacrificing any of the style.
White Polo, from J Crew
A clean-cut standard that goes with just about anything.
Navy Trousers, from Topman
These navy skinny fit chinos from Topman fit tight through the leg but also offer a long enough rise to feel comfortable for all day movement.
Brown Loafers, from Cole Haan
Burnished leather shapes this distinguished loafer from Cole Haan. Crafted with a moc-stitched toe and a flexible driver sole, this loafer is as comfortable as it is wearable for any occasion.
Bonus tip:
Giving a toast? We’ve been there. Three tips to get you through:
- Limit yourself to 1.5 drinks before. Trust us – one of our editors had five gin and tonics before a speech. It wasn’t pretty.
- Feel free to practice. But leave the notecard in your pocket if you can.
- Keep it short and sweet. Whether your toast is humorous or sentimental (it’s actually both right?), shorter is always better. Get in, get out, and get the guests back onto the dance floor where they belong.
Tom Trim Check Sport Coat, from Ted Baker
Rich Italian wool shapes a trim-cut Ted Baker sport coat patterned in handsome checks. Navy keeps it classic, while the checks, unique lining, and stitching details say “one of a kind”.
Floral Button Up, from J Crew
The J Crew oxford cloth button down gets a dash of whimsy with this unique daisy pattern.
White 514 Jeans from Levis
The Levi's 514 Straight Fit Jeans are a classic jean from a classic brand. They're cut to sit low on the waist, generous through the seat and thigh, and feature a sharp, straight-leg opening from knee to ankle (not tapered). Best for athletic to medium builds.
Leather Belt, from H&M
You can't really go wrong with a cognac leather belt.
Floral Tie, from Grunion Run
This beautiful and affordable floral tie will brighten up any ensemble. Wear it with confidence.