Suits get a fresh update for summer with these party-ready new styles – and easy styling tips.
Whether it be for a wedding or formal soiree, or something decidedly more relaxed, men’s summer suiting equals light, versatile styles that go the distance no matter the event. From boats to bars, pool halls to parties, these are the fits that will have you looking sharp and staying cool this party season.
With summer fast approaching, and your calendar once again starting to fill (with more than just Zoom drinks), you’re going to need suiting that works hard so you can take it easy. Put aside any connotations of a stuffy uniform – this season the best men’s suits will change the way you think about wearing one in the warmer months. Yours have likely been sitting at the back of your wardrobe for longer than usual, so it’s a good time to take stock and freshen your rotation with a well-honed selection of new season shirts, pants and jackets.
Pattern play
Florals are one of the most season-appropriate ways to add interest to your look as the weather warms up, and a printed shirt is an endlessly versatile piece. As you build your outfit, style it up with contrasting pieces, like a pocket square or tie in a complementary (but not same-same) print. While mixing and matching is half the fun, try to stick within a similar colour palette to keep your look grounded (think: sartorial statement rather than optical illusion). That way fabrics might clash, but a cohesive colour palette pulls the look together. Pare your prints back with a classic pant and sneaker to keep the look casual, otherwise a well-structured sportscoat in a muted hue adds instant summer panache.
Stirred, not shaken
A black, navy or grey suit is classic, and suiting up in one can instantly make a look formal enough for an occasion such as a wedding. But once you’ve found your go-to classic, don’t be afraid to match separates, swapping in trousers and jackets in colours you might not have otherwise considered. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel completely to slightly disturb the sartorial status quo: stick to classic colours for ultimate mix-and-match. This season, creamy buttery hues and soft yellows are bang-on-trend, while green is classic and complementary to the dark hues you likely already own suits in.
Lighten up
As that summer breeze sets in, let your style reflect a lighter way of living. For daytime, swap out wool fabrics with featherweight ones such as linen and cotton, which allow excellent breathability, and play with lighter colours and prints such as checks. The fit should reflect the mood of the season – relaxed – but still be pleasantly tailored so as not to lose structure. For a casual event, skip the tie and opt for a slightly unbuttoned collared shirt or playful tee, then finish the look with white sneakers or loafers. The key to comfort is in selecting the right layers and materials, so it’s OK to put a little ‘care’ into your ‘carefree’ aesthetic.
