Already as hot as it can be, although only counting one month into summer, the idea of wearing a suit to work appears dreadful to most gents. However, does this really mean that the modern gentleman has an excuse for sloppy attire? Are there alternative dress code policies for a meeting, the office or a summertime event that can ensure both comfort and sharpness? Absolutely.
The Norm
Although every workplace has different dress code policies regarding summer work attire, in general, it is critical you look appropriate, professional, and stylish,look appropriate, professional, and stylish, regardless of the work environment (formal or casual) you are in. This means no flip-flops at work, please. This is not the time to slack off rather than a superb opportunity to branch out into different fabrications and colours. And, what better way to stay and look cool during the hottest season of the year than with a summer suit. Allow us to explain the small details that will make all the difference.
Summer Suit: What to Look for
1. Construction
Who can argue that suits comprise a key component of the modern gent’s wardrobe? Nevertheless, the construction of the suit, which will determine its texture, weight, and breathability, is one of the most vital things you need to pay attention to when trying to find the best suit for you.
For example, a half-lined or unlined suit may call for some sacrifices in regards its structure but will allow you for much more coolness and ventilation.
2. Material/Fabric
A looser weave in the fabric and lightweight clothes will help you keep cool and provide for more airflow while also minimise heat at the same time.
Some of the fabrics that are ideal for the hotter months to help you look professional and structured without compromising on appearance are linen, cotton, fresco wool (yes, indeed – you will see why below), and chambray.
I) Linen
Its light weight makes it a classical material for summer and a very popular fabric for summer suits. Linen has a visible weave and is made from the fibers of the flax plant. It also has an excellent natural texture, although it is very susceptible to wrinkling. Nevertheless, this is often considered part of its charm, rather than an annoyance! To avoid the copious wrinkling at work, though, you need to wear a linen suit that also contains some wool or cotton.
II) Cotton
A great option that allows you to achieve a casual, yet totally refined, summer-friendly look. The cotton suit is certainly a highly versatile choice. Try it in shades of always popular khaki or dare to be more adventurous and go for something more playful and quirky, such as baby blue and lavender!
Note: Compared to your wool suiting, cotton is much cooler, though a bit stiffer too.
The in last few years, the Seersucker suit is considered to be the latest in menswear fashion, and its popularity is growing year after year. The seersucker is a unique cotton fabric with a distinguishing crinkled surface and strategic puckering. Its signature striped look offers you an alternative to business-appropriate summer ensemble, as long as the dress code in your office is not all that formal.
III) Fresco Wool
Fresco wool has nothing to do with the wool you wear in the winter. In fact, fresco wool (which means “fresh” from the Italian “affresco”) is a material that allows the fabric to be very durable and airy. This is because it consists of high-twisted wool (multiple yarns), which gives a crisp look and feel to the fabric, allowing the suit to look extremely elegant and refined, and an open weave that allows for max air flow. So, wearing a fresco wool suit will make you feel nothing but fresh and cool!
Fresco wool could even work better than linen or cotton, given that it wicks away sweat as opposed to its other counterparts that absorb it.
IV) Chambray (aka Cambic)
It is a lightweight cotton fabric (very close relative to denim) that is comfortable, durable, sturdy, and slightly glossy; ideal for summer business suiting (see J. Crew, Armani, and Valentino labels for some inspiration!). You will definitely be surprised by its soft touch and airy flow.
3. Colour
Light greys and khakis, and, generally speaking, all light shades, reflect heat instead of absorbing it like wintertime charcoal, grey, navy, and black suits do. Do try bold hues and don’t be afraid to introduce vibrancy into your wardrobe.
Light grey, in particular, works well with almost all summer fabric, and is perceived to be very close to the tried-and-true charcoal grey. With a pocket square and a bold tie, you can instantly transform a light grey fresco suit into an elegant, yet oh-so-dashing, office-perfect piece.
Attention-grabbing baby blue, on the other hand, is your best option to move away from the darker shades of the navy blue suit staple and still be confident you have a refined shade to appear at work and look even more youthful and fun. It works beautifully with blue & white seersucker and linen.
Finally, a khaki suit is perfect for any event that takes place during daytime. In the evening, though, it might be best to opt out of wearing it as it could look a bit too informal. That being said, if you accessorise it properly, it can look extremely put together. Wear it with a pink button-down shirt with a patterned tie or a blue/white striped button-down shirt and a navy tie and steal impressions.
Other colours to consider are:
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Red, from cherry and crimson to firetruck that could complement any wardrobe with a strong arsenal of basic suit shades.
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Berry (aka maroon), which could also help you make the transition into your fall wardrobe.
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Stone, which is one of the most popular colours in 2017 menswear trends. It is a shade that hits between sandy beige and white and makes a great colour for a suit and an excellent alternative to stark white jeans. Plus, it suits all skin types perfectly.
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Pink, in particular, dusty rose. If you don’t want to get too bold, you can just add a splash of it by slipping a dusty rose crew neck tee under your suit or wear it in full summer suit form, which is the most popular way to sport it for sure!
4. Pattern
Vertical stripes have emerged victorious and are seen in many different widths this year. Although a menswear classic, stripes now blend with pastel hues clashed with darker shades.
Squares are everywhere this season and are either put together in varying sizes or used by designers for a burst on tailoring or outwear.
A pyjama shirt is, without a doubt, one of the most casual items a man could have in his wardrobe. What is indeed unbelievable, though, is how hugely elegant it can look when worn in broad daylight. Contrast piping is what makes all the difference and can make you look (and feel) like you are on your way for a few cocktails on your luxe yacht, even if you are struggling for the best position near the AC unit in an office!
Note: The shorts suit is also having a moment in men’s summer fashion for several years now. It is like a regular suit only the long pants give their place to above the knee, tailored shorts. Although opinions vary as per how formal or informal this look is, it is definitely worth a try.
5. Accessories
You can be as creative or minimal as you wish and complete a suit at the same time just by using the right accessories.
The idea is to maintain balance. So, if you like to keep your suits simple and light, try to choose a couple of loud accessories (i.e. a patterned tie, statement watch or bright socks). If you sport a suit in a bold pattern or colour, then focus on keeping the accessories simple to help refine the look.
When it comes to ties, a seersucker or linen tie can help you accentuate your summer look, especially when matched with a pocket square.
As for footwear, two-in-one shoes with a fold-down-back feature (a heel that can make the shoe into a mule due to supple, unstructured leather that flattens underneath the foot) are on trend this year and help you add an instant summer vibe to every outfit. From loafers to skate shoes, and everything in between, the fold-down feature is a detail that appears more than often.
Finally, sunglasses are now bolder and bigger than ever before and come with super-thick frames (either perfectly round or angular), tinted lenses, eye-catching patterns, and details that make them particularly interesting, such as acetate overlays. Shades with half frames and retro shapes that have been given a more modern vibe, as well as the classic tortoiseshell, offer the modern man a great array of eyewear options to choose from.
Looking put together and stylish is a no-brainer, after all, right? Now you know, you won’t let the hot weather prevent you from looking dapper!
So, how do you make sure you are comfortable, sophisticated, and fresh even in the heat, all summer long? Have tricks and tips not mentioned in the post? Do share in the comments below!