Wedding season is upon us and chances are you have at least one or two to attend this summer, which begs the question: “What does a Gent Wear to a Summer Wedding?”
First rule: Read the invitation! Even if an explicit dress code is not stated, a lot of clues can be inferred from the details, such as the time of the ceremony and the location of the event.
When black tie is stated on the invitation, this means you need to break out the black tuxedo. Evening ceremonies at upscale establishments may also require a formal dress code, even if it is not explicitly specified on the invitation. Remember it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Revisit our previous article, “The Gents Guide to Dress Codes” for more information about black tie options.
Casual or informal weddings offer the most interpretation and leeway for attire. These are the events that are in the afternoon or early evening and are usually held at a less formal location, such as a winery, farm, or even the beach. Keep in mind that no matter how casual the event, you still want to present yourself as a modern-day gentleman. This is a very important day in two people’s life and a gent is respectful of that.
A few final rules of thumb:
- Include at least one formal element.
- Adhere to a dress chino or suit trouser.
- Always steer clear of shorts.
- Don’t be afraid to have a little fun and let your personality show through, just be conscious of the couple and make sure not to steal the spotlight.
Again, when in doubt always opt for a more formal look. You can’t go wrong with a classic, well-fitted suit in a lighter color (think grey, light brown, or brilliant blue). Opting for a lighter fabric is also a great choice. Remember, you can always remove the jacket after the ceremony to present a more casual (and cooler) look.
