Knowing what to wear to a wedding can be tricky, especially in the summertime. But fear not, this guide will help you navigate different dress code situations and ensure you’re appropriately dressed for every occasion.
BLACK TIE: For any black-tie wedding, a black or midnight blue tuxedo is always the preferred choice. In summer, opt for a lighter weight fabric with a blend of mohair. Mohair is stronger than wool and retains less heat so it is the perfect summer option. Having your jacket half-lined is another good heat hack. Pair your tux with a pleated tuxedo shirt made in a voile fabric for a traditional yet comfortable look. Round out your ensemble with a bow tie, a cummerbund, and polished dress shoes. Don’t forget the finishing touches: cufflinks, studs, and braces.
Think of cocktail attire as the stylish middle ground between black tie and semi-formal. While black tie has you donning a tuxedo, cocktail attire is your chance to be suave yet approachable. This dress code is usually reserved for evening soirees, where semi-formal is typically the purview of daytime affairs. A sharp dark suit is essential – black is ideal but midnight blue is equally appropriate and more versatile in other situations. Pair it with a crisp white dress shirt, a tasteful tie, and polished dress shoes. You’ll look effortlessly cool, even if you do end up dancing the Macarena.
Ah, semi-formal—the middle seat of dress codes, sandwiched between fancy and casual attire. This dress code is most common for dressy daytime parties. Since the sun isn’t yet down, it’s not as fancy as cocktail attire, where you’d need to channel your inner James Bond, nor is it as relaxed as casual, where a polo and khakis might suffice. While a sport coat and dress trousers are appropriate, we suggest opting for a statement summer suit in ivory, baby blue, green, or pink. Neckwear is optional but encouraged, and a pocket square is a must. Pair with a crisp dress shirt and sharp loafers (socks optional). You’ll strike the perfect balance between looking dapper and feeling comfortable, ready to impress without the stress.
Casual dress—the laid-back cousin in the dress code family. It’s all about keeping it relaxed yet refined. So, let’s break it down: casual doesn’t mean sloppy, but it’s definitely not as fancy as semi-formal attire. Think of it as your chance to showcase effortless style. A sport coat is your secret weapon here—it adds a touch of class without overdoing it. Pair it with chinos or well-fitted jeans, and a crisp, casual shirt (save the Hawaiian prints for the beach). Suede loafers or clean sneakers are perfect for your feet. You’ll nail the look, sticking the landing between relaxed and sophisticated.
This is less about a strict dress code and more about situational awareness—the destination matters. A celebration on Lake Como may be just as fancy as a party at the Plaza. While a BoHo beach wedding might call for shorts and sandals, a Jackson Hole jubilee might require boots and bolo ties. The common thread? Laid-back luxe is the name of the game. Check with your hosts for clarification, then give us a call to get you kitted out. Cheers to summer!
