What are you going to wear? Sometimes it’s good to look at a few suggestions then add your own tweaks and ideas. That’s what these are for. Dressing for summer weddings can be tough. Today’s scenario is for the most common, and most dressed up weddings. The ceremony will be outdoors, or, in a (poorly ventilated) church. The reception will be held after in a nearby hall. One of the groomsmen (or the groom!) might pass out from heat stroke. Here’s one way to look your best while avoiding what most other men will wear… namely, a dark, heat absorbing suit + stuffy starched shirt and shiny tie combo.
The Suit: Suitsupply Napoli Light Grey Plain w/ MoP Buttons – $399. Yes, you could go with a cheaper linen suit instead, but if you’re sweatin’, linen just won’t bounce back after it gets wet like a lightweight wool will. And this wool option from Suitsupply is a perfect, mid to light shade of grey. It is fully lined, but stay hydrated and try to avoid direct sun, and you should be okay.
The Shirt: Nordstrom SmartCare Gingham ‘ $39.90 ($69.50). Yes, it IS a traditional fit. But it’s also on sale. Use those extra savings to get it tailored, or, accept that no one will see that extra fabric when you’ve got your jacket on. Plus, a little wiggle room in a shirt when it’s hot isn’t a bad idea.
The Tie: TheTieBar Navy Silk Knit IN 2.75 INCHES WIDE – $25. Yes really. Give a 2.75″ wide, knit tie a shot. That extra width can look great next to lapels like that of the Napoli. There’s a bit more strength to a tie like that, not such a skinny line of fabric hanging from your neck. But if you’re on the thin side, it might overwhelm. So the slim 2″ option would be more than fine.
The Watch: Daniel Wellington York – $92.00
The Belt: Original Penguin Reversible Belt – $19.97. It’s… a dress belt.
The Socks: Nordstrom Wool Blend Over the Calf Dress Socks – $14.50. Getting tired of seeing these things yet? Don’t knock wool socks in the heat until you try them. They’ll help keep your feet as cool and dry as possible.
The Shoes: Mercanti Fiorentini Burgundy Plain Toe Oxford ‘ $139.95. The less fortunate man’s Carlyle. Made in Italy. Smooth, soft leather. And Mercs are usually comfortable right out of the box.
The Sunglasses: American Optical Original Pilot in Matte Chrome – $48.35. If it’s sunny as hell, the last thing you want is to be causing other’s to squint from the glare coming off your sunglasses. Keep it matte. All business here. Link goes to the 55mm option. If you’ve got a big noggin’, try the 57mm option here.
The Wallet: Mitchell Leather Money Clip Wallet in Horween Chestnut – $79. Made in the USA from Horween’s “Dublin” leather, which is cowhide that goes through the same recipe of oils that Cordovan goes through. The wallet provides easy access to cash, which bartenders & servers will appreciate. More info here.