Judging from my own personal experience, summer wedding season is coming. Jaclyn and I are going to at least two, potentially three weddings this year and I’m sure a lot of you are in a similar position. It’s not like I’m upset about it, weddings are a blast. They’re a great chance to get dressed up (if you’re someone who doesn’t dress up every day), they’re an awesome opportunity to see friends and family you haven’t seen in awhile, and they (better) have an open bar. What’s not to love??
I’ve teamed up with Marks & Spencer to showcase a seriously affordable outfit that’s totally perfect for summer weddings. It’s as comfortable as a suit and tie can be, (let me say it again) awesomely affordable, and will have you staying stylish without being too loud and stealing attention away from the people who deserve it most. That’s rule number 1! I learned this the hard way. Don’t use a wedding as your chance to debut your pink plaid suit or double breasted pinstripe power suit. It’s about the bride and groom, not you, so here’s how to look your best without stealing the show.
Check out all of Marks & Spencer’s suits here.
Color
People may disagree, but as far as I’m concerned navy is the absolute best color for summer weddings. It’s classic, so you’re going to look great. It’s better than khaki because sometimes it’s weird to wear a suit that light in color to a night time wedding. If you look closely, this suit is actually a very subtle plaid. Navy hides patterns really well so that people can notice how good you look from 50 feet away thanks to the fit, but then get a second helping of impressiveness when they’re standing next to you, too.
The full suit is $203! Check it out here.
By now I would hope that it goes without saying that fit is key. Get something slim. A summer suit can be a bit less formal than a winter one, so take advantage and get something that’s nice and fitted.
Don’t Fear the Ankle
One move that I think is totally acceptable at a summer wedding is showing some ankle. Invest in some no show socks. Personally, I always have my pants tailored to have no break, meaning they sit just above the ankle. This way, if I’m wearing socks, they show. If I’m not, I keep myself a bit cooler by letting my ankles breathe. It sounds crazy, but I promise it makes a noticeable difference when there’s a bit of a breeze. If you aren’t quite ready to rock the high water style of pant, no show socks and a loafer or dress shoe still work with a traditional pant length. Be sure they’re not too bunchy, though, or you’ll look sloppy.
In terms of shoes, brown or oxblood work best. Black can work but it ends up being a bit weird. You’re going to look just as formal in a nicely shined pair of brown shoes, so stick with those.
Accessorize Accordingly
This is another area where you want to be aware of “peacocking”. That means that you don’t want to go overboard on accessories so as to draw unwanted attention to yourself. There’s no reason to have a bold pocket square with the points sticking out everywhere. Get something understated and classic so the intention of your move is there without looking like you’re trying too hard.
Also, if you’re wearing a navy suit. Absolutely never…EVER, wear a solid red tie. Unless you’re trying to look like the President, it’s not a good look. It’s like wearing a red polo and khaki chinos into a Target store. It’s bad form. Pink is extremely on trend right now, and it’s a perfect addition to a navy look. Also, don’t go overly bold on your watch choice. This isn’t a meeting with a client, you don’t need to be impressive with your massive gold Rolex.
Check out the tie and pocket square. Both work so nicely together.
Shirt Choice is Key
Keep in-line with the classics and you’ll look great. White shirts are the most classic piece in menswear. They’ve been worn for hundreds of years for a reason. Don’t stray too far with loud patterns. You can do another color if it’s muted, but you can never go wrong with white. This is my first french cuffed shirt, of which I’m now a huge fan. If you’re wearing a french cuff, also be sure that your cufflinks are understated and simple.
Grab this classic shirt here.
Weddings are a great time. They’re even more fun when you look your best without being distracting from the people whom you’re there to celebrate. Dress simply, with intention, and you’ll be setting a perfect example for yourself as the ideal wedding guest.
Check out Marks & Spencer for tons of other great clothing options. They have everything you could ever need for extremely affordable prices.
*this post is in collaboration with Marks & Spencer and Shopping Links
