Summer Celebrations: Weddings, Races, and Prom Style
Summer is finally here and you’re social calendar is probably filling up fast. Weddings, the races, prom night - so many invites, but the big question is, what are you going to wear? Figuring out summer suits can be tricky, not least because of the unpredictable weather. Add to that the specific dress codes for each event and it can be a bit of a minefield. But don’t stress! This guide is here to help. We’ll show you how to pick the perfect style for those summer celebrations. Weddings, races, and prom will be a breeze, and you'll feel amazing.
Understanding Summer Suit Fabrics
The secret to summer suits is all about choosing the right styles for the occasion. From wool mix to elastane blends, they all have a role to play. Let's check out some top options.
Elastane Blend: The Flexible Classic
Elastane and Lycra blend fabrics are perfect for summer occasions. Made to be more flexible and provide more comfort. Suits made with these fabrics are perfect for all-day events as they ingeniously retain their shape, allowing for a polished and tailored appearance that lasts throughout the day.
Wool Blends: Balancing Formality and Comfort
Wool might sound crazy for summer, but wool blends can actually work! These blends are more breathable and lighter than pure wool. They offer structure, keeping their tailored appearance to help you maintain that sharp look. Not only that wool blend tweeds are perfect for a myriad of occasions, in particular, weddings and the races, so if you’re looking for a suit that is versatile for both occasions, then a wool blend tweed is a great choice.
Summer Wedding Suits: Dress Code Decoded
Summer weddings come in all shapes and sizes. Figuring out the dress code is the key to nailing that summer look. Whether it’s a modern black tie wedding or a reach beach vibe, your suit choices depends on the invitation.
Formal (Black Tie Optional)
A black tie optional dress code usually means the wedding is going to be formal. A tuxedo is normally the suit of choice, but you could also wear a dark suit. Opt for navy or charcoal grey and make sure the fabric is lightweight or an elastane blend. Style with a crisp white shirt, black bowtie and black shoes for a classic look. Our Dalton Suit comes in black, navy and royal blue.
Semi-Formal/Cocktail
A semi-formal dress code is one of the most versatile codes. Not too stuffy but also not too casual. Lighter colours like sky blues, pastel greens or pinks work well. Patterns like subtle checks or stripes also work well. For semi-formal events, you can leave the shirt collar open for a more relaxed look, but add a pocket square to keep the look on the formal side.
Casual/Beach Wedding
Beach weddings are all about comfort and light, airy colours. Beige toned suits tend to be the colour of choice. Our HM5 Suit is perfect for destination weddings and is made with a lycra blend fabric, ensuring you stay comfortable all day. It's also available in sky blue if you’re seeking something brighter. Accessories for beach weddings depend entirely on the formality. Some destination weddings are super casual and don’t require any neckwear, some are a little more formal and require this.
Suiting Up for the Races: Style and Spectacle
The races are a great opportunity to show off your style. Gone are the days when the races are just about the horses, it’s very much about the fashion too. There are classic looks and modern takes, so let's explore them both.
The Classic Races Look
Traditional race day attire is all about tweed and checks. Think earthy shades of browns, greens and tans to complement the environment and atmosphere. A tweed suit is a classic choice, opt for a style thats versatile and can be worn again. Our Ted Tan Check Suit is the perfect choice. Style with a bold tie, simple pocket square and Chelsea boots for a refined, showstopping look. Feeling like you want to add a little extra pizzaz? Add a hat or scarf to give the look an edge.
Modern Race Day Style
Whilst tweed is the quintessential look why not opt for a more modern approach? Bold colours are a great way to make a statement and stand out from the crowd. Our Monty Mauve Pink Suit is bold but in an understated way. Style with a striped shirt, simple tie and brown shoes for a classic, refined look. Or alternatively, style the blazer with our HM5 Trousers and tonal cashmere jumper for a modern designer-inspired look.
Footwear and Accessories
The right footwear and accessories are essential and can make or break a look. For tweed suits, opt for brogues or Chelsea boots. These are sturdy options that will cope well with a little mud at the races! Loafers in soft suede are an excellent choice for summer beach weddings, whereas black dress shoes are the only choice when it comes to black tie dressing.
Ties, bowties and pocket squares are a chance to show off your style. Choose classic accessories that are not overly flashy, and try to coordinate details such as subtle colors in the tie with those in your pocket square to help create a cohesive look.
Prom Suits: Making a Statement
Proms are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, so much so that we’ve seen a huge surge in interest for prom related content. But what exactly should you wear to prom? A classic black tie look? Or something more trendy? The answer is all of the above! Prom is a great opportunity to showcase your personal style, and you’re only young once so be bold! Let's look at some options.
Classic Prom Looks
A classic prom suit is a solid, dependable choice. Consider navy, black, or grey, as these colors are timeless and versatile. You can use that prom suit for future occasions like interviews or presentations.. Pair with a dress shirt and simple shoes that are comfortable. You can't go wrong with a classic suit. It's simple, yet makes a statement.
Modern and Trendy Prom Styles
Not a suit kinda guy? A blazer and trouser combo is a great alternative to a formal three-piece suit. Opt for a modern double-breasted style our Rocco Pinstripe Blazer and style with some black chinos or trousers. Keep the look simple and pair with a crips white shirt and keep the collar open. A modern prom style is all about making a statement. Be bold, be confident, and have fun with it.
Accessorising Your Prom Suit
Accessories are a chance to personalise your prom suit. A bow tie adds a touch of sophistication, whilst a pocket square shows attention to detail. Choose accessories that reflect your personality.
Suit up in style with Marc Darcy
Explore our superb collection of Men's Suits to make sure you cut a dashing and sophisticated figure at all the summer occasions.
Need some more style inspiration, or advice from handy buying guides? Make sure to check out the Marc Darcy blog…
Disclaimer: any information given in this article is merely opinion, and should not be taken as financial management advice. If you need to, please contact the appropriate advisors or financial services for more information.
