Summer Occasions
A Guide to Dress Codes
4 Min ReadSummer invites a calendar full of memorable moments, sun-drenched weddings, chic garden parties, laid-back seaside dinners. With each comes its own dress code and a chance to show your sartorial finesse. In this guide, we break down the most common summer dress codes and show you how to master them with ease and elegance.
)
)
Dress Code: Black Tie / Formal
The Summer Black Tie Event
Even in the height of summer, some occasions call for timeless formality. Think evening weddings, galas under the stars, or elegant receptions in city hotels or heritage estates. The rules are clear, but summer invites a subtle shift in how you wear them.
What to wear:
A black or midnight blue tuxedo in lightweight wool or tropical blends for comfort in warmer climates.
A classic white dress shirt, choose a pleated or pique bib front for texture and refinement.
A silk bow tie is non-negotiable, as are polished black leather shoes (patent if you’re going traditional).
Optional: A black cummerbund or waistcoat for a complete formal look.
If the invitation allows some seasonal flair, a white dinner jacket with black tuxedo trousers is an elegant warm-weather alternative. Avoid short sleeves, playful prints, or anything too relaxed. This is the moment to channel old-school elegance with a sharp modern edge.
)
)
)
Dress Code: Formal / Cocktail / Garden Party
The Summer Wedding
Weddings in summer often take place outdoors, think coastal venues, countryside villas or city rooftops.
What to wear:
A linen or lightweight wool suit in seasonal shades: sage, sand, or soft blue.
A crisp shirt, cutaway collar if you’re skipping the tie, or classic spread for a polished touch.
Loafers or suede brogues, preferably in tan or chocolate.
Pocket square in a complementary tone.
Avoid: Black or heavy fabrics, lean into breezy elegance.
)
)
)
Dress Code: Cocktail Attire / Dressy Casual
The City Rooftop Gathering
Urban soirées demand sleek, tailored dressing without going full formal.
What to wear:
A tailored unlined blazer in a summer wool or cotton blend.
Slim trousers or pleated drawstring styles in tonal colours.
A tucked-in polo or open-weave shirt.
Loafers or minimal sneakers, clean and intentional.
Avoid: Denim and loud prints, this is refined, not festival.
)
)
)