How to Wear a Suit in Summer

You can look elegant in a suit even on a hot summer day. These practical tips cover fabric, fit, colour and care to help you stay comfortable when the temperature rises.

Three men in colourful jackets beside a river

Choose the right fabric

For summer, consider breathable natural fibres such as lightweight wool or linen. Look for a lower fabric weight or a tropical wool weave. Linen has a relaxed texture and naturally creases; silk is often more practical as part of a blend than as the main suit fabric. Choose a material for the occasion and the way you plan to wear the suit.

Man in a light-coloured suit beside a white Vespa

Choose a comfortable cut

A summer suit should let you move comfortably. A less restrictive cut can also give air more room to circulate.

Consider lighter colours

Lighter colours reflect more sunlight than dark ones. Light grey, beige, pale blue and soft pastels can all work well for a summer suit.

If you are just getting started, take a look at our guide to choosing your first suit, which can help you avoid common mistakes.

Close-up of three summer outfits with jackets, a waistcoat and trousers

Keep the accessories light

If the dress code allows it, leave the tie or bow tie at home. A pocket square and an open top shirt button can make the outfit feel more relaxed.

Man in a mint-green jacket with a patterned pocket square

Consider a lighter lining

A lightly lined or unlined jacket may feel more breathable in summer. An unlined jacket can also crease more readily, especially in natural fabrics.

Detail of a pink jacket showing its inside pocket and monogram

Try an unstructured jacket

A jacket with little or no shoulder padding, inspired by Neapolitan tailoring, can feel lighter in warm weather.

Close-up of a pink jacket shoulder and pocket square

Loafers instead of dress shoes

In summer, suede loafers can be a comfortable alternative to dress shoes. A slightly shorter trouser length and low-cut socks complete the look.

We describe the process from your first meeting to collecting your suit, step by step, in our article on what happens at the first consultation.

Brown suede loafers worn with light-coloured trousers

Care for your suit

Regular care helps a suit keep its appearance. In summer, let it air between wears and freshen it with steam; follow the garment’s care label and seek professional cleaning when needed.

Comfort and elegance can go together. Choose a suitable fabric and cut, care for the suit properly, and focus on feeling at ease in what you wear.

Three men in light-coloured summer jackets by a river

Style and comfort: open collars and rolled sleeves

How many shirt buttons should you leave open?

An open collar can feel more comfortable in the heat. Let the setting and dress code guide how relaxed you make the look.

Casual settings: In an informal setting, you can leave the top two shirt buttons open for a more relaxed look.
Professional settings: At work or a more formal event, leave only the top button open if the dress code allows it.

How to roll up your shirt sleeves

Rolling up your sleeves can make an outfit feel more relaxed. Here are three ways to do it:

Simple roll: Fold the cuff up once for a neat, casual finish.
Double roll: Fold the cuff up, then roll it once more for a firmer, textured finish.
Tucked roll: Roll the sleeve and tuck the edge inward for a relaxed look.

Rolled sleeves suit leisure and other casual settings. At work or formal events, keep your sleeves down unless the occasion allows otherwise.

We hope these tips help you stay comfortable and look your best in a suit through the summer.

For a closer look at pricing, read our guide to the cost of a made-to-measure suit and what affects it most.