Black Tie Fashion for Summer
Formal fashion for men might be practical, but it’s not always as comfortable as you’d like. The summer months present a particular problem since black tie styles involve a number of layers, many of which you’d rather do without in the heat. There are ways, though, to achieve that middle ground of looking crisp and feeling cool. You might have to bend the rules of fashion a bit, but you’ll be looking – and feeling – great anyway.
Hot Summer Colors
If you’ve watched your fair share of fashion shows for men, you would have noticed that spring and summer collections usually display quite a range of colors. The wider range of colors is a hallmark of summer style – and one that can apply to black tie as well.
While black will always be the default color for a tuxedo jacket, there are other options for the summer black tie event. White, for example, is perfectly suitable for formal gigs, especially ones held in high summer. It’s such a classic color, in fact, that the style rules for wearing it are almost identical to black.
A more modern choice is the near-white pastel, which combines the classic versatility of a white jacket with the cheekiness of that hint of color. Paired with slim black trousers and a tastefully solid tux shirt, it’s a subtle yet visible style statement to make. An equally slim navy bow tie – ideally one with no shine to the fabric – adds a classic touch to balance out the nouveau attitude of the jacket.
Summer-Friendly Attire
There are other ways to tweak a black tie outfit for summer. Leaving out the bow tie is one option to both dress down and sweat-proof your outfit. Be sure to leave all the other touches of a gentleman, however; gents never leave without a pocket square.
You might think this move bordering on sacrilege, a black tie outfit without the bow tie. It’s a permissible move during summer events, especially when the host plans the party outdoors. As a contingency, you might want to try wearing a shirt with a subtle pattern or contrast buttons to draw attention away from the fact that you’re skipping out on the tie.
Seasonal Attitude
In fashion, spring and summer are always associated with bright, happy colors and bold prints. It’s a philosophy that you can carry over to a black tie event, provided that you do so with some restraint and a whole lot of tastefulness.
A titular black bow tie might seem a little too somber for summer, so you can swap it out for something with a print, such as a check or a small floral. This immediately channels a very friendly summer vibe, while at the same time staying true to the dress code. If you want to take this slightly unorthodox route, remember to keep all of your other items classic and understated; you don’t want to make too big of a style splash at the party.
Play around with adding a touch of print or color to your outfit: in your bow tie, your socks or your pocket square. It’s a daring move, and one that only the true style-savvy gentleman would be able to pull off.
Other Suggested Readings from TheTieKing:
White Tie Guide for Men
Cuffed Dress Pants Guide
Your Tie King: Your Site for Mens Designer Ties