What to wear: summer black tie weddings

It’s no surprise that black tie weddings are on the rise – tuxedos, bow ties and a polished pair of shoes are the epitome of elegance. If you’re a groom, they’re a great way of ensuring everything feels cohesive, and you don’t have to worry about someone showing up in a colour or outfit you’re not particularly fond of. If you’re a guest, however, half the decision on what to wear has already been made for you. Let’s look at some of the options available.

The classic black tie look

There’s nothing quite like a traditional tuxedo with all the trimmings. But some black-tie suits can be on the slightly heavier side, which you really don't want in the summer heat. Our warm-weather take is crafted from a linen blend with a little added stretch, so you'll be comfortable all day long. The double breasted closure smartens things up, while the wider lapel adds a vintage touch. Remember to pair yours with a dress shirt – Marcella shirts are slightly stiffer than other dress shirts, adding structure to your look.

The shawl lapel

If a notch lapel isn’t for you, try a tuxedo with a shawl lapel instead. You can learn more about all the different types of lapels here, but essentially, shawl lapels don’t feature notches or breaks in the fabric, instead consisting of one rounded, continuous edge that cascades all the way down to the buttonhole. They come in a variety of widths - ours are on the thinner side for a sleeker look. This one comes in a slim fit for a refined look.

The white tie look

If you really want to stand out from the crowd, white-tie is a great alternative to traditional dresswear. In a flattering slim fit, our camel tux features satin trims on the lapel and pockets that add a level of sophistication. Depending on the level of formality you're going for, you might be able to get away with a lighweight knit as a base layer - just make sure you check in with the bride and groom so they're not disappointed by your choice of attire.

If you want to experiment a bit, you don’t have to go all out with the full suit – the jacket is more than enough to set the tone and get the heads turning. Keep it classic with black dress trousers and shoes, and choose a dress shirt with ruffles or folds on the placket for an extra bit of interest. Finish it off with a puffy bow-tie.

Remember to look to your wedding invite for this one – some black-tie dress codes may not include the option to wear white.

The finishing touches

Accessories are one of the most important parts of dresswear. There’s plenty of options, too – though lovers of more traditional black-tie styles will veer towards high-shine shoes such black monks, or a patent loafer. Alternatively, try a velvet slipper for a vintage feel.

As for bow ties, the world is your oyster. You can go classic with a traditional black version, try a contemporary take with oversized velvet, or make a statement with colour and pattern. It’s really down to your personality and personal preference. If you want to add a bit of character to your outfit without going overboard, our silk paisley or grosgrain bow-ties feature a subtle texture that’ll add a little contrast to a black-tie look.