Dressing well in summer isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Warmer weather calls for lighter fabrics and softer tailoring, but it also demands a bit more attention to detail. Looking sharp while keeping cool is a balancing act, and not everyone gets it right.
At TruClothing, we’ve seen it all. From heavy suits worn on 30-degree days to footwear choices that miss the mark entirely, summer formalwear is full of common pitfalls. The good news? They’re all avoidable.
Here are five of the most common mistakes men make with summer formalwear, and how to make sure you’re not one of them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Fabric
This is the most obvious mistake, and somehow still the most common. Wearing a heavy wool suit or anything lined in thick polyester during the height of summer is a recipe for discomfort.
Instead, opt for breathable, lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton blends, or lightweight wool. They not only help regulate your temperature but also move and drape more naturally in warm weather. A well-cut suit in a summer fabric feels far more refined than one that leaves you visibly uncomfortable.
2. Sticking to Dark, Winter Colours
Deep navy, black and charcoal have their place, but summer isn’t it. Dark colours absorb heat and feel too heavy for daytime events. They also look slightly out of step with the setting, especially at weddings or garden parties.
Lighter tones such as stone, light grey, beige, powder blue or even soft green can completely change the mood of your look. They feel considered, seasonal and fresh without ever needing to be loud.
3. Overdoing the Layers
Yes, a three-piece suit looks sharp. But when temperatures rise, so does your body heat. Wearing a waistcoat, blazer, and tie under the midday sun is only going to leave you wilted before the reception even starts.
Know when to simplify. A well-fitted two-piece suit with a sharp shirt can look just as polished, especially when paired with the right accessories and shoes. You can always layer up later in the evening if the temperature dips.
4. Getting Footwear Wrong
This one’s easy to overlook, but it makes a big difference. Heavy leather dress shoes might be your default, but in summer they can feel clunky and overly formal, especially with a lighter-coloured suit.
Consider loafers, suede brogues, or lighter leather styles in tan or stone. Just make sure they’re clean, well kept, and suited to the tone of the event. And if you’re tempted to go sockless, make sure you’re using invisible socks.
5. Ignoring the Fit
Fit matters in every season, but in summer it becomes even more important. Baggy trousers and oversized jackets not only look less refined, they also trap heat and make you look more flustered than formal.
Lightweight suits should still be structured and shaped properly. Slim, breathable cuts with room to move are ideal. If you’re wearing something more relaxed, make sure it still feels intentional, not like you’ve borrowed it last minute.
Looking Sharp When the Heat’s On
Summer formalwear is about looking sharp without looking like you’re trying too hard. It should feel effortless, even if you’ve thought carefully about every part of your outfit. The trick is in the balance. Dressing smart without overheating, staying polished without feeling stiff.
At TruClothing, we believe great style starts with knowing the season and knowing how to make it work for you. Choose fabrics that breathe, colours that reflect the setting, and a fit that flatters. Get those right, and you’ll carry off any summer event with ease.