Invited to a wedding, or standing as a groomsman next to the groom? In summer, it's all about a well-groomed but comfortable look: a smart polo or shirt, the right shoes and attention to detail. Below is our complete guide, from top to shoes.
Short answer: combine a smart polo or shirt with neat trousers and opt for leather loafers or moccasins. Keep it understated and in line with the dress code; as a groomsman, subtly coordinate your look with the groom's.
The top: smart polo or shirt
The top sets the tone of your look. A solid polo of good quality looks well-groomed without being stiff, while a light shirt is slightly more formal. Stick to quiet colours — white, light blue, soft green — and pay attention to the fit around shoulders and collars.
With a formal dress code you'll lean towards a shirt, possibly with a blazer; if it's an informal or outdoor wedding, a smart polo works perfectly. Avoid large logos and busy prints — subtle always looks more refined. Think of Stone Island, Casablanca and Valenza. View the full range at men's polos.
The shoes: loafers and moccasins
For a summer wedding, leather loafers or moccasins are ideal: elegant, light and smart. A suede version looks softer and more summery, smooth leather more formal. A colour like cognac, dark brown or black suits almost any outfit.
Wear loafers with invisible socks or on bare ankles for a smart summer look. Good leather soles and neat finishing make the difference — and last for years. Think of Santoni, Tod's, Sebago and Atelier Verdi. View the full range at men's loafers & moccasins.
- Polish your loafers beforehand and use a shoehorn to spare your heel.
Or perhaps a smart sneaker
If the dress code is a bit more relaxed, a crisp white leather sneaker works well. Keep it clean, without striking branding, and pair with smart trousers for a well-groomed overall look.
A minimalist leather sneaker looks more modern than a classic shoe and stays comfortable throughout a long celebration. Think of Axel Arigato, Golden Goose and Off-White. View the full range at men's sneakers.
The complete look in short
Build your outfit from top to bottom:
- smart polo or light shirt in a quiet colour
- neat trousers or chinos, in line with the dress code
- leather loafers or moccasins (or a clean white sneaker)
- subtle accessories: a leather belt and perhaps a watch
- as a groomsman, coordinate colour and formality with the groom
A wedding outfit doesn't have to be complicated: choose quality, understated pieces that suit the occasion and the weather. That way you'll look smart without being too warm all day.
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Frequently asked questions
What do you wear as a groomsman at a summer wedding?
A smart polo or shirt with neat trousers and leather loafers. Subtly coordinate colour and formality with the groom, without outshining him.
Can you wear sneakers to a wedding?
At an informal or outdoor wedding, a crisp, clean white leather sneaker can work. With a formal dress code, opt for leather loafers or smart shoes.
