While most fits, colors, and patterns can lend themselves to year-round wedding wear when properly layered & styled, there are certain picks that are better suited for specific seasons. Though it's important to consider the setting and climate when choosing your color—let's face it, pastels in winter are generally a no-go—there's perhaps no more important factor than the seasonal fabric. Our guide to seasonal formal and cocktail wedding attire is your foundation for knowing which fabrics, styles & shades work best, and for what season.
After a long, cold winter, spring is that in-between time where it’s not exactly cold, yet not quite hot—nevertheless, it’s the season to shed some of those outer layers and welcome a more lightweight take on your style. Lighter fabrics and colors are at the core of spring style, though some layers are always welcome for those cool spring nights and more elevated spring wedding dress codes. When it comes to formal nuptials, fine wools blended with silk, cotton or linen are an excellent starting point for spring fabrics. Not only does this blend gives you the rich structure and resilience of wool, but linen and cotton make it breathable, while silk blends remain lightweight and undeniably luxurious.
Wool-silk blends — A breathable linen-silk blend in a faint green shade is the perfect spring pick.
When going formal this season, a 3-piece suit is a sure thing for a versatile transitional style. An elegant and adaptable piece like our mid-green linen & silk blend Havana suit boasts the perfect balance of classic refinement and seasonal color. After the ceremony, lose the tie and waistcoat for a cocktail-ready ensemble.
With spring weddings trending toward the easygoing side, it’s a perfect opportunity to bring in some loafers, chukkas, or (depending on the setting & dress code) even a pair of fine, Italian calf leather sneakers.
Summertime is the season to minimize the layers and maximize the breathability. With summer weddings tending to be much more relaxed than their fall counterparts, and so many taking place in outdoor settings, a few fabrics are the undisputed rulers of the season, but one stands in a league of its own—linen. A staple fit like our sand three-piece Havana makes an excellent choice. Tailored slim and crafted from a blend of linen and cotton to minimize linen’s characteristic wrinkling, this 3-piece suit makes a refined pick for any upscale summer wedding.
Lightly Colored Layers —TThe 3-piece sand-colored Havana suit in a linen blend is the perfect balance of style, depth & breathable comfort.
Remember, even formal summer weddings leave a little room for a touch of relaxed aesthetic, and this sophisticated and highly adaptable pick walks that line effortlessly. If you're looking for a more noticeable color, a wool suit blended with a touch of lustrous silk and breathable linen makes a great alternative. Structured, yet still airy enough for summer comfort, a suit in this blend, like our light blue 3-piece Havana, makes an unmissable wedding suit during the summer season.
Summer blues - When in doubt, a light blue suit in a balanced wool, silk & linen blend is always a safe choice.
When the summer wedding ceremony has run its course, and the time has come to cut a rug on the dance floor, this is a great opportunity to embrace a more relaxed and daring aesthetic! Our relaxed fit Roma suit, for example, is comfortably tailored for an unmistakably easygoing appeal that doesn't lose its elegance. Paired up with our off-white crocheted polo cardigan, this dynamic pairing celebrates bold texture and embraces the comfort of a loose, airy weave that'll keep you cool all night.
Semi-Formal Summer — A cool, lightweight fabric, like our cotton-silk crocheted polo cardigan in, is a bold & comfortable layer.
When it comes to summer comfort, and undisputed cocktail-ready style, you can’t beat this polo’s silk-linen fabric.And of course, you can bring it all together with sockless leather or suede loafers, a relaxed-yet-refined style that's perfect at any well-considered spring wedding.
When the weather starts cooling down a little bit, most of us jump at the opportunity to bust out the big layers and indulge in soft, insulating fabrics. But when it comes to weddings in the fall, there’s no need to go overboard on excessively heavy fabrics. Step into the season with deeper tones, mid-weight fabrics, and rich textures. For those fall weddings, it never hurts to emphasize seasonal colors like taupe,browns, camel or other natural earth tones.
Bring in a Fall-Friendly Knit — A slim turtleneck makes a comfortable, yet still formal, substitute for the shirt & tie for those cooler fall months.
Our sand Roma suit brings an earthy hue that gets noticed without being overbearing. A bold, timeless style tailored in a relaxed fit, this cocktail-ready piece comes in soft S110's Italian wool for a well-rounded piece that's as easy to move in as it is refined.
When it comes to bringing the fall wedding looks together, keep the footwear simple. Lace-ups are a classic go-to with some try all-purpose appeal. If you want a touch of panache, a monk strap also makes a perfectly acceptable option.
Winter is the time to embrace layers, heavy fabrics, deep shades, and textured finishes. This season, it’s easy to go overboard, but when it comes to classically formal winter wedding style, stick to the tried & true basics. Suit in navy, grey or taupe shades makes a timeless winter-ready option. If you’re looking to add a little pattern, you can add some thin windowpane checks, pinstripes or even a chalk stripe for a touch of tasteful flair.
Checked Layers — Keep warm at those winter weddings with a wool & cashmere 3-piece suit in a tasteful micro houndstooth check.
To stay warm & comfortable in any setting, a heavier fabric like wool flannel & cashmere blends adds a subtle touch of texture but remains elegant enough for an upscale wedding. Soft wool and cashmere blends, like our taupe houndstooth check 3-piece Havana bring plenty of timeless luxury in a practical winter fabric. For a more cocktail-ready appeal, a single-breasted suit in wool flannel brings a classic aesthetic that works in just about any setting.
To add an extra layer of warmth, a single-breasted overcoat like our Vicenza fit is a simple, refined layer that complements any look. If you want something with a little more personality, our bold Bleecker fit features a wide peak lapel, martingale detail and double-breasted front—the broad collar is also great in case you get caught in an unexpected snow flurry. Speaking of the possibility of snow, you'll want to stay away from the suede when it comes to footwear. Go for leather boots or even a luxurious hiker if the wedding is (for some reason) taking place outdoors. For the reception, switch gears with a derby or classic lace-up.