Linen: The King of Cool, Casual Fabrics
For guys looking to stay cool during the hot spring and summer months without sacrificing style or sophistication, linen fabrics are the ideal choice for a variety of different summertime garments.
Derived from the flax plant, linen was used for years primarily in draperies and bedding (from which the term “bed linens” originates). Linen is lighter and more breathable than most cottons, albeit less flexible as a fabric - giving linen its characteristically care-free wrinkled look.
Linen Shirts
The linen shirt is a staple of any summer wardrobe. Light and breezy, this shirt pairs exceptionally well with chinos and shorts for a smart, casual summer look.
The wrinkling inherent in linen fabrics is definitely its most prominent feature, albeit perfectly suited for the relaxed, casual nature of a linen shirt itself. This is a shirt that is perfect for boating, beachgoing, or getting out and about on any warm summer night.
White linen shirt with contrast blue inner collar
A white linen shirt will contrast well under most summer-weight wool suits, as well, a look that can be best pulled off open-collared, sans necktie.
Linen Trousers
A perfect mixture of style and breathability, linen trousers will frequently feel as light (or lighter) than shorts. Whenever shorts feel inappropriate or overly casual for a given occasion (i.e., nightclub or restaurant dress codes), linen pants are the ideal alternative.
Tan linen trousers are a nice light contrast to any blue blazer
Stylistically speaking, linen trousers are typically fit a bit looser for maximum breathability and often feature a cuffed hem. A lower-cut shoe - be it a loafer, slipper or even a monk strap - will work best, and socks should be avoided regardless of shoe style.
A slightly looser, straight-leg fit is ideal for a linen trouser
The Linen Suit
The linen suit, in a wide variety of styles and colors, is a crucial aspect of any summer wedding wardrobe.
There’s no better way to remain cool and dressy than in a linen suit jacket. Linen suit jackets are frequently half-lined on the interior, allowing air to circulate to the lower back and keep you comfortable in the heat. This is a notable leg up the warmer four-season wool suit, making linen a favorite of many an outdoor summer wedding for guests and groom alike.
The linen blazer is yet another staple, allowing for a more sophisticated casual look for all manner of summer events. Contrast is ideal with the linen blazer: a light blue or grey linen jacket with navy chinos, or a navy linen jacket with light grey or tan trousers.
