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THE SUMMER
SUIT GUIDE

Get the Look: your how-to guide

27.05.2014

WILLIAM OLIVER

M&S.com menswear editor

AS THE WEATHER
HOTS UP and the summer invites start to arrive, with them comes the ‘warm weather tailoring’ debate. Whether you’re off to a traditional do or an informal affair, our how-to guide will ensure you’re appropriately – and comfortably – dressed

THE NEW RULES

Summer suiting calls for lighter fabrics. Add interest with grey and blue hues and subtle patterns, such as Prince of Wales check. Keep cuts tailored or slim, though the jacket shouldn’t be tight across the shoulders

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PAY ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Ties and pocket squares make a strong statement when used to create a tonal look

A PERFECT SQUARE

Silk HandkerchiefShop now

THINK LONG TERM

Not just a smart choice for a host of summer events, a charcoal suit works well for the office

INTRODUCE TEXTURE

Sartorial Suede Chukka Boots
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MAKE A SMART INVESTMENT

This Savile Row Inspired suit, made using lightweight wool from the century-old Alfred Brown mill in Yorkshire, is a great buy for summer

1.
2.

SUITABLY RELAXED

Off to a far-flung wedding or low-key do? Consider a blazer and smart-casual trouser combo – our Linen Miracle range is breathable and great for travel. A well-chosen tie and pocket square will add formality to a relaxed outfit

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TRUE BLUE

Navy is ultra versatile, with endless styling options. Ideal for a wedding, it works equally well for a day at the office and an afternoon in the pub garden

SEEING RED

White trousers are a great choice for high-summer formality: they get you noticed and are cooling in the sun. Add a bold-coloured jacket to make sure the whole outfit doesn’t feel too neutral

SMART ENOUGH

If you’re opting for separates, make sure the blazer has a classic feel to keep on the right side of convention

3.

STAY SHARP

When the dress code says ‘formal’, you can still put a new spin on a traditional look. Modern fitted silhouettes are flattering, while adding a dose of colour with a tie or belt will inject personality. And, as the saying goes, shoes say a lot about a man. Brogues or monk-straps are smart, stylish and on trend

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GO BOLD

Freshen up a darker
suit with a contrasting
tie. Try bright blue
against a deep charcoal

Photos: John-Paul Pietrus / Stylist: Kenny Ho / Models: James Crabtree at Select, Sam Webb at Select

IN THE KNOW

A flash of colour or print from a jacket’s lining suggests modernity while remaining suitably formal

PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER

Use accessories to lift a classic three-piece suit. See the outfit as a whole, rather than a combination of elements

SLEEK FORMALITY

Sartorial Monk Strap Shoes
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TONAL HIGHLIGHT

Leather BeltShop now

THE SUMMER SUIT GUIDE

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