The Coolest Alternatives to Boring Summer Suits
Whether you’re heading to a wedding or you’re up for jury duty, call on these off-kilter two pieces to make a statement
It’s hot, the bride and groom/judge/your boss expect you to turn up wearing a suit, but frankly, you don’t want to. The solution? An unexpectedly chic-yet-low key matching two piece which does the whole elegance/looking like you care job, whilst also making you feel comfortable and - more importantly - unique.
1 | The Wrap-Around One
British workwear brand Universal Works is a great option for folksy tailoring with an easy-on-the-body, easy-on-the-wallet aesthetic.
This wraparound suit in tropical navy wool is great for spring or autumn and will make you look like the most stylish ninja at the wedding.
2 | The Affordable (Yet Chic) One
Massimo Dutti’s design-led Studio Line is actually great for considered basics with an unconventional cut. This roomy jacket and pleated trouser combo would look ace with a tonal silk shirt and a little red neckerchief.
3| The Sexy One
Nothing like a fluid trouser and close-cut waistcoat combo to get the GUN SHOW ROLLING. To be honest, though, I reckon this would look just as great with weedy arms like mine as it would a set of bulked up biceps…better even. Maybe.
4 | The Roomy One
Studio Nicholson’s Autumn Winter collection has dropped and this technical nylon and cotton Japanese crinkle fabric two-piece is one of the best things about it. Wear with a heavyweight CDLP white tee (or a white shirt) and some caramel suede Loewe slip-ons.
5 | The Fabulous One
Nothing says “I’m here, and I’m going to steal the bride’s thunder” with more high pitched aplomb than a slinky pussy bow shirt.
Team this taupe one (the shade of which brings a touch of necessary understatement to the look) with some matching pleated trousers.
6 | The Arty One
Ludicrously expensive and in need of a good steam, there’s something 90s Helmut Lang-cum-Martin-Margiela about this combat two piece from Prada which makes it worth considering, at least.
7 | The One for The Heat
Another (relative) bargain from Italist. This floaty pyjama-style two piece from dream brand Bottega Veneta is probably best reserved for the warmest of summer weddings.
8 | The Ever So Esoteric One
I’m totally here for this gloriously Gallic Bermuda and boat neck combo from Sud De France’s most talented son, Simon Porte Jacquemus. Wear the shirt tucked in and team with brown leather sandals (plus, une pédicure).
9 | The Forever One
I will always want to wear clothes made by Issey Miyake Homme Plisse. Easy to care for, as comfortable as wearing air and surprisingly flattering, this clotted cream two piece is my selection for the summer season.
10 | The Souped-Up Soviet One
Ah Giorgio, if only your absolutely unimpeachable two-pieces-which-aren’t-suits weren’t so eye-wateringly expensive, I’d own them all!
This linen Stalinist number is one of my favourites but there are a whole host of excellent alternatives also available from the brand right now. First one to file for bankruptcy wins!
If you’re enjoying The Closet please consider upgrading to a paid subscription. It’s the cost of a coffee once a month and it will help me to continue producing this newsletter each and every week.