Still being able to wear a jacket is something that I try and do as much as possible. Whilst sometimes it simply becomes too hot for anything more than a shirt, I think it does a fantastic job at setting an outfit apart from the rest.
Jackets for hotter months can be distilled very simply into two key considerations, material and colour choice. I hope that this article may inspire or help those of you out there who may have shied away from jackets altogether, and will hopefully serve as some inspiration.
When it comes to colours, I would like to think that this is fairly self-explanatory. Blacks and deep navies should be put into hibernation, save for a few exceptions of course. For me, I would certainly lean towards light blues, creams, tobacco colours and even pink if you are brave enough! Personally, summer weather makes me want to dress in summer colours, and a cream or light tobacco is a fantastic choice. Whether it be for a day-to-day use, or a summer event such as Henley Regatta or Wimbledon, or a summer party of wedding, I think adding a splash of summer colour is a perfect choice to pair with a more neutral light trouser.
Whilst the lighter blue or tobacco may feel like a comfortable choice, I would strongly advice opting for a light tobacco brown, or if you are feeling brave enough, a splash of pink or light blue is a perfect option.
Materials, again, I feel is fairly easy. Summer weather is all about comfort and breathability. With that in mind, the obvious picks here for me are linen and seersucker. Linen, I find, can be infinitely versatile, and is the perfect material for a jacket that may spend some time slung over a shoulder, folded up over an arm, or sat on the back of a chair. It allows you the freedom to go for a formal jacket style, like a double-breasted wide lapel, but the crinkly, creased look that linen naturally has, makes it a perfect jacket to wear over a white t-shirt or linen shirt. Seersucker offers the same benefits, and surprisingly is not a jacket material that I see a lot of people adopting. Seersucker is slightly thicker than linen, and whilst it can certainly be worn for more of the year than linen, is incredibly breathable. Again, another fantastic partner to a pair of light wash jeans and brown suede loafers.
If you are someone who has a plentiful wardrobe of winter suits and jackets, and struggles with comfortable summer options, or are looking for a perfect lighter suit or jacket for summer events, I hope that this article has piqued your interest. I would strongly advise to add a double-breasted seersucker or linen jacket to your rotation. For me, I do not think you can go far wrong with either of the two options below. A blue and white pinstripe seersucker suit is just a fantastic summer option, or a light tobacco brown double-breasted jacket can truly elevate your summer wardrobe. You can remain comfortable and relaxed, with just a dash of formal elegance. What's not to love?
Felix Arnold