Let’s face it, most of us don’t have a wide selection of suits hanging around in our wardrobe, and generally don’t know too much about the options available when it comes to formal attire, so when the time comes to choosing your groom attire, chances are you’re familiar with the dilemma – what am I supposed to wear?

First things first – here are a few things to consider before going suit shopping.

VENUE

If the summer wedding is being held in Malta or at an exotic destination with a similarly hot climate, your suit of choice will need to be lightweight and breathable. This will affect the cut (stay away from three-piece varieties) and fabric (cotton and linen work best). You’ll also need to consider the type of venue and dress code – if it’s on the beach for example, a new trend is for the suit to feature tailored shorts instead of trousers, but we’d stay away from these if you’re going for a more formal event.

TIME

The earlier in the day it is, the hotter it’s likely to be, so it’s important to take the time of your wedding into consideration when planning your attire. If you’re planning a daytime event, you’ll have to contend with the hottest hours of sunshine, so definitely opt for a lightweight fabric, and swap out sweaty leather shoes with a breathable version in suede.

Now that you’ve got these primary elements in mind, we’ve prepared a few different options to help act as a guideline, whether you’re getting married in the city, garden or on the beach.

FORMAL AFFAIR

If your wedding is taking place within the walls of a grand hotel, palazzo or other formal setting, there’s a limit to how much you can play down your suit. We recommend a smart and traditional dress suit (albeit in cotton rather than wool), in a darker shade like navy. If you’re taking things outside but would still like to keep it formal, a cool hat, like a fedora, is a stylish way to help keep you cool.

COUNTRY STYLE

Meanwhile, if your wedding is taking outdoors in a garden or more rustic, casual setting, you’re allowed to give things a bit more of a casual slant and hence, enjoy a little more flexibility. We love the idea of a beige or sand suit that will look summery and smart all at the same time.

BEACH EVENT

Dressing appropriately for a wedding that’s taking place on the beach can be a bit tricky, but it really depends on your dress code. The ideal fabric for a beach wedding is linen, which will keep you cool and fresh while still looking as formal as you need it to. A recent addition to grooms’ wedding attire is suits featuring cropped trousers or tailored shorts which will also work a treat if you don’t mind baring your legs. Finally, when it comes to shoes, we’d recommend a smart pair of espadrilles or loafers.