The Celebrity Tux and Tails family has lived in Arizona for over 30 years and we realize how IMPORTANT it is to dress for the season. While wedding season is typically from October through May, that doesn't mean we don't still enjoy summer weddings here in the State. Most of the events tend to happen in Northern Arizona ( Sedona, Flagstaff, Prescott, etc) but there are some indoor venues in the Valley that make summer weddings attractive and affordable. If you're planning on having a summer wedding, there are a few things to consider when it comes to menswear.
Fabric
The fabric your suit or tux is made of is going to be the number one determining factor in your groom and groomsmen's comfort levels during a summer wedding. A 100% wool suit in a lightweight weave (super 100s-150s) is going to be FAR more comfortable than a poly-blended fabric. And, if you just balked at wearing wool in summer, let us explain. Wool suits-- especially those sold in Arizona-- aren't going to be heavy thick materials like the sandpaper wool menswear of the last century. Our popular premium suit options are usually a super 130s fabric that is actually very fine and soft to the touch. Natural fabrics like wool also breathe better in the Arizona heat, whereas man-made poly-anything fabrics will trap your body heat in and make you sweat even more. Always choose natural fabrics in the Arizona heat to maximize your comfort!
Color
We hear a lot from our summer weddings that they don't want black suits or tuxedos because it'll be too hot. While black fabric definitely heats up in the sunlight and is far less reflective than other colors, it's probably not the main reason we suggest shying away from black. You can get a black lightweight wool suit that will be more comfortable than a light grey suit of cheaper materials. Color should only really play into your menswear choice to align with the rest of the wedding party. Pick bright and light summer colors because you want those, not because you think it's the only option to stay cool.
P.S. We love light grey and tan summer looks, like this recent wedding photographed by Denise Marie Photography.
Skipping the Jacket
Another strategy to save on heat-- and cost-- is to skip the jacket entirely. Our couples definitely aren't wrong, it is cooler to not wear the jacket. However-- if your guys sweat a lot, like most who are concerned about the heat, sweat is going to show through just a shirt MUCH MUCH MUCH faster than if the guys have a jacket. The jacket will hide those sweat marks for pictures, and then the guys can quickly remove them for the rest of the reception! That said, it's totally up to our couples, and we offer the option to rent partial outfits (and have separates that can be purchased as well). We have over 120 suspenders colors if you'd like to sport that option and a wide variety of colors and patterns of full-back vests for your guys.
We do strongly suggest that the groom at least get a jacket for bridal portraits. We've never had a group return their rentals and say, "Man, I wish we didn't get those jackets!" We have however had people say, "I wish we had gotten the jacket just for a couple of pictures."
We also highly recommend not getting the jacket for the ringbearer's regardless of the time of year if they're under a certain age. If they don't regularly wear outerwear, jackets are usually strange and uncomfortable. Our ringbearer package is very popular and allows the kids to maximize comfort and cuteness year round!
Those are the biggest factors we think should play a role in determining the right summer menswear look, but if you have more questions, our specialists would be happy to answer them for you! If you're curious which suit we'd recommend for your party, set up a time to talk with our menswear experts.
Celebrity Tux and Tails is a family-owned and operated formalwear company located in Phoenix, Arizona. We specialize in suits and tuxedos for both men and women and offer a variety of options in rental, off-the-rack retail and custom-made attire. In addition to our stores in Tempe and Peoria, we offer full-service concierge across the state of Arizona. From free in-home consultations to delivery & pickup services, we are dedicated to making the formalwear process simple, affordable, and exceptional for our customers! Get the selection you want and the service you deserve!