The Rites of Spring: Heat and Humidity of Summer

As spring morphs into summer on the Gulf Coast, so will your wardrobe. From weddings and social events to faraway destinations, coastal road trips, or long beach weekends, it’s time to lighten it up. In my last column, I promised to explore the more esoteric aspects of men’s apparel, but I’ll save that for a future column. For now, let’s focus on navigating the hot and humid season ahead in relative comfort without sacrificing style.

Weddings and Social Events
Time to dress up, but not in your winter holiday favorites. Now it’s about suits and sport coats in tropical-weight wools, linens, silks, cottons, and blends. Think wool or silk combined with cotton or linen in lighter tones and patterns. Stripes, seersucker, checks, and plaids are spring staples. A tip for seersucker: it's now available in solids and checks, not just the traditional stripes from our grandfathers' era.

If wearing a sports coat, the trousers should contrast nicely. Darker colors up top and lighter ones on the bottom are the most flattering. Imagine the classic “yacht club” character: blue blazer over white trousers. Shirts in whites, pinks, and light blues, with stripes or gingham check patterns. Ties in fresh colors and light weaves, foulards, or stripes add a fun twist to these classics. Light-colored cotton or linen pocket squares in a harmonious color to the tie can add another twist to your spring looks. Bonus points if you have contrasting yet harmonious colors with the stripes: blue tie with yellow stripes.

Shoes in medium brown, tan, or chalk white suede can also lighten up the look. The spectator, a combination of tan and white, elevates any outfit if you want to make a bold statement. Unlined tassel or penny loafer styles with no-show socks are a classic style whether walking the streets of New Orleans or Rome.

Faraway Destinations

Similar options to the ones already mentioned, but less formal. I always bring a sports coat or blazer when traveling. If I’m flying, I wear it on the plane: less to pack, exudes old-school travel style, and you never know where you might end up on your adventure. A tie isn’t necessary, but the pocket square is still a good option. If you’re going somewhere hot, substitute for the short versions of the trousers discussed earlier.

If evenings are cool, a cashmere sweater keeps you cozy. Unlined loafers and drive-style moccasins are great choices. Pack some polo-style shirts and a pair of board shorts, and your vacation capsule wardrobe is complete.
A note on board shorts: The type of shorts you wear to surf or fish are not appropriate for a resort or hotel pool. Opt instead for a pair in cotton or fine nylon for something refined.

Coastal Road Trips and Long Beach Weekends

During spring and summer, most wardrobes feature ongoing elements of casual sophistication. You can put away your sports coat unless you plan on dinner at a fine dining restaurant. Polos and madras plaids are great, as well as T-shirts in solid colors with minimal graphics. Cutoff chinos are also a great way to remain casual and keep it stylish. Board shorts are the most casual option, but stay with solids or color blocks in a style that’s more fitted than baggy. For footwear, keep it classic with boat shoes, camp moccasins, canvas sneakers, simple leather sandals, or Havaianas flip-flops. Don’t forget to clip those toenails!

True style is more than just clothes: it’s how you carry and present yourself to the world. There are many articles discussing the diminishing standards of dress and manners in air travel: we’ve all heard the tropes. Style is about manners and enhancing any conversation you’re part of, and there is no better way to embody that than to dress smartly and put your best foot forward. Trust me, it will be appreciated.

Ciao for now...