When the temperatures rise and you need to dress up, reach for something made of the breeziest fabric.
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The sun is shining, the humidity is unbearable, and you’re sweating just standing. All you want to do is reach for shorts, sandals, and the lightest top in your drawer. But there’s an event to attend, a scenario that requires you to dress up. It could be a wedding, a boardroom meeting, or an IRL job interview. You can’t get away with anything less than a two-piece. It’s time for a linen suit.
Linen—of all the standard materials used in suiting—is the lightest, the most breathable. The tradeoff being linen, in its purest form, is far less structured than other fabrics. That could work if the event at hand is casual. But if you really want to look distinguished, reach for a cut that’s mixed with cotton, silk, or even wool. A suit with these blends will hold its shape and offer the airiness you’re looking for. It’s what linen does best. We have all these options (plus a few surprises) below ready to give you some ventilation in the sweltering summer heat no matter the occasion.
Best Linen Suit for Weddings
J.Crew Ludlow Slim-Fit Suit Jacket
Best Linen Suit for Weddings
J.Crew Ludlow Slim-Fit Suit Jacket
Wedding season is rounding the corner, and if the event is outdoors and the dress code calls for black tie optional, semiformal, cocktail, beach formal, or dressy casual, J.Crew's iconic Ludlow suit—a style we endorse regularly—is as foolproof as it gets.
Best Versatile Linen Suit
Todd Snyder Italian Linen Sutton Suit
Best Versatile Linen Suit
Todd Snyder Italian Linen Sutton Suit
Todd Snyder knows how to do effortlessly chic, cool-guy clothes, and when it comes to a linen suit, its as if they have it down to a science. This charcoal number is a day-to-night look that'll never go out of style, and can be worn with any number of shirts underneath.
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It's in the name, really—this suit is super soft. Like, more so than other linen suits, which is saying a lot. Maybe it's because of the lined interior and 10o% linen interior. This one also comes with the jacket and pants together, so don't worry about multiple items in your cart.
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Best Linen Suit for Work
Ted Baker Onich Linen Blazer
Best Linen Suit for Work
Ted Baker Onich Linen Blazer
There are still many professions that mandate a two-piece suit. Anything less just simply doesn't cut it, no matter how hot the temperatures might get. For those in corporate environments, Ted Baker has a sleek linen suit in navy, which looks just as structured as the traditional wool styles.
Best Tailored Linen Suit
Polo Ralph Lauren Soft Slub Linen Suit Jacket
Best Tailored Linen Suit
Polo Ralph Lauren Soft Slub Linen Suit Jacket
If you've watched Gosford Park, Downton Abbey, or anything created by Julian Fellowes, you know that going to the countryside is an event. The men in these movies and shows never disappoint with their fits, wearing suits that are richly textured, expertly tailored, and reflect their sprawling woodland estates. Capturing all of this is this beautiful linen suit from Ralph Lauren.
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Best Linen Suit for Summer
Banana Republic Nolan Linen Suit Jacket
Best Linen Suit for Summer
Banana Republic Nolan Linen Suit Jacket
Banana Republic is a master at offering styles that are equal parts disheveled (in the best sense) and distinguished, the kinds of pieces that have character and won't annihilate your bank account. This linen suit is a prime example.
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Best Go-To Linen Suit
Reiss Single Breasted Linen Blazer
Best Go-To Linen Suit
Reiss Single Breasted Linen Blazer
Sometimes, you just need a basic suit—in summer, pray that its linen. Reiss has one that's classy and timeless, and you can (and should) even mix and match the pieces to get maximum wear with your other clothes.
Best Casual Linen Suit
Nautica Modern-Fit Cotton/Linen Blend Suit
Best Casual Linen Suit
Nautica Modern-Fit Cotton/Linen Blend Suit
It's summer—go bold! A pop of color never hurt anybody, and this breezy, blue linen suit was basically made for beach weddings, cocktail hour, boat parties, and an Aperol spritz in-hand.
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Most Laidback Linen Suit
Alex Mill Mercer Linen Blazer
Most Laidback Linen Suit
Alex Mill Mercer Linen Blazer
If you're not ready to squeeze into a slim-fit suit just yet, Alex Mill has a looser option. The two-piece is less structured and gives off a laidback vibe, but still looks presentable to wear out and about.
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This 100% linen suit in gorgeous green is an eye-catcher for sure—pair with a crisp shirt and skinny tie (and, of course, the matching pants below) and you're sure to secure Most Stylish Guy At the Function status.